Mulwala

On the shimmering shores of Lake Mulwala, this twin town with Yarrawonga (just across the Murray River in Victoria) is a laid-back water-lover's paradise. The lake – actually a wide, tree-studded section of the Murray – is the star, ringed by walking paths, picnic spots, and a flotilla of houseboats. Mulwala feels like a secret handshake between river life and country hospitality, where the biggest decision is whether to fish, float, or feast on a lakeside steak.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Mulwala Walk & Lookout – A gentle 2 km loop along the foreshore offers killer views of the lake and the famous ghost gums that rise from the water. Best at sunrise when the water turns pink.
• Mulwala Water Ski Club – Even if you're not on skis, the club's terrace is prime real estate for a cold beer and a plate of salt-and-pepper squid while watching the action on the water.
• Houseboat Hire – The quintessential Murray River experience: pilot your own floating home for a day or a week, tying up at secluded banks to swim and fish.
• Murray River Fishing – Cast a line for Murray cod and golden perch from the banks, jetties, or a tinny. Local tackle shops know the best spots.
• Yarrawonga Mulwala Pioneer Museum – Housed in a 1910 school building, this small but heartfelt museum traces the region's riverboat, farming, and wartime history.
• Lakeside Golf & Bowls Club – A friendly 9-hole golf course with lake views, plus lawn bowls for a quintessential country afternoon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give Mulwala at least two days to properly slow down. One day for a houseboat outing or a kayak paddle around the lake's drowned forests, another for a relaxed explore of the town's cafes, a round of golf, and a sunset dinner by the water. If you're just passing through, a couple of hours for a walk and a coffee is enough to catch the vibe – but you'll likely want to stay longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Rutherglen – 20 minutes south, this historic wine region is famous for its fortified wines and cellar doors with serious character.
• Chiltern – 25 minutes east, a gold-rush-era town with beautifully preserved 19th-century streets and the Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park.
• Wangaratta – 40 minutes south, the gateway to the High Country, with a vibrant arts scene and the Ovens River trails.
• Corowa – 30 minutes west, another Murray River town with a federation-era main street and the Corowa Distillery.
• Woomargama National Park – 45 minutes north, a rugged bushwalking and birdwatching escape with granite outcrops and wildflowers.

Please check official sources for current details.