Riverina

Stretching across the fertile plains of southern New South Wales, the Riverina is a sun-washed mosaic of vineyards, citrus orchards, and historic river towns. This is a place where the Murrumbidgee and Murray Rivers carve life into the landscape, and where you can taste the essence of Australia in a glass of wine, a wedge of cheese, or a bowl of pistachios. The region's food and wine scene is outstanding, with cellar doors, farmers' markets, and paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase the bounty of the land. Beyond the table, the Riverina offers quiet backroads, wetlands teeming with birdlife, and a deep sense of rural authenticity that rewards those who take the time to explore.

Highlights & What to See

• Wagga Wagga – The region's largest city, with a lively arts scene, the excellent Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, and the tranquil Botanic Gardens.
• Griffith – A proud Italian-heritage town surrounded by vineyards; visit the wineries of the Riverina Wine Region and the MIA (Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area) Museum.
• Deniliquin – A classic river town on the Edward River, known for its historic buildings, the Deniliquin Ute Muster, and superb birdwatching at nearby Werai Forest.
• Narrandera – A charming town with a beautifully preserved main street, the Narrandera Fisheries Centre, and the Fivebough Swamp for migratory birdwatching.
• Yarrawonga & Mulwala – Twin towns on the Murray River, offering water sports, golf, and the iconic Lake Mulwala drive-through tree.
• The Rock – A striking granite outcrop near Wagga Wagga with Aboriginal rock art and panoramic views from the summit.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate the Riverina's diversity, plan for at least three to four days. This allows you to base yourself in two or three towns—say Wagga Wagga, Griffith, and Deniliquin—and explore the wineries, river walks, and local produce trails at a relaxed pace. If you're on a road trip between Sydney and Melbourne, a two-day stopover is enough to sample the highlights, but you'll leave wanting more.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mungo National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site with the dramatic Walls of China and ancient Aboriginal history, about 2.5 hours west of Deniliquin.
• Murrumbidgee River Rail Trail – A cycling and walking trail from Wagga Wagga to Junee, passing through charming rural landscapes.
• Junee – A historic railway town with the excellent Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory and the eerie Junee Roundhouse.
• Corowa – A historic river town on the Murray, known for its Federation architecture and the Corowa Distillery.
• Lake Cargelligo – A peaceful outback lake town with fishing and birdwatching, about 2 hours north of Griffith.

Please check official sources for current details.