The top 10 things to do in Berri, South Australia

Berri, a small town in the Riverland region of South Australia, is full of surprises. Getting its name from the local Aboriginal term ‘bery bery’, meaning bend in the river, Berri is not only a riverside town, but it is surrounded by 3000 hectares of vineyards and has a friendly local vibe. With the meandering Murray River, endless horizons of orange earth and luscious vineyard views all on its doorstep, it’s about time you head over to Berri for a weekend escape.

It might be a few hours out the way, but it should certainly be on your to-do list. Check in to the Berri Hotel to make the drive worth it. The friendly, modern hotel has a whole range of rooms – from basic to modern – to suit different kinds of tourists, travellers and weekend-trippers. Otherwise, relax and unwind at the Big River Golf and Country Club, where as well as get a good rest, you can play some golf or take advantage of the outdoor swimming pool.

So, just in case you need some getaway inspiration, here are the best things to do in Berri South Australia.

1. Canoe or kayak on the Murray River

The Murray River provides guests with the ultimate rural Australian experience. Remarkable networks of waterways that meander through national parks make for the perfect place to hire a kayak or a canoe. Drop into Canoe Adventure and get up close and personal with nature as you float down stream.

2. Try out one of the local restaurants in Berri

Dine at a cosy local pub, a little riverbank cafe or one of the hearty restaurants in Berri. Try the iconic Mallee Fowl to indulge in some Aussie country style dishes, or opt for the authentic Thai menu. For a more central option, head to the Berri Hotel Bistro for some traditional pub classics in a modern dining area. If you’re not hungry, drop into the friendly bistro for an afternoon beer and mingle with the locals here. Opt for the Tavern, which with a newly renovated outdoor deck overlooking the Golf Course, is the perfect setting for a bistro style lunch or dinner. The laid back vibes and kids play area makes the Tavern one of the most family friendly restaurants in Berri.

 

3. Visit the water tower lookout 

This old water tower, converted into a lookout, offers visitors the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the Riverlands from 16-metres up. Head up the stairs just before sunset to get the best views. 

4. Drop in to Bella Lavender Estate 

Make sure you drop into Bella Lavender Estate during your weekend escape. Walk amongst fragrant lavender rows, grab a coffee from the cafe and browse the local products. In the shop you’ll find jams and olive oil as well as numerous lavender products. There’s also an option to play mini-golf!

 

5. Take a riverfront walk 

Walk along the Berri Historic Riverfront Walk, passing lots of historic landmarks and points of interest such as a war memorial and an old ferry landing. Stroll along the riverside at your own pace; the walk is only 1.4 kilometres.

6.  Taste some local Berri wine 

Located in the heart of the Riverland region, it’s natural that Berri has a lot of wine to offer. To be exact, the largest of wineries in Berri produces up to 200,000 tonnes of wine each year, whilst the smallest winery produces about 60 tonnes. The surrounding wineries in Berri function on a huge, industrial scale. Berri Estate Winery has been an integral part of the town’s history since 1918. However, more recently the wine industry in Berri has diversified. Smaller, innovative, boutique wineries, specialising in small batches and wider varieties are now common. Drop into Selena Estate or 919 Wines to chat with locals and have a taste of the local crisp whites and moorish reds. 

7. Visit Murray River National Park

Just a short drive away, you’ll find Murray River National Park. The combination of the red earth and winding river make for a stunning location to take a hike. Wetlands alive with aquatic bird species make the national park ideal for bird watching.

 

8. Enjoy Monash Adventure Park

Take the kids to Monash Adventure Park and you’ll end up having some fun too. Plus, theres mini basketball, free electric barbecues and picnic facilities as well as a paddleboat kiosk so that you can paddle around in the water. 

9. Take a boat ride on the Murray River 

Bright, sunburnt orange riverbanks and tranquil landscapes make the Murray River totally relaxing. Take a boat down the river for the full immersive experience. Hop onto a short two hour river cruise, or be the captain of your own boat. Either way, sit back and enjoy this quintessentially Australian scenery with family or friends. This has to be one of the most leisurely of things to do in Berri!

10. Go to the Berri Farmers Market 

Head over to the farmers market on Saturday between 7.30 and 11.30am to pick up some delectable souvenirs from your trip to Berri. You’ll find an abundance of olives, honey, olive oil, eggs and plenty of fruit and vegetables.

Book your stay in Berri South Australia

Heading to Berri this year? We have some hotel recommendations ideal for a quick weekend away.

Do you enjoy playing golf? Prefer spacious accommodation on the edge of town? Excited by the idea of evening drinks overlooking the golf course? Click here to discover Big River Golf and Country Club.

Or would you prefer a central Berri location? Is your ideal hotel in the town but also close to the river? Click here to find a room at the Berri Hotel.

Looking for more information about Berri South Australia?

For more information about things to do, places to eat, wineries to visit and much more in Berri and the Riverland, check out our Ultimate Guide to Berri.