Located in southwestern NSW, on the Murray River, Mildura is a vibrant regional town and the ideal base for exploring many of NSW’s most famous landmarks – from the national park where Mungo Man and Mungo Lady were found, to the shimmering Pink Salt Lakes, to the 12-metre-high dunes of Perry Sandhills.
Here’s your guide to the best things to do in and around Mildura.
CRUISE THE MIGHTY MURRAY RIVER
There’s no better way to start your weekend than with a trip down the mighty Murray River aboard a Mildura Paddle Steamer. The two-hour cruise takes you from the heart of Mildura upstream, passing through beautiful countryside. Along the way, you’ll learn all about the river system and the history of paddle steamers.
Another option is the evening dinner cruise, which will have you watching the sun set over the water while feasting on a spit roast carvery.
EXPLORE ABORIGINAL HISTORY, PINK SALT LAKES AND ABUNDANT BIRDLIFE
Once you’ve explored the river by boat, it’ll be time to get out and about in the area’s many national parks.
Head to World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park, where Mungo Man and Mungo Lady – the remains of people who lived 42,000 years ago – were found. You can explore Aboriginal history, stroll through spectacular red dirt landscapes and picnic or camp by Lake Mungo.
Another must-see are the pink lakes of Murray-Sunset National Park. These vast, spectacular water bodies shift with the light – from bright white to deep pink. Visit at sunset for the prettiest views, and don’t forget your camera.
To experience the unique bushland of Mildura and surrounds, take a spin to Hattah-Kulkyne National Park. Here, you’ll find native pine forests, loads of bird life and the Hattah Lakes, formed by tributaries of the Murray River.
DIVE INTO LOCAL HERITAGE
Mildura has a fascinating history. In the 1800s, farmers transformed its arid landscape into a wonderland of irrigation, where orange orchards now thrive. Find out how on The Chaffey Trail, which takes you on a journey through 12 important sites, bringing together heritage buildings, historical events and colourful personalities.
Other interesting historical sites include the Rio Vista, a magnificent Queen Anne-style mansion built in the 1890s; Mildura Holden Museum, where you can experience the development of Australia’s favourite car, from the first to the last model built; and the charming country town of Wentworth, which is 30 minutes’ drive from Mildura. It’s also home to the breathtaking Perry Sandhills, a series of 12-metre high sand dunes over 400 acres.
SIP WINE AND SAMPLE ORANGES
Vineyards have been growing around Mildura since 1909. One of the oldest and biggest vineyards is that belonging to Trentham Estate. Since 1988, it’s also operated as a winery, cellar door and restaurant. Swing by to sample your way through the range, while grazing on an outdoor platter, or settle in for lunch overlooking the Murray River.
Once you’ve had your fill of grapes, make tracks to Orange World, a 50-acre orchard dedicated to all things citrus. Here, you can take a tour on a tractor train, sample fruit and, depending on the season, experience the heady scent of orange blossoms or watch the orange pickers at work. There’s also an orange-inspired shop, selling chocolate-coated dried oranges, orange cake, freshly squeezed orange juice and citrus peelers.
GETTING TO MILDURA
Mildura is five hours’ drive northwest of Melbourne and 11 hours’ drive southwest of Sydney.
If you don’t feel like spending too many hours behind the wheel, you can fly to Mildura Airport and jump straight into a SIXT car rental.
