Berri, South Australia - Riverfront Walks, Lookouts & Laid-Back Riverland Living

Wander * Explore * Discover
Jun 24, 2023
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Berri, South Australia - Riverfront Walks, Lookouts & Laid-Back Riverland Living

Set on the banks of the mighty Murray River, Berri is a charming Riverland town that invites you to slow down and soak up riverside life. Located around 240 kilometres northeast of Adelaide, Berri is surrounded by more than 3,000 acres of vineyards and orchards, making it one of the Riverland’s most scenic and productive towns.

With peaceful riverfront walks, excellent dining, family-friendly attractions, and easy access to some of the region’s best natural sights, Berri is an ideal base for exploring the Riverland.

Life on the Murray River

The Murray River is the heart of Berri, gently winding its way past the town and shaping daily life here. The riverbanks are dotted with picnic areas, fishing spots, and camping areas, making it easy to spend time by the water. In the warmer months, the river comes alive with boating, kayaking, and water skiing, while cooler days are perfect for riverside strolls, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the calm, reflective waters.

Coffee by the River at River Jacks Café

When we visited Berri, our day began at River Jacks Café, a much-loved local spot nestled right on the banks of the Murray River. It’s the perfect place to relax with a coffee and a slice of homemade cake while watching the river drift by. With its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful setting, River Jacks is a lovely place to start the day before heading out to explore the town.

Berri Riverfront Walk & Cultural Stories

From the café, we wandered along the Berri Riverfront Walk, a scenic and informative trail that follows the river’s edge. One of the highlights is the striking mural beneath the Berri Bridge, which depicts the Ngurunderi Dreaming story — an important Aboriginal story that explains the creation of the Murray River.

Along the walk, you’ll also see a black granite sculpture engraved with birds and animals, created as a tribute to Jimmy James, Australia’s renowned Aboriginal tracker. Together, these features add depth and meaning to the walk, connecting visitors with the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Climb the Berri Lookout Tower

For a different perspective of the town, climb the Berri Lookout Tower, a former water tower that now serves as a viewing platform. Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, the tower stands 15.8 metres high and rewards visitors with sweeping views over the Berri township, surrounding vineyards, and the Murray River. It’s a short climb and well worth the effort, especially on a clear day.

Family Fun at Monash Adventure Park

Just a short drive from Berri is Monash Adventure Park, one of the Riverland’s most impressive playgrounds and a favourite with families. This award-winning park features leaning towers, rope and wave bridges, slides, swings, a giant maze, and interactive water play areas. Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the park has BBQ facilities, picnic areas, and free entry, making it an easy and enjoyable stop for visitors of all ages.

Scenic Walks at Wilabalangaloo Reserve

Another highlight near Berri is Wilabalangaloo Reserve, where we enjoyed a peaceful walk along the 1.5-kilometre Riverwalk. The trail winds beneath towering ochre-coloured sandstone cliffs that rise up to 30 metres above the river. At the lookout, you’re treated to stunning views across the Murray River — a perfect spot for photos and quiet moments surrounded by nature.

Dinner at the Mallee Fowl Restaurant

We finished our day with dinner at the Mallee Fowl Restaurant, one of the Riverland’s most unique dining experiences. Set on 24 acres of bushland, just a short drive from Berri, this quirky, Australian-themed restaurant is known for its excellent steaks and extensive selection of South Australian wines. With its eclectic décor, relaxed country atmosphere, and long-standing reputation, the Mallee Fowl is a memorable place to enjoy a meal and end a day of exploring.

Why Visit Berri?

With its beautiful river setting, relaxed pace, and easy access to Riverland attractions, Berri is a town that captures the essence of the Murray River lifestyle. Whether you’re enjoying coffee by the water, learning about Aboriginal heritage, climbing lookout towers, or exploring nearby reserves and attractions, Berri offers a rewarding mix of nature, culture, and country hospitality. It’s the kind of place where time slows down — and that’s exactly what makes it special.