Embarking on the Melbourne to Murray River road trip is an adventure that promises breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences.
The best things to do in Cobram for families and tourists
Explore family-friendly Cobram, an ideal Murray River destination for a family holiday or a weekend getaway in Victoria. Here are the best things to do in the area.
Cobram might only be three hours drive from Melbourne, but the laid-back, riverine lifestyle feels like a world away. Located in Victoria’s “sun country”, Cobram is a known haunt for families wanting to make the most of the Murray River, keen golfers, history buffs and those searching for an authentic bush getaway without forgoing creature comforts.
No matter what kind of traveller you are, RACV Cobram Resort is a great place to set up camp in Cobram. The resort caters to grey nomads through to families, with a 4.5-star caravan park plus self-contained cabins and fully equipped apartments that can sleep up to six people. It’s also located within walking distance of some of Cobram’s top river beaches.
Best things to do in Cobram
Cactus Country
Cactus Country is Victoria’s ode to all plants succulent and spiky. The 12-acre gardens overflow with thousands of cacti and succulents from Mexico, Argentina and the African continent. Stop by the Mexican restaurant for lunch or a cactus ice cream while the gift shop is stocked with live cacti through to cactus-themed gifts (like cactus honey).
Murray River Paddlesteamers
Explore the Murray River like they did back in the olden days on a paddlesteamer. These cruises offer a leisurely and historic way to see the river and the surrounding bushland. Choose a scenic cruise or opt for a luxurious trip to a winery for lunch and wine tastings.
Golf and mini golf
The Murray region is a great destination for golfers, with the Cobram-Barooga Golf Club offering unlimited daily golf. If the weather is inclement, Barooga Sports Club (better known as Sporties) has four state-of-the-art sports simulators as well as a mini golf course the whole family can enjoy.
Quinns Island
This inland island is a haven for twitchers thanks to the waterbirds that call it home. Even if you’re not into bird watching Quinns Island is a great destination for walks with a 3.2km track located on the island, as well as beaches.
Rich Glen olive estate
This family-run olive farm was established in 1997 and these days welcomes guests through the doors of its Provedore store to shop a huge range of local artisan products – including the estate’s own olive oils of course. The olives grown by Rich Glen are also turned into cosmetics, candles and aromatic sprays.
Thompsons beach
Cobram locals claim that Thompsons Beach is the biggest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. While that hasn’t been verified, it’s true that the beach is certainly a great destination for picnics and outdoor recreation, with a playground, free electric barbecues and opportunities for swimming and beach sports.
Lunch is served with a side of history at Byramine Homestead in Burramine. Photo: Visit Victoria.
Where to eat in Cobram
The Cobram Hotel
If you’re looking for a pub in Cobram, you can’t go past the Cobram Hotel. Expect hearty fare and cold beers in the bistro, including several different variations on the classic chicken parma.
The Beach Cobram
Stop in for a coffee, a cake and maybe even some koala spotting when you visit this café by Thompsons Beach. The café is open Thursday to Sunday from 8am to 4pm and doubles as a tourist information point for the region.
The Big Strawberry
You can’t miss this Koonoomoo attraction thanks to the eponymous big strawberry out the front. The family-friendly attraction is open seven days a week with pick-your-own berry season running twice a year (roughly April-July and October-January). Even in the off season it’s worth visiting to dine on berry-flavoured treats or to stock up on jams, relishes, wines and liqueurs.
Byramine Homestead
This homestead is recognised by the National Trust thanks to its unusual octagonal rooms, as well as the fact it was built by Hamilton Hume – that is, the colonial explorer for whom the Hume Highway is named. In addition to running historical tours, Byramine also has an on-site brewery and cidery plus a restaurant serving light meals and Devonshire teas.