The ultimate Murray River road trip guide

Caravan and camping holidays on the Murray River

The Murray River is a favourite destination for caravanners and campers, with caravan parks dotted along the river.

RACV Cobram is a 4.5-caravan park located roughly 1km from the Murray River, with 58 powered sites for caravans or motorhomes, including eight sites with private bathroom facilities.

Caravan and camping guests at RACV Cobram also have access to shared kitchen and laundry facilities, barbecues, shared amenities (including accessible and children’s bathrooms), games room, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre and playground. Cabins are also available.

If you’re new to caravanning, learn how to avoid common caravan mistakes, caravan park etiquette, and how to reduce your risk of caravan theft.

Where to stop on a Melbourne to Murray River road trip

Melbourne to Macedon

• Distance: 60km
• Time: 1 hour
• Because: it has a famous landmark and stunning autumn leaves

At just an hour into your road trip, you’ll reach the Macedon Ranges, an elevated region at the foothills of the Great Dividing Range. Filled with wineries, gardens, historic villages and artisanal shops, the quaint area has a calendar full of monthly events, festival and attractions to enjoy during the calendar year.

Visit the iconic Hanging Rock reserve (you can even do this on an llama-led tour), take in some stunning views during the autumn season, or simply stroll the charming villages and markets before heading back in the car for your next stop.

Macedon to Daylesford

• Distance: 50km
• Time: 40 minutes
• Because: it's Victoria's spa country

About 40 minutes down the road is the spa town of Daylesford, known for its mineral springs, lakeside dining, dedication to the arts and antiques, and stunning gardens.

While there’s plenty to do in Daylesford that could keep you occupied for days, check out the Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm for stunning floral views; have a walk, cycle or picnic around Lake Daylesford; stroll down the unique treasure trove of shops on Vincent Street; and soak in the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa before heading onto your next destination.

If you want to explore the broader region, consider a stay nearby RACV Goldfields Resort in Creswick.

RACV Members save on entry to Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa.

Daylesford to Bendigo

• Distance: 75km
• Time: 1 hour 
• Because: it's a gold mine of history, food and art

Another hour’s drive from Daylesford is the large regional town of Bendigo.

Famed for its links to the gold rush, the city has since become known for its thriving arts scene (particularly pottery), and renowned gallery that has showcased works from Elvis to Marilyn Monroe. It's community markets are also a drawcard, swith fresh produce and locally made crafts.

Take a tour on the Vintage Talking Tram before stopping for lunch at the Rifle Brigage Hotel, or have a picnic with your market goods near Lake Weerona. Pick up some local ceramics, and then get ready for your next destination.

Bendigo to Echuca

• Distance: 90km
• Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
• Because: you want to hop aboard a paddlesteamer

Another hour and you've reached the border of northern Victoria, Echuca. Much like the main Murray crossing towns of Albury-Wodonga, Echuca is often referred to as Echuca-Moama, in reference to the smaller town of Moama across the river. 

Echuca is a historic port town that offers a glimpse into Australia's rich riverboat heritage and is a  popular destination for caravan or camping holidays.

Take a historic paddle-steamer cruise (there's even a lunch and winery cruise option); visit the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre; and indulge in some delicious local cuisine on the town's main High Street before getting to your final stop.

Echuca to Cobram

• Distance: 100km
• Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes 
• Because: it's a great base to explore the Murray River

Your road trip culminates an hour later at RACV Cobram Resort, a hidden gem nestled on the banks of the Murray River. You can choose to stay in the onsite cabin accommodation, or bring your own caravan and set up shop.

Relax in the resort accommodation, indulge in a round of golf, and unwind with a meal or drink at the poolside cafe. 

If you’re bringing the kids, keep them entertained with a dedicated games room, outdoor playground, tennis and basketball courts, pool, BMX tracks, and onsite dining.

RACV Members save at RACV Resorts across Australia.

Murray River activities

During your stay, take in all the Murray River region has to offer. Explore our family-friendly guide to the Cobram area including attractions, experiences and great eats; take in the beaches, parks and natural scenery,  or discover some great hikes and trails around the riverside area. 

Where to stop on the way home

Cobram to Shepparton

• Distance: 60km
• Time: 50 minutes 
• Because: it has moooving art and moving machines

First stop on your return journey is the regional town of Shepparton. Have fun spotting the 'Moooving Art' cow sculptures around the area (a nod to its dairy farming industry), before indulging your sweet tooth at the Big Strawberry, part of Australia’s many Big Things.

Have a browse through the many vintage shops in the area, take a wander through the Museum of Vehicle Evolution, or if it’s after noon, stop in for a lager at the Shepparton Brewery.

Shepparton to Nagambie

• Distance: 50km
• Time: 40 minutes 
• Because: it's a great lunch stop by the river

Forty minutes down the Goulburn Valley Freeway you’ll reach Nagambie, a riverside town that makes up part of Victoria’s stunning High Country.

Offering a range of experiences from lakeside activities to cellar doors and delicious baked goods, take the time for lunch in the Goulburn Valley.

Stop in for a meal made from locally sourced-ingredients at Eighteen Sixty, an Italian venue specialising in authentic food and hospitable experiences, or grab some pub classics at the Nagambie Brewery and Distillery to finish off your time in the region. 

Nagambie to Yarra Glen

• Distance: 120km
• Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes 
• Because: it's a gourmet paradise

There's no need to hurry back to Melbourne. If you have time, visit the fabulous Yarra Glen winery region.

Enjoy a luxurious lunch at the Domaine Chandon winery, or if you’re with the kids, perhaps a ride on the famed Yarra Valley Railway or visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery. Gin lovers can try a cocktail workshop or G&T tasting at Four Pillars or, for a truly eye-opening experience, book a sunrise balloon flight over the valley.

Melbourne is just an hour from Yarra Glen, but if you're too tired, a stay at RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort will refresh you before the last leg home.