Things you can only do in the Murray region

The Murray region is brimming with jawdropping landscapes –from lush riverbeds fringed by red gum forests to the stunning red dirt formations of the close-by deserts. Step onto Yorta Yorta country and explore the world's largest red river gum forest at Barmah National Park. If you're lucky you'll spot some of the area's distinct wildlife like goannas and eastern grey kangaroos and get to roam through ancient flood plains. You can even pitch a tent on the river itself in the stunning Ulupna Island beach camping area. Head down the river a bit and find Red Cliffs, a cute town known for its horticultural history and namesake 70 metre cliffs  that plunge into the Murray and are a striking colour any time of the day. Take a bit of a longer trek into NSW and be rewarded by the splendour of the Mungo National Park. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, this magical place is significant to Ngyiampaa, Mutthi Mutthi and Southern Paakantyi people.

The Murray has a temperate climate, rolling freshwater filled with fish and a booming culinary scene. Make a booking at one of the areas many farm-to-table experiences, boutique bistros and elevated country pubs and you'll be met with memorable meals galore. Try Miss Amelie, a fine dine-leaning restaurant in the historic Wodonga railway station building. Settle in with a two-course or three-course tasting menu or go for the six-course degustation with matching wines for contemporary spins on classic dishes from chef and owner David Kapay. Stefanos has been supplying Mildura with Italian classics and housemade wine since 1991 and works as an elegant cellar door, providore and bistro today. For some pub classics with local produce and flair nab a table at Stock & Barrel at Sebel Yarrawonga. You'll get to try river-fresh Murray cod, pizzas fresh from the pizza oven, carefully curated charcuterie and more.

In colonial times the Murray river was a very active trade route with puffing paddlesteamers supplying the goods. Today you can take a joyride on one of the paddlesteamers and cruise past the world-heritage wetlands aboard a slice of history. Echuca (from a Yorta Yorta word meaning "meeting of the waters") was a major port in the river transport days and is your place to be when procuring a cruise on one of the paddleboat beauties. You can also get spooky at the Port After Dark experience and be guided by lantern through the ghostly tales and happenings of the historically-rich area. For a spot of the spectacular head to the Pioneer Settlement for the enchanting Heartbeat of the Murray sound and laser show. A family-friendly day out at the recreation town interacting with folk in period costumes capped off with a world-class laser show that interacts with the natural majesty of the Murray.

Engage with the rich cultural history of the Murray region and be rewarded with cutting-edge art, quirky artefacts and world-class stages. Start at the very comprehensive Mildura Arts Centre, which combines a 500 seat theatre with an expansive gallery space including a stunning historic building and gardens. Pick a day for your visit and you may encounter an international comedian, live music or a thought-provoking painting exhibition. Across the river in NSW you'll find the swish Museum of Modern Art Albury packed with rotating contemporary exhibitions and a heft collection the gallery has been building since 1947. For a touch of the weird and wonderful bring the family along to the Depot Historic Vehicle and Memorabilia Collection in Deniliquin. Discover vehicular memorobilia, colourful displays and interactive fun galore.

It might seem silly to have a whole category about must-see bodies of water when one of Australia's most prominent and important river systems is right there, but there's more to explore along the mighty Murray. Firstly, there's a bounty of beautiful access points and beaches to explore along the river itself. Take a bushwalk along the river banks, wet a line and try to nab a Murray cod or splash in the cooling freshwater from one of the sandy shores. If watersports are more your vibe head to Lake Mulwala, a man-made wonder perfect for jet skiing, canoeing, wakeboarding and more. And if your out of office says "Gone Fishin'" you'll be ecstatic with the bountiful waters of Lake Hume where you can find golden perch, Murray cod, rainbow trout, brown trout, redfin and carp.

Once you've spent days exploring the beautiful Murray you're going to want to find some lodgings that match its charm. Spend three nights on the river with an overnight paddlesteamer cruise. The PS Emmylou is a traditional woodfire-powered vessel with luxe cabins to unwind in and elegant dining under the stars. For landlubbers there are a variety of chic places to stay. Take in the sunset from an infinity pool looking over Lake Mulwala at the Sebel Yarrawonga. And for artsy cool with a side of refined comfort book a stay at Circa 1928 Albury. The boutique hotel boasts an Andy Warhol suite with gorgeous stained glass windows and a well-stocked spa with hand-beaten copper bathtubs.