Mildura

Quick facts

• Population approximately 25,000
• 557 kilometres north-west of Melbourne
• Vibrant oasis set on the Murray River
• Renowned for fine food and wine, and home of restauranteur Stefano de Pieri
• Mungo National Park.

Mildura is a charming oasis by the Murray River. The area is often referred to as the Mediterranean in the outback, with its picturesque citrus groves and vineyards, endless sunshine and the cosmopolitan feel of the city.

Thanks to Stefano de Pieri’s ‘Gondola on the Murray’ TV series and cookbooks, the town has also developed a world-famous reputation for good food and the quality and diversity of its produce and eateries. ‘Foodies’ flock to Stefano’s award-winning restaurant to enjoy its atmospheric cellar setting, the seasonal menu of the Murray outback’s best produce and the exquisite culinary art of Stefano De Pieri.

The Murray River is also a major draw and a great destination for a water-based holiday. Captain your own houseboat visiting wineries and golf courses along the river, enjoy a cruise on an historic old paddle steamer, paddle a canoe, swim, water ski or soak up the sun on a river beach.

Beyond the lush, green countryside of the riverbanks and irrigation areas stretches the Australian outback. Explore the sand dunes of Mungo National Park in the World Heritage Listed Willandra Lakes, a sublime, ancient environment containing some of Australia’s most significant Aboriginal sites or the Mallee with its abundant wildlife, diverse flora, rugged outback scenery and striking sunsets. If you are an adventurous explorer, set out on an expedition to Mungo or Mallee National Parks like Hattah-Kulkyne and Murray-Sunset. Pack a picnic, grab a camera and travel along tracks in your own vehicle, or be guided by one of the area's experienced tour operators.

Activities and attractions

• Sample the vast array of fresh food and wonderful wine at local wineries, farm gates, markets and restaurants
• For a memorable experience in fine dining, try Stefano’s award-winning restaurant in the cellars of the Mildura Grand Hotel
• Cruise along the Murray River on an historic paddle steamer, paddle a canoe in the billabongs, swim, water ski or spend a few days exploring the river on a houseboat
• Play a round of golf on one of the many picturesque golf courses in the region
• Visit the Mildura Arts Centre and wander through its sculpture park, museum, theatre and gallery containing outstanding artworks from artists such as Sir William Orpen, Sir Frank Branqwyn and Edgar Degas
• Follow the Chaffey Trail past the Rio Vista mansion built in 1889 by W.B. Chaffey, the National Trust-classified Psyche Bend Pump Station and the historic Wentworth Wharf
• Head out into one of the region’s National Parks and explore the sand dunes and desert plains of the outback 
• Visit Mungo National Park with an Aboriginal guide and gain a unique insight into the Aboriginal dreamtime heritage
• Take an early morning hot-air balloon flight and enjoy spectacular views over the patchwork of vineyards and winding Murray River  
• Try your hand at go-karting or rollerskating.

Major Events

• Mildura Wentworth Arts Festival – March
• Mildura Racing Cup Carnival – May
• Mildura Country Music Festival – September/October
• Mildura Jazz, Food & Wine Festival – November
• Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show – November

How to get there
Mildura is approximately 5.5 hours from Melbourne along the Sunraysia, Calder and Murray Valley highways. A number of regional airlines service Mildura from Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney. Flying time is approximately one hour. Coach travel and train links are also available from major cities.