48 hours in the Riverina

If you’re travelling between Melbourne and Sydney along the Hume Highway, why not break your journey with 48 hours in the Riverina. It’s at almost the exact midpoint of your journey, providing the perfect excuse for a detour. Or make it a weekend trip! It’s just a few hour’s drive from ACT and regional flights from Melbourne and Sydney will get you to Wagga Wagga in around an hour. Then pick up a hire car and set off on an adventure.

Here’s what we would do with 48 hours in the Riverina.

DAY 1 (AM): Explore the delights of Wagga Wagga.

Wagga Wagga has indoor and outdoor attractions to suit all types of visitors. If you enjoy browsing art galleries and museums, the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery is well worth a look as it’s home to the National Art Glass Gallery. Or immerse yourself in local history at the Museum of the Riverina. Alternatively, enjoy the morning strolling through the Botanic Gardens. Along with stunning floral displays you’ll find a zoo and aviary, a model railway and an adventure playground and picnic area, which makes it a great activity for families.

DAY 1 (PM): Hit the Canola Trail

Just a short drive from Wagga Wagga, the Canola Trail is a triangular route that winds between Junee, Temora and Coolamon. This idyllic country drives takes you past vast canola fields that resemble a sea of gold in August and September each year. The entire loop takes just over two hours, so you have plenty of time to stop and explore charming towns and villages along the way.

Stock up on treats for the journey at Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory. Look out for a bronze stature of Boofhead the Dog at the Rail Station in Temora. It’s part of the Riverina Outdoor Art Trail which spans key towns around the region. Pick up some savoury snacks at Coolamon Cheese Co before a final stop at the Charles Sturt Winery on the way back to Wagga Wagga. That’s your evening drinks and nibbles sorted!

DAY 2 (AM): Outdoor Art & Koalas

Another day, another stunning country drive. This time on the Riverina Outdoor Art Trail. Snap pics at each location to create a memorable photo journal of your day. There are plenty to choose from but among the most impressive are the water tower murals in Milbrulong, Lockhart and Narrandera. Narrandera is also an ideal stop for a picnic lunch as it has a nature reserve that’s home to 200 koalas. Wander through the reserve to see how many you can spot.

DAY 2 (PM): Art Deco delights & ‘Big’ things

Next stop on this scenic loop is Leeton, where you’ll find Art Deco buildings, including the Roxy Theatre, which dates back to the 1930s. For those that love to tick ‘big’ things off their list, Barellan should be your next stop. It’s home to a 13-metre tennis racquet, commemorating Evonne Goolagong’s association with the town. If you’ve been enjoying the art trail continue on to Weethalle to see a huge painted silo. Or simply head back south to Wagga Wagga to reflect on all you’ve seen.

Set right on the riverfront, Ingenia Holidays Wagga Wagga offers a peaceful base from which to explore the wonders of the Riverina. Book your stay today.