The Murray River region might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think Australian wine, but that’s part of its charm. Staying at BIG4 Barham Holiday Park puts you within easy reach of boutique cellar doors, award-winning wineries and some genuinely memorable tasting experiences – without the crowds you’ll find in more famous wine regions.
You don’t have to travel far for a great wine experience. Barham Vines is right here in town – the only commercial winery in the local area. What started as a hobby for two brothers and their partners has grown into something special. The Membrey family planted their first vines in 2012 and now produce small-batch Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo that’s well worth seeking out.
The cellar door is a converted shipping container set among river red gums and sprawling vines – relaxed, unpretentious and perfect for a lazy afternoon. They serve woodfired pizzas alongside their wines, making it an ideal spot to settle in with friends. The Tempranillo is a standout, earthy and fruity with hints of tobacco and spice, though it sells out quickly and is only available at the cellar door.
Head about 90 minutes southeast to Echuca-Moama and you’re in the heart of the Perricoota wine region. Granted official wine region status in 1999, this area produces excellent warm-climate varieties – think bold Shiraz, rich Cabernet Sauvignon, and crisp Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
St Anne’s Winery is a cornerstone of the region. The McLean family has been making award-winning wines here for over 40 years. Their cellar door was built using traditional rammed-earth construction and sits overlooking the vines and a small lake – it’s a beautiful spot. Free tastings are available seven days a week, no bookings required. Try their fortified wines if you’re a fan.
Morrisons Riverview Winery combines wine with one of the best lunch spots on the Murray. Perched right on the river’s edge, the first vines were planted in 1993 and the property now has 15 acres under vine producing Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet and Shiraz. Every seat in the restaurant has river views, and you might be joined by kangaroos grazing among the vines or kookaburras on the deck. There’s also an on-site brewery, 1710 Brew Co, if craft beer’s more your thing.
An hour northwest of Barham, the Swan Hill wine region offers a different experience. Andrew Peace Wines at Piangil (about 40km north of Swan Hill on the Murray Valley Highway) is one of Australia’s largest family-owned wineries. The Peace family has been growing grapes here since 1980, opening their winery in 1996. With over 40 wine styles to taste and beautiful grounds for a picnic, it’s well worth the drive. The cellar door is caravan-friendly with plenty of parking, and dogs are welcome.
If you’d rather leave the car behind, Echuca Moama Winery Tours offers half and full-day tours through the Perricoota region, complete with gourmet local produce and lunch. For something different, combine wine with a paddle steamer cruise – the Wharf to Winery tour takes you down the Murray on the historic PS Canberra before a two-course lunch and tastings at Morrisons.
The Green Pedal Winery E-Bike Tour is another option for the active – cycle scenic trails to St Anne’s Winery for tastings, cheese platters and river views.
Big4 Barham Holiday Park is located in the friendly riverside town of Barham , in the heart of New South Wales’ Riverina region.
Barham is a quiet, welcoming town — perfect for holidaymakers looking to unwind, slow down, and reconnect with nature.
With plenty of things to see and do nearby, including swimming, kayaking, cycling along the Murray River, exploring national parks, and sampling local wines and gourmet produce, Barham offers a relaxing yet enriching escape.
