Riverland, the picturesque SA region where locals have a holiday lifestyle all year round

It’s indicative of a region’s appeal when the locals are happy to holiday in their own backyard.

In South Australia’s Riverland region, that backyard has Australia’s longest river, the Murray – the perfect setting for enjoying the scenery from a houseboat or a kayak.

River cruising

Winemakers Jenny and Eric Semmler of 919 Wines work hard to produce their award-winning organic wines and look forward to a gentle cruise along the river in their time off.

“Every year we try to take a holiday on a houseboat,” Jenny says. “It’s fabulous because the river is the destination. You can travel as much or as little as you wish.

“There is no mobile phone reception, which is brilliant, and you can pull up anywhere you like and go for a walk or light a campfire. You’re travelling at such a leisurely pace and the scenery is always changing.”

Locals Jenny and Eric Semmler will often take holidays along the river on a houseboat. Photo: Supplied

Originally from Melbourne, Jenny moved to the Riverland in 2000 to join Eric, who was working for BRL Hardy as a fortified winemaker.

The couple decided to open their own winery, building a straw bale cellar in Glossop and eventually buying a second vineyard in Loxton.

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“We went from working in an enormous winery to the smallest winery in the region,” she says. “We built it on our weekends and after work. It’s small but it’s exciting because it’s really immediate. You can smell the wine we’re bottling.”

Natural assets

The region is famous for wine production and stunning scenery. Photo: South Australian Tourism Commission / Adam Bruzzone

The Riverland is a powerhouse in wine production and produces up to 30 per cent of Australia’s annual crush. 919 Wines is one of more than a dozen wineries stretching from Blanchetown in the west to Renmark in the east. The region is also known for its citrus, stone fruits and almonds.

Next month, the focus will be on flowers, with the 24th annual Renmark Rose Festival running from October 19 to 28.

Dozens of local gardens will be open to visitors, including Ruston’s Roses, a rose-lovers’ paradise with more than 50,000 rose bushes and 4000 varieties.

“It’s an absolutely beautiful area, people can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle,” says agent Brooke Paech. Photo: Ben Goode

Magain Real Estate Happy Valley agent Brooke Paech describes the Riverland as a unique region with a focus on horticulture and the attractions of the Murray River.

“It’s an absolutely beautiful area where people can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, great weather and a warm, inviting community,” she says.

Festival-goers can also attend the opening fair at the Jarrett Memorial Gardens, take part in a gala dinner or cocktail night, and visit Riverland galleries for special exhibitions.

Top home in the area

252 Tarcoola Street, Renmark West. Photo: Supplied

​Locals will need to compete with interested buyers from Western Australia and the Northern Territory for this 4.2-hectare estate, which currently plays host to 2.4 hectares of chardonnay grapes, a horse arena, stables and three large sheds.

There’s also a grand homestead with multiple living spaces, a country-style kitchen and a choice of outdoor entertaining areas.

Magian Real Estate lead the expressions of interest campaign with a ​$1.3 million-to-$1.4 million price guide.