Goolwa Australia - The Perfect Seaside Getaway

                                                                                         

Gateway to the internationally significant wetlands of the Coorong National Park and the mighty Murray River, the river port of Goolwa is now a popular tourist destination on Lake Alexandrina. There are so many things to do, you will need more than one visit to fit them all in - but Goolwa has always been known for drawing people back, time and again.

On offer, is quiet, relaxing all-year-round recreation with its historic buildings greatly enriching the town's interest, since Goolwa is one of Australia's oldest towns. The nearby Murray Mouth is renowned for its mulloway fishing, while surf fishing from Goolwa Beach is usually rewarding for the angler. The lakes are a haven for boating enthusiasts.

During its hey-day, from the 1850s to the 1880s, Goolwa was one of the country's earliest and most important River Murray ports. It was the southern terminus for the Murray-Darling Basin, and a bustling centre for transport and trade between South Australia and the eastern colonies. It was the last port of call for paddle steamers trading wool and general produce during the mid-to late 1800s. These days, the steamers carry tourists along the mighty river.

From the 1850s to the early 1880s Goolwa monopolised South Australia's river trade with Victoria and New South Wales. During this period the volume of trade increased enormously and the town developed accordingly. The original wharf was extended in 1866 and rebuilt in 1874.

Located in an outstanding position overlooking the historic Wharf, with glorious views of the River Murray and the Hindmarsh Island Bridge, the Visitor Centre promotes tourism services and experiences by providing a professional information and booking service with specialist knowledge of Goolwa, the Alexandrina Council Region, Fleurieu Peninsula and beyond.

In the winter months it is a great place for whale watching, and there are the wharf markets, the River Museum, an array of cafes, shops and restaurants, and of course - the 'Cockle Train' steam engine, which wends its way along the coast.

There is a 22km bike track to Victor Harbour, which shares the white sands and crystal waters of Goolwa - and if you don’t fancy the ride back, just jump on the 'Cockle Train' and soak up the coastal scenery on the way back.

As if being in the middle of such beauty wasn’t enough, Goolwa is also surrounded by many well-known wineries, and wine tastings at their cellar doors is a treat any time of year. Goolwa is Australia's first officially credited 'slow-food/lifestyle' town. The Steam Exchange Brewery revives the grand tradition of brewing fine ales as a part of the Fleurieu Peninsula regional cuisine.

Finally, there are a number of accommodation options from budget self-contained cottages, to B&Bs and upmarket holiday homes. If you're coming from the other side of the country, or the planet, you can easily take a day-trip to South Australia's capital, Adelaide. A visit to this beautiful and progressive city and enhance your vacation experience.

About the author:
Peter is the co-author of the popular blog Good Life Holidays. He is an authority on vacation holidays and his blog contains useful of information on sought after locations including Goolwa"> http://goodlifeholidays.com/goolwa-australia-the-perfect-seaside-getaway">Goolwa Australia, and much more! Check out his blog today!

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