Right on the waterfront on the iconic Murray River is the historic Birks Harbour Marina, home to some of Goolwa's unique and classic wooden boats. Three luxurious accommodation options are available to guests fortunate enough to find this gorgeous haven. The Boathouse is a divine retreat for two right on the marina, a tranquil space where you can relax and watch the boats sail past, or doze to sounds of the river - water lapping against boats bobbing, rigging creaking and clinking gently - and the abundant birdlife of the river system. It's a perfect spot to view pelicans and ibis, or watch the fishing habits of the delicately exotic spoonbills, while reed warblers sing along the banks and superb fairy wrens flit and flicker.
Riverview and Captain' Retreat are set high amongst majestic Port Jackson fig trees and Norfolk Pines in two acres of private terraced gardens. Overlooking Birks Harbour and the Murray River, they offer self contained individual style and layout featuring stunning decor and maritime ambience. Designed for total luxury and privacy, each retreat has outdoor al fresco dining and BBQ facilities. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the mineral water pool, then relax with a wine as you savour the elegant surrounds and modern luxuries. Order a food platter or cook up a BBQ in a unique historic setting, and plan a few activities on the river - jump on a paddle steamer, fish from a rowboat, take some amazing photographs of local birds or simply relax on a deck chair in the sun, watching the soothing reflections of life on the river.
Just an hour's drive south of Adelaide on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula, the river port of Goolwa is a unique and fascinating destination. Located on the mouth of the Murray River on Lake Alexandrina, you'll find a diversity of boating activities available, from paddle steamers and sailboats to canoes and powerboats. Visit the historic wharf, go birdwatching in the wetlands connecting the Murray and Lakes area or explore the historic buildings of Goolwa. Order a tankard of ale at the Steam Exchange Brewery, or take a leisurely ride on the Cockle Train around Encounter Bay to Victor Harbour, enjoying seaside views and fresh ocean breezes. It's an easy drive to the Langhorne Creek, McLaren Vale and Currency Creek wine regions, as well as Hindmarsh Island and Willunga Farmers' Market. Birks Harbour Marina is conveniently located within 1km of the shops, cafes, restaurants, cellar door, brewery, art galleries, local market and the historic wharf of Goolwa.
Relax in the very stylish Boathouse, surrounded by local artwork & books, nautical features and coastal ambience. Once the old slipway and now luxurious romantic accommodation for couples, the Boathouse has an open plan living area with a luxury queen size bed and studio sofa bed, and views over the marina and river. You'll find a claw bath and separate shower with luxury organic accessories. There's a full galley kitchen, airconditioning and a combustion wood heater for cool nights. Relax on the private deck with al fresco dining setting, BBQ and chaise lounges. For entertainment there's TV/BluRay DVD/iPod docking station with CD/radio. A gourmet continental breakfast basket is provided with a bottle of premium South Australian wine on arrival for 2 days only. Complimentary local port, sweet and savoury treats are provided.
The Riverview Retreat is the ultimate romantic getaway. Its luxurious contemporary style extends over two levels, with a downstairs sunroom, fully equipped gourmet kitchen and upstairs a separate open plan living area with a romantic sitting room. It offers a magnificent king bedroom with luxurious linen and a modern bathroom. The Riverview Retreat is located opposite Birks Harbour on an elevated block and has two private balconies with river and garden views. The decor is elegant and luxurious, with custom furnishings, original artworks and a maritime, coastal atmosphere. Designed for total privacy, guests can relax and immerse themselves in the beautiful environment of gardens and river, with views enjoyed from two private balconies. Guests have access to a large mineral water swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens.
The Captain's Retreat epitomises luxury boutique accommodation, beautifully appointed with a generous relaxation area and a mix of traditional and contemporary decor. Set in two acres of beautiful private gardens surrounded by majestic trees, and opposite Birks Harbour Marina on an elevated block with river views it is suitable for one or two couples. This private, self contained spacious retreat is on one level with river views and magnificent king size bedrooms with luxury linen and contemporary bathrooms. The Captain's Retreat features a spacious open plan sitting area with french doors opening to the gardens and pool area. It has a complete gourmet kitchen and wonderful views from every window. The decor is elegant and luxurious with custom furnishings, original maritime artifacts and artworks with a coastal theme. A split system airconditioning system and push button gas log fire adds to the comfort and there's a TV/BluRay DVD/iPod dock and stereo/radio. It has been designed with total privacy and guests have access to the large mineral water swimming pool, surrounded by lush gardens.
Gourmet continental breakfast basket and bottle of premium wine for minimum 2 day stays
3x KS /2x QS beds
Luxury bathrooms
Claw bath (Boathouse)
Kitchen
TV/BluRay/iPod dock/CD
RC airconditioning
Gas log fire (Captain's)
Wood heater (Boathouse)
Luxury amenities
Mineral water pool (Retreats)
BBQ
Coorong National Park
Hindmarsh Island
Goolwa Wharf Markets
Goolwa Motor Musuem
The Cockle Train
Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram
South Lakes Golf Club
Arts and Crafts Shop
Goolwa Fish Cafe
Kingsbrook Restaurant
Peace, tranquility and quality. Consider a perfect retreat - this is it. We had the most fabulous weekend. Breakfast provisions were not the usual - delightful! The house was roomy (very roomy) and very well equipped. The peaceful gardens overlooking the river were also a delight. We stayed at the Captain's Residence - with some incredibly interesting memorabilia - worth spending time investigating. We will be back!
Adelaide, South Australia
Beautiful! My husband and I stayed in the Riverview Retreat for the weekend to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. The retreat is a beautiful place to stay for a couple, quality furnishings and special touches made us feel welcome. Highly recommend to anyone. A special thanks to Wendy for her hospitality .
Kingston SE, Australia
Five star plus! Never have we stayed in such a wonderful place and been made to feel so special. The location is wonderful, particularly for someone like me who adores the Australian Pelican! The furnishings, layout and all the wonderful little treats which make you feel so special and cared for are a delight. The warm and genuine welcome given also make you feel special. We could hardly tear ourselves away and can't wait to return here when we next visit South Australia from the UK.
Wales, United Kingdom
Be inspired by the natural beauty of this region. See it, feel it, taste it.