Murray Bridge is in flatter country overlooking a broad bend of the famed Murray River. First established in the early 1850's, the town quickly grew to South Australia's largest river port, serving the then important river traders and transporters. Today the town supports the district's thriving agricultural industry, as well as its ever increasing influx of tourists, looking to enjoy the watersports, river cruises, and the variety of land-based activities on offer. Complimenting its diversity of attractions and entertainment, Murray Bridge boasts an excellent range of accommodation and places to eat which will help ensure an enjoyable stay.

One hundred kilometres inland from Adelaide on the main South Eastern Highway, Tailem Bend is a old railway town set on shores of the famous Murray River. The town's main attraction is Old Tailem Town, an interesting collection of old buildings and residences which allow visitors to temporarily step beck into the 19th century. Only a few kilometres further east of Tailem Bend, the South Eastern Highway splits into three separate routes. The Dukes and Princes Highways head towards South Australia's southern most stretches (see Lower South Australia), while the Mallee Highway heads directly east towards Pinnaroo and the Victorian border.

The Mallee Highway

The Mallee Highway represents the fastest route into the Victorian countryside and the popular Wyperfield and Murray-Sunset National Parks (see Outback Victoria). Along the way, the highway passes through several tiny rural villages including Sherlock and Lameroo , before arriving at Pinnaroo, just six kilometres from the state line. Pinnaroo can't boast much size either, but it does make an excellent rest stop before travelling into the relatively sparse Victorian outback.

The Dukes Highway

For those wishing to travel in-between Adelaide and Melbourne in a hurry, your best bet is the Dukes Highway. The Dukes takes an inland route which will eventually shave a couple of hundred kilometres off the more scenic coastal alternative. Travelling 64 kilometres from its beginnings near Tailem Bend, Coonalpyn is the first township of any size, and a good spot to break up the journey. Another 66 kilometres closer to Victoria, Keith is a larger town, supporting the productive pastoral area of the Coonalpyn Downs. From a bushwalkers perspective, Keith can be used to base explorations into the nearby Mount Rescue and Ngarkat Conservation Parks.

45 kilometres south-east of Keith, Bordertown, as its name would suggest, is the last town on the South Australian side of the Dukes Highway. Bordertown's main claim to fame is being the birthplace of former Australian Prime Minister, Robert J.L. Hawke. Anyone interested can visit Bob's childhood home on Farquhar Street, which now displays associated memorabilia. For something a little less political, the Bordertown Wildlife Park on the outskirts of town, is home to some more widely appealing Australians.