Of all Australia's mighty waterways, the Murray is arguably the most majestic. Six hundred and fifty kilometres of the great river flows through South Australia alone, passing amazing birdlife, ocean views, vast lakes, towering sand dunes and ancient Aboriginal burial sites along the way. Host to the longest canoe race in the world a punishing 404 kilometres between Yarrawonga and Swan Hill, the river also meanders through the wilds of Coorong National Park, about two hours' drive from Adelaide. So if you want to get up close and personal with the wonders of the Murray, all you need are a tiny canoe and a big thirst for adventure.

Home to the Ngarrindjeri people, the Coorong area was originally called kyrangh, or "the long neck". Coorong National Park encompasses a series of long, shallow, salt lagoons, 140 kilometres long and four kilometers wide. They stretch from just south of the mouth of the Murray River at Salt Creek to just north of the township of Goolwa. Goolwa itself is an easy 90-minute drive from Adelaide.

Canoeing or kayaking is for anybody who doesn’t want to miss a thing. It is one of the most eco-friendly ways to experience this wetland area of such enormous national and international significance and to get close to many species of rare and endangered birds. In fact, the Coorong is an ornithologist's dream!

If you plan on staying overnight, there are some great little camping spots along the way. Just make sure you get a camping permit from one of the self-registration stations. And keep your eyes peeled for the many National Parks and Wildlife Service signs telling the story of the area and its ecology.

Details
Canoes and kayaks can be hired from a number of outlets, while several tour operators offer half-day excursions and extended tours. For more information visit: www.southaustralia.com

Ecotrek
Ecotrek offers brilliant three-day/two-night tours, plus camping along the way. See their website for more details.
Website: www.ecotrek.com.au

Coorong Wilderness Lodge
Overlooking the Coorong, accommodation includes single and double rooms with ensuites. Not only can you enjoy the Coorong by kayak from here, it's also a great place to learn about the past and present history of the Ngarrindjeri people.
Phone: (08) 8575 6001
Email: kurangk@lm.net.au

Water Valley Wetlands
If you have your own kayak, you might like to consider making this old cattle station, now the subject of an extensive revegetation program, your base. The site offers great bush camping for small groups and couples who need to rest their tired arms after a solid day on the water. Alternatively, the Wetlands Centre is half an hour's drive south of the Morella Homestead. Overlooking the wetlands, it sleeps 13 people and has four showers, three toilets and a fully equipped kitchen.
Website: www.watervalleywetlands.com.au

Poltalloch Station
Two hours (137km) south-east of Adelaide, the historic homestead on this 5500-acre property has been in the Cowan family since the 1830s. It's a great place to launch your own canoe or use one of the canoes provided. There's also charming accommodation, including three air-conditioned cottages, each with lounge and kitchen.
Website: www.poltalloch.com