Where the Murray River sets the pace.

Craving a relaxed escape with a side of riverside charm, craft culture, and nature on tap? Wodonga might just surprise you. Often overshadowed by its twin city across the border, this Victorian gem offers a delightful mix of scenic trails, regional art, country hospitality, and local produce — without the crowds.

Here’s how to slow down and savour a weekend in Wodonga.

Day One: Start with the River – And Let the Day Flow 🚴‍♀️

Kick things off with a ride or walk along the High Country Rail Trail, which hugs Lake Hume and meanders past rolling farmland and historic bridges. The Murray is never far away — and in the cooler months, the mist rising off the water creates a kind of magic you’ll want to bottle.

Make a breakfast stop at BeanStation Café, a converted railway station with hearty brunch favourites, quality coffee, and views of passing cyclists and walkers.

Art, Makers & Regional Culture 🎨

Spend the late morning exploring Hyphen – Wodonga Library Gallery. This contemporary space brings together thought-provoking exhibitions with cosy reading nooks — ideal for a winter warm-up and creative inspiration.

Wander over to nearby artisan shops and community hubs — you’ll often find pop-up makers markets or local craft on display. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations — Wodonga locals are proud of their creative scene and always happy to share tips.

Slow Lunch & Small-Batch Sips 🍽️🍷

Head just out of town to Jones Winery & Vineyard in Rutherglen (a scenic 30-minute drive) for a long, slow lunch. These spots blend rustic charm with unforgettable flavours — from seasonal platters to rich reds perfect for cool weather sipping.

Back in Wodonga, you can also sample beers at Blazing Stump Hotel — a local fave for brews and hearty, no-fuss pub fare.

Afternoon Unwind at Lake Hume 🌅

Make your way to Lake Hume in the late afternoon. The walk along the dam wall is iconic, and at sunset, the light across the water is truly something else. If the weather holds, this is a beautiful spot to bring a thermos, kick back with a book or journal, and simply take it all in.

In cooler weather, pack a blanket and enjoy the golden hour from your car with a lakeside view — just as peaceful, and twice as toasty.

Evening Eats & Fireside Feels 🔥

As the day winds down, dinner at Miss Amelie is a must. Housed in Wodonga’s historic railway station, it delivers modern European dishes in a warm, heritage setting. For something more casual, La Maison blends indoor/outdoor dining with great local wines and a seasonal menu that always hits the mark.

Day Two: Market Mornings & Country Drives 🛻

Start your Sunday with a visit to the Albury Wodonga Farmers Market (held on alternating weekends) or pop into a local bakery for fresh sourdough and pastries.

If you’ve got time, take a short scenic drive to Yackandandah or Beechworth — charming nearby towns full of galleries, antique stores, and cosy cafés. Just what a lazy Sunday demands.

Wodonga Like a Local: Travel Tips & Hidden Gems 🗺️

  • Pack layers — winter mornings can be crisp, but sunny afternoons warm up nicely.

  • Check event listings at The Cube Wodonga for live performances or weekend markets.

  • Stop for a photo at the historic water tower on Hume Street, now a public art canvas.

  • Ask a local about where to get the best vanilla slice — you won’t regret it.

Final Thoughts from the Murray’s Edge

Wodonga proves that you don’t need a bustling tourist hub to enjoy a weekend well spent. With its relaxed pace, riverside trails, creative culture, and connection to nature, this border town invites you to unwind in all the right ways.

Whether you’re cycling the rail trail, sipping local brews, or simply watching the light shift over Lake Hume, Wodonga offers an easygoing escape that lingers long after you’ve returned home.

Riverside Resources for Your Weekend

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