A DAY IN....
Mannum
Nestled on a pretty stretch of the Murray River, about 85km from Adelaide, lies charming Mannum.
Words: Andrew Rasch
With the river in its DNA and age-old ties to manufacturing and farming, Mannum is the birthplace of Australia’s first motor car – the steam-driven Shearer with the world’s first differential. Known for its majestic paddle-steamers, resilience flows through the veins of this historic town.
See
Grab your binoculars and stroll the Hermann Gass Bird Sanctuary boardwalks – all for free – as you watch graceful pelicans, swans and other waterbirds living their best lives.
If steepish bushwalking is no bother, visit Mannum Waterfalls for more natural beauty. Best seen after decent rains, this 3km-return trip follows Reedy Creek where you can rock-hop among the tranquil pools and waterfalls and enjoy the surrounding wildlife.
Embrace Mannum’s paddle-steamer-inspired heritage and join a day cruise on the PW Mayflower or PS Marion. Step back in time as you venture onto these woodfired vessels from yesteryear and witness the river’s wonders at a gentle pace.
Mannum Falls.
Shop
What says historic town more than an old-world antiques and curios shop? At Mannum Old Wares and Lolly Shop, you’ll find clothing, giftware, die-cast classic cars and everything in between.
At Mannum Old Wares, you’ll also find the Butter Factory, offering lollipops, liquorice and other sticky treats to cater to your sweet tooth.
Water sports enthusiasts are spoilt for choice at DejaVu Mannum. Get the latest kneeboards, skis, clothing, buoyancy vests and more.
Eat and drink
Every Mannum trip should include a visit to the German-inspired Randell Street Bakery. Sharing its name with town pioneer William Randell, this bakery serves great coffee, artisan bread, and other baked goodies, including a delectable Bienenstich (bee sting) cake.
If you’re partial to a pub burger or schnitzel (or something fancier), washed down with a cold drink, book a table at the Mannum Hotel, Mannum Club or Pretoria Hotel.
For something different, dine at Picklemee Grandma Café. Graze on fresh salads and made-to-order sandwiches while you browse high-quality arts, crafts and furniture for sale, or swap some plant cuttings on Grandma’s Grow Free cart.
Pretoria Hotel.
Stay
How about a three-night trip on the Murray Princess for a special experience? With comfortable cabins and all meals included, you’ll see stunning landscapes, enjoy scenic walks and taste some worldclass local food and wine.
The highly-rated Harbour Mannum in the 150-year-old Mannum Bakery has five luxury hotel suites and quaint features like exposed stone walls, all just a hop, skip and jump from the river. For a value-for-money stay, book a river-view room at the Mannum Motel.
Hermann Gass Bird Sanctuary.
IMAGES: Josh Geelen, Nadinne Grace, SATC.
