Spread over four days and 950 kilometres, the Darling River Run drive is the perfect opportunity to experience some of the best that outback New South Wales has to offer.
Walgett to Bourke – 231 kilometres
Walgett, situated at the junction of the Naomi and Barwon Rivers, is where your drive begins. While here, you have the opportunity to visit the Bore Baths. Take a dip in the naturally heated waters from the Great Artesian Basin.
Next stop on your journey is Brewarrina, a two-hour drive from Walgett. A place rich in history, particularly that of the Indigenous Australians, a visit to the Brewarrina Aboriginal Culture Museum is therefore a must.
Another hour’s drive downriver will take you to Bourke, the epitome of an Australian outback town. Take a cruise along the Darling River on the paddleboat Jandra and learn about Bourke’s extensive riverboat history.
Bourke to Tilpa – 192 kilometres
The second day of your trip will see you travel four hours to arrive in the town of Louth. While in Louth, drop into Shindy’s Inn, a very friendly local hotel filled with artefacts and memorabilia.
Your next stop is Tilpa, another 70 kilometres or so along the Darling River Road. While here, it is a good chance to get a fishing license and try your luck at catching some Murray cod in the Darling River.
Tilpa to Menindee – 282 kilometres
After a 5 hour scenic drive, you’ll be at your next destination, Wilcannia. This historic town was once an important and busy river port for paddle steamers transporting a range of goods, and to this day retains a number of Heritage Listed Buildings, many made from local sandstone.
Next stop is Menindee, a two-hour drive from Wilcannia. Menindee was the first town to be established on the Darling River. While here, immerse yourself in the town’s fascinating history, warm hospitality and beautiful natural attractions.
Visiting Kinchega National Park is an absolute must while you are here. Spread over a large area, it incorporates several of the Menindee Lakes and provides some of the best spots for camping along the Darling River.
Menindee to Wentworth – 240 kilometres
Next on your tour is Pooncarie, a three-hour drive from Menindee. Situated on the banks of the Darling River, Pooncarie is another town rich in paddle-steamer transportation history.
A short trip downriver is the World Heritage–listed Mungo National Park, which is arguably one of the best outback attractions in New South Wales.
Your final destination for this adventure-packed drive is Wentworth, about an hour from Menindee. It’s here where the Darling River meets the mighty Murray River and was once Australia’s busiest inland port.
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