Lake Mulwala lies on the Murray River between the twin towns of Yarrawonga in Victoria and Mulwala in New South Wales. The lake shapes Yarrawonga’s landscape: flooded river red gum trees are among its distinctive features. This gives the town several specific ways to enjoy a stay by the water. You can decide whether you’d rather admire the scenery, explore on foot or choose an activity on the water. Trails, sandy swimming spots and a cruise offer different ways to do so.
Foreshore trails and a walking loop
The Yarrawonga Tourist Trail runs for 5 km from the main traffic bridge at the end of Belmore Street along the shore of Lake Mulwala to Silverwood’s The Sebel. A description published by the local council in 2021 calls the trail a car-free path with scenic, uninterrupted views across the lake. The route therefore links a specific starting point, the foreshore and a named destination; the stated 5 km distance makes it a clearly defined stretch. Trail conditions can change, so it’s a good idea to check them before setting out.
A gentle walking loop on Chinaman’s Island offers views of the lake, wetland and woodland. Unlike the Tourist Trail, this route is characterised not by a 5 km stretch along the foreshore, but by a loop with a range of landscape views. If you prefer a circular route, the island walk is a good fit; the trail is more specifically defined by its length and named endpoints.
Swimming and a lake cruise
Frank Keenan Reserve has a playground on the Yarrawonga Foreshore and offers swimming in the lake at sandy swimming spots. Swimming conditions can vary, so plan according to conditions at the time of your visit. The reserve brings a playground and swimming together in one named location, while the Tourist Trail offers a route along the lakeshore.
The Cumberoona is an Australian paddle steamer. Its lake cruises depart from its mooring at the Yarrawonga Foreshore; the vessel has two decks and can accommodate up to 100 passengers. This shifts the perspective from the foreshore out onto the lake: a cruise is a different way to experience Lake Mulwala than the trail or a walk on Chinaman’s Island. Before travelling, check again whether cruises are running and bookings are available.
Getting your bearings
The Yarrawonga Mulwala Visitor Information Centre is at 2a Irvine Parade, Yarrawonga, Victoria 3730. If you plan to visit the centre, check its opening details in advance, as they may change. The precise address gives you a specific reference point for planning your time in town.
Discover more destinations: Strzelecki, Underbool, Raywood, Lara, Bellarine, Somerville, Carrum Downs, Metung
For the broader travel overview: Victoria.
