Nestled at the southern end of Lake Bonney, Barmera is a historic country town in South Australia’s Riverland region. It was originally home to the Ngawadj people before being settled by Europeans in 1859. Once a popular overnight stop for sheep drovers, Barmera grew in the interwar years with the arrival of the railway.
Things to do in Barmera
One of Barmera’s most famous architectural landmarks is the Bonney Theatre, a beautiful Art Deco building on the main street. It hosts performances and exhibitions throughout the year and is renowned for its after-dark illuminations. Nearby is Rocky's Hall of Fame and Pioneers Museum, which is filled with exhibits dedicated to country music legends.
Golfers can enjoy a round at the Barmera Golf Course, which is considered one of the top courses in the Riverland region. It features 18 challenging holes with well-maintained fairways and greens. Nearby is Bruce Oval and the Barmera Dog Park, where your four-legged friends can run free. At the Memorial Oval are a set of gates dedicated to those who lost their lives at war.
Travelling with kids? They’ll love a run around at the Barmera Playspace, which boasts a collection of imaginative play equipment on the shores of Lake Bonney. There are barbecues and picnic shelters where you can enjoy lunch before walking across the road for a dip at the lakeside beach. If you prefer to dine out, the Bluebird Cafe and Lakes Bakery are a stone’s throw away.
Getting around Barmera
Barmera is around 2.5 hours’ drive from Adelaide and Adelaide Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Long-distance buses connect to Barmera and the town centre is small enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the region.