At dawn, Cathy and Rick Edmonds prepare to share an immersive experience with their guests at their luxury retreat, The Frames, which overlooks the vast and stunning Murray River—the longest river in Australia.
From the start, Cathy and Rick wanted to offer their clients 'perfect privacy.' 'That’s why everything here is private, from transfers to tours, and of course the villas. We work with our own cars and boats and with three local guides with whom we've developed a true trusted relationship. We built The Frames, because privacy is what we enjoy,' Rick explains. Deeply integrated into the local community through both their business ventures and conservation efforts, they have created a retreat that showcases the natural beauty of the Murray River, offering an engaging experience of Riverland's unique ecosystem and culture.
Guests can choose between a two- or three-night stay package, both offering a blend of comfort and adventure (See details at the end of the story).
The two packages include "Gondola Sunset Cruise" on the day of arrival, a romantic cruise taking guests on a traditional Venetian-style gondola as the sun sets over the water, enjoying a selection of local wines and gourmet snacks, making it an ideal way to unwind and take in the beautiful river scenery. Perfect for couples ! They also feature two or three immersive tours the following days, inviting travellers to explore the Riverland’s unique ecosystem and breathtaking scenery.
Each of The Frames' three villas is designed to offer luxurious, seamless indoor-outdoor living, with around 300 square metres of private space. Amenities include a hydrotherapy outdoor spa, bath, infrared sauna, and heated pool, all with panoramic views of the Murray River—an ideal setting for relaxation. High-end touches such as private kitchens, Smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and customised artwork enhance the personalised and indulgent experience by the river.
Today, the highlight is the exclusive "Wetland & Wildlife Safari", an integral part of The Frames’ all-inclusive package. In just a few minutes, guests are taken by 4x4 from their villa to a private jetty on the Murray, where they board a custom-designed boat, specially crafted by Rick to navigate the river's unique network of shallow waters, wetlands, and forests. This labyrinthine environment unveils the diverse flora and fauna of the Riverland, offering an unforgettable journey through a region like no other in Australia.
Gliding through narrow passages and vast stretches, the boat winds its way through an intricate maze of waterways formed by the Murray River’s dynamic ecosystem. Towering red gum trees—some centuries old—stand along the riverbanks, casting mirrored reflections on the water’s surface. Occasionally, the sight of dead trees interspersed with these giants serves as a reminder of the region’s resilience, having weathered cycles of extreme droughts and powerful floods. Others reminds of the millennia-long presence of the Erawirung Aboriginal people in the region, such as this trunk used to make a canoe, or this eucalyptus marked to indicate that an Aboriginal elder was buried nearby.
The wildlife along the Murray River is as captivating as the landscape itself. Kangaroos can be seen grazing in the open bushlands, while emus and the elusive goanna roam along the forest edges near the riverbanks. The river is also a sanctuary for a wealth of birdlife. In front of the boat, pelicans glide gracefully on the water’s surface, while flocks of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos chatter noisily above. We catch glimpses of Rainbow Bee-eaters, their brilliant plumage flashing as they dart after insects, and the striking Sacred Kingfisher, with blue and green feathers shimmering in the sunlight.
As the boat drifts into broader stretches of the river, we also encounter flocks of Australian Wood Ducks and Grey Teals bobbing on the water, with Black Swans gliding nearby, sometimes accompanied by their young cygnets. The variety of birdlife is truly astonishing: Blue-billed Ducks, Musk Ducks, and even the rare Pied Stilts and Red-necked Avocets add bursts of colour and movement to the tranquil waters, creating a vibrant spectacle that reflects the biodiversity of this exceptional ecosystem.
As our boat approaches the shore, we are greeted by the sight of a beautifully set table draped in crisp white cloth, contrasting elegantly with the wild, earthy tones of the surrounding landscape. The table is a feast for the senses: grilled Riverland meats, fresh vegetables, and fruits are carefully arranged alongside cheeses and artisan bread. We savor lamb cutlets and Riverland sausages cooked over an open flame, their smoky aroma mingling with the fresh river air. For a touch of indulgence, there are homemade chutneys and sauces crafted from local produce, including Riverland’s renowned citrus. To complement the meal, we enjoy a selection of regional wines, including Chardonnay and Shiraz, each sip bringing us closer to the essence of this land.
The sounds of nature envelope us—the distant call of a Whistling Kite, the flutter of Rainbow Bee-eaters’ wings, and the gentle lapping of the river against the shore. Our guide, Rob, also introduces us to some local bush plants—salty saltbush and vitamin C-rich karkala—growing just steps away from our table. Traditionally used by Aboriginal people, these plants add a subtle, earthy taste to grilled meats and fish, connecting us to the ancient culinary traditions of the land.
The “Flavour Safari” tour provides another exceptional experience the following day, this time combining the richness of local flavours with the beauty of the landscapes and the unique ecosystem of the Riverland.
The first stop is Arrosto Coffee, a coffee lounge located in a former fire station, established thirteen years ago by young local entrepreneurs Callum and Lauren. This iconic regional café is known for its specialties, such as cold drip coffee made from single-origin beans, offering guests a rich and flavourful start to the day.
The tour then proceeds to a fish farm specialising in Murray River Cod, a prized and rare native fish known for its delicate texture and rich flavour. Founded about twelve years ago by Brenton Parker, a passionate viticulturist who transitioned into aquaculture, this sustainable operation now supplies many of the region’s restaurants with fresh, high-quality cod.
Continuing on, the tour visits HideAway Farm, an 18-hectare almond orchard managed by Chris, the son of Rick and Cathy. This orchard, recognised for its sustainable farming practices, produces high-quality almonds harvested in March and April each year. The journey also offers an opportunity to view vineyards of Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Petit Verdot grapes, as well as orange groves, during the upcoming visit to Emaroo Ridge, Cathy and Rick’s home property, all thriving within the carefully irrigated landscape of the Riverland.
The journey takes us north to Calperum Station, beyond the lush, irrigated landscapes and into the semi-arid Mallee scrub that stretches nearly 400 km towards Broken Hill. As part of the "Indigenous Cultural Wildlife Tour," this 240,000-hectare former sheep station, now managed by ecologists and Indigenous rangers, is dedicated to restoring its original ecosystem after nearly a century of intensive grazing. Guided by a local ranger, visitors spend about four hours exploring this unique area, learning about ongoing conservation and rehabilitation efforts. With a catered lunch amidst nature, they can observe a thriving variety of flora and fauna, including emus, kangaroos, and even rare, endangered species like the Black-eared Miner and Malleefowl.
The “Flavour Safari” continues with a relaxing lunch at the Riverland Wine Centre, where guests enjoy a meal in the gardens overlooking a breathtaking valley, indulging in local flavours and wines.
The final stop is the Woolshed Brewery, founded by Tom and Sarah Freeman on the historic Wilkadene Station, located about 20 kilometres from Renmark. This unique microbrewery operates in a century-old shearing shed along the scenic banks of the Murray River. Here, travellers can sample locally crafted beers and original creations like the Utopia Hard Lemonade, made with fresh lemons and locally grown grapes. Committed to sustainable tourism, the brewery primarily uses solar energy, recycles wastewater for garden irrigation, and repurposes used grain as livestock feed.
To conclude the day, Headings Lookout, located just a few kilometers from the brewery, provides a breathtaking view over the golden limestone cliffs that rise majestically above the Murray River. From the viewing platform, the panorama reveals the river's winding curves, lush riverside forests, and extensive wilderness stretching out into the horizon. The view offers a striking contrast: the blue-green of the river, the vibrant green of flourishing vegetation, and the warm, reddish hues of the cliffs.
This unique tours, blending flavors, landscapes, and history, showcases the remarkable diversity of the Riverland—a region transformed into an oasis through irrigation, where vineyards, orchards, and wild landscapes now thrive, extending as far as the eye can see.
# The Frames offers three luxurious, private villas, each designed with unique features to provide guests with a secluded and opulent retreat:
1. Pastiche – This villa, ideal for couples, features a river-facing bedroom and includes a sunken spa bath with a waterfall feature, an infra-red sauna, and a private heated pool with a rain-shower waterfall. Pastiche offers both indoor and outdoor spaces tailored for relaxation, covering approximately 220 square meters in total.
2. Montage – Also designed for one couple, Montage includes a hydrotherapy outdoor spa, an outdoor bath, and an infra-red sauna, all set near a heated pool with views of the Murray River. This villa emphasizes seamless indoor-outdoor living, with around 300 square meters of space, combining comfort and elegance.
3. Collage – Built for two couples, Collage sets new standards for shared luxury. Both bedrooms are equally spacious and luxurious, each with river views. The villa also includes a six-person indoor hydrotherapy spa, a heated outdoor lap pool with a rain-shower waterfall, and a BBQ dining area. The total area, including outdoor living, reaches 272 square meters.
Each villa at The Frames is equipped with high-end amenities, such as a private kitchen, Smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and customized artwork, providing a personalized and indulgent experience along the Murray River.
The Frames offers two luxury all-inclusive packages for stays of two or three nights, each featuring a blend of relaxation, fine dining, and immersive nature experiences in the Riverland region.
1. 2-Night Package: This package includes a stay in one of The Frames' exclusive villas, which feature luxurious amenities such as a private heated pool, hydrotherapy spa, and infrared sauna. Guests enjoy the services of a private chef who prepares gourmet meals in their villa, as well as a "supreme BBQ pack" for outdoor dining. Additionally, the package includes a sunset gondola river cruise on the Murray River, a unique experience offering breathtaking views at dusk, along with a Wetlands & Wildlife Safari tour to explore the rich local ecosystem. The package also provides daily gourmet breakfast provisions, an open mini bar stocked with local wines and beers, and a high level of personalized service, making it a perfect short luxury retreat.
2. 3-Night Package: Building on the offerings of the 2-night stay, the 3-night package allows guests to enjoy an extended experience at The Frames with additional activities, such as a customized tour of the surrounding areas, including wine tastings and unique culinary experiences. This package includes all meals prepared by the in-house chef, ensuring a seamless blend of relaxation and indulgence. The longer stay also provides guests with more time to explore the Murray River’s diverse landscapes through curated excursions, such as the Flavour Safari or the Indigenous Cultural Wildlife Tour at Calperum Station. These tours deepen the connection with the Riverland’s unique flora, fauna, and Indigenous heritage, enhancing the overall experience.
1. From Adelaide: Adelaide Airport is about a 3-hour drive from The Frames. Guests can rent a car or enjoy the luxury transfer service offered by The Frames, providing a premium vehicle that transports them directly from the airport to their accommodation. The drive is straightforward and takes travelers through scenic South Australian wine regions and quintessential countryside landscapes.
2. From Melbourne: Visitors from Melbourne have several travel options. They can take a direct flight to Mildura, a small city approximately 1.5 hours from The Frames. Mildura Airport, serviced by Qantas, QantasLink, and Rex, provides convenient connections from Melbourne and Sydney. From Mildura, guests can rent a car or opt for a private transfer to The Frames. Alternatively, the road trip from Melbourne to Renmark can be a memorable experience, taking travellers through the stunning landscapes of the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians, making it an ideal scenic journey before arriving at The Frames—and continuing onward 2 or 3 days later to Adelaide and/or the Barossa Valley and Kangaroo Island.
