36 Hours of Summer in Rutherglen

From the historic charm of Mount Ophir Estate to the acclaimed wines and lively restaurants in the Rutherglen Wine Region, here’s your perfect guide to spending a weekend in charming Rutherglen this summer. Enjoy scenic walks along the Murray River, take a refreshing dip in its tranquil waters, and unwind in this idyllic setting. 

 

FRIDAY 

5:00 PM: Arrive at Mount Ophir Estate 

Embark on your Rutherglen adventure with a stay atMount Ophir Estate. Choose from six distinctive and beautifully refurbished accommodations, each offering a blend of style, comfort, and serene views of the surrounding nature. Whether you opt for the charming French provincial Tower or The Residence, the original estate homestead, both provide the perfect setting to start your relaxing weekend. Kick off your shoes, pour a glass of wine, and embrace the beginning of your well-deserved getaway. 

7:00 PM: Dinner in Town 

Head to Main Street Rutherglen for dinner atThousand Pound. To make the most of your evening, call a Corowa Wahgunyah Taxi and relax while you dine. Locally known as TP, this city-meets-country hotspot recently unveiled a fresh menu that fuses modern Australian and Asian flavours, curated by Executive Chef Jack Cassidy. Enjoy dishes like Cha Siu pork ribs with crispy shallot and chive, or the famous goat curry. With an extensive selection of Rutherglen’s finest wines available by the glass or bottle, you might even bump into one of the region’s winemakers. 

 

SATURDAY 

9:00 AM: Begin your day off slowly 

Start your day by stretching your body and centering your mind with a morning yoga session at Harvest Yoga in Rutherglen. This warm, welcoming space fosters a strong sense of community, where everyone is invited to unwind and relax. If you're looking for more flexibility, strength, and toning, head to Movere Pilates Studio. With classes for all levels, Movere offers a fun, supportive environment that empowers you to navigate your own fitness journey. 

12:00 PM: KIN 

Treat yourself to lunch at KIN, recently awarded a Good Food Guide Chef’s Hat for the second consecutive year. This restaurant celebrates local produce, offering “princely prix-fixe dining with plenty of now-factor,” as described by the guide. The award reflects KIN’s dedication to regional ingredients, quality, and exceptional dining experiences. Executive Chef Jack Cassidy and his talented team expertly balance flavour, umami, and texture in every dish. Think beetroot, congo potato, and pepperberry, or Murray cod with black bean and ginger-garlic crumb. These unforgettable dishes are sure to leave a lasting impression. 

2:00 PM: All Saints Estate 

Enjoy a wine-tasting journey at All Saints Estate, renowned for its rich heritage and exceptional wines. Explore the Cellar Door and indulge in a guided tasting, immersing yourself in the distinct flavours of Rutherglen's signature varietals. Don't miss the award-winning Museum Muscat range, scoring 100 points in the Halliday Wine Companion annually. 

3:00 PM: Lazy afternoon at St Leonards Vineyard 

Head to St Leonards Vineyard, just a 5-minute drive away, nestled on a picturesque bend of the mighty Murray River. This hidden gem enjoys a cooler climate than most Rutherglen wineries, thanks to its proximity to the river. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the lush greenery and expansive views while sipping on some of the winery’s vibrant wines, including Pinot Gris or Cabernet Franc. You may even be lucky if it’s the first Saturday of the month and can enjoy some complimentary music as part of the monthly Music on the Murray series. 

 

SUNDAY 

9:00 AM: Breakfast at Mount Ophir Estate 

Begin your second day with a leisurely sleep-in at Mount Ophir Estate. Enjoy a relaxed start with fresh sourdough, delicious condiments, and coffee provided, so you can ease into the day at your own pace. 

12:30 PM: Lunch at Bonnie 

Nestled within the All Saints Estate grounds, Bonnie is a family-friendly spot offering delicious pizza and wine that everyone can enjoy. Overlooking the estate's lagoon, you can relax while watching the resident ducks and savoring a pizza named after the children of the Brown sibling owners. 

3:30 PM: Explore Rutherglen 

Before you say goodbye to Rutherglen, take some time to explore the town further. Visit a few of the region's family-owned wineries, many of which have been passed down through four or five generations. Be sure to squeeze in a last-minute stop along Main Street to pick up a memento of your visit—perhaps a famous Rutherglen pie!