Where the Wetlands really meet the Outback
Take a step back in time, unwind, relax and enjoy unique accommodation in the restored self-contained Workman’s quarters. Experience this natural wetland, reinstated in 2012, after more than a century of being stranded from its lifeline, the Murrumbidgee River.
Lake Paika Station is one of the oldest properties in the area. The first European squatter was George Hobler in 1846. Burke & Wills also camped in the Paika stables.
In 1899, Lake Paika & Paika Creek became the site of Australia’s first environmental movement to protect a wetland.
Your hosts, Dianne & Iain invite you to experience Lake Paika Accommodation. Nestled on a peninsula of Lake Paika, this 450ha natural wetland was reinstated in 2012 after more than a century of being “stranded” from its Murrumbidgee “lifeline” has quickly responded. Improved biodiversity of wildlife and vegetation regeneration has been significant in response to watering.
Witness breathtaking sunsets and amazing birdlife. A bird watcher’s and photographer’s paradise, with over 20,000 waterbirds with almost 100 species having been observed. In November 2015 the endangered Little Bittern nested and hatched chicks in the surrounding wetlands!
Situated halfway between Sydney, Canberra and Adelaide, the perfect overnight stop on your long journey! 95% of our Guests wish they had planned a longer stay.
Wake to the gentle sound of bird calls, bask in amazing sunsets that become star-studded skies, and arise to clear sunrises signalling the start of your day!
Accommodation
Duff’s Cottage
A delightful recently refurbished 3 bedroom cottage. Perfect for families.
Workmen’s Quarters
Enjoy unique accommodation in the restored Workmen’s Quarters.
Functions
The Workmen’s Quarters are ideal for small Corporate Functions, training and presentations, with catering available by prior arrangement.
We also have a projector, screen and whiteboard available for hire.
Things to do at Lake Paika & Balranald
Guests are invited to fish, yabby, (fishing rods, tackle and yabby nets available free of charge, BYO bait) swim, bird watch, bush walk, cycle, canoe and photograph the historic buildings, homestead gardens and diverse birdlife.
Alternatively, relax lakeside with a good book and a pair of binoculars! We are situated between Yanga National Park and Mungo National Parks and are just 5 minutes by car from the historic Homebush Hotel, where you can experience a yarn with the locals, cold beers and great meals.
Lake Paika Homestead Gardens provide a spectacular Wedding & Function Venue:
- The recently restored Homestead Drawing Room, Bedroom and Main hallway, complete with Chandeliers and Old World charm are now available for hire.
- Perfect for the bride on her special day, formal family portraits and small Corporate meetings.
There is much to see and do in and around Balranald:
- Visit the Interpretative Pavilion, The Museum, The Old Gaol, the Wintong School and the Skate Park all at the Discovery Centre
- Try Balranald’s “Free Bike Hire” and cycle around the town
- See Aboriginal Art and Craft at the Discovery Centre and The Gallery
- Visit the Art Gallery with its many exhibitions
- Walk the Heritage and Military Trails and venture across the Swing Bridge
- Visit the Royal Theatre
- Birdwatching enthusiasts can walk the Ben Scott Memorial Bird Trail (seasonal)
- Take an Outback Geo Adventure’s tour to Yanga and Mungo
- Visit the Friends of the Southern Cross Museum where replica Southern Cross planes are housed
- Of course, Balranald also offers wonderful parks with playground equipment for those travelling with children, or the young at heart. A swimming pool in the heart of town is the ideal spot to cool off in the warmer months
- See interesting shops and enjoy the town’s restaurants and eateries
- If you are looking for a place surrounded by kilometres of river, landscapes teeming with life and where the sound of birds is the most popular music, Balranald is the place for you!
Getting Here
Lake Paika Accommodation is 17.25kms north of Balranald on the Mungo (Ivanhoe Road). Just look for the steam engine on the left.
Coming from Balranald, whether it be from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth or Canberra, just follow the signs to Mungo National Park, Lake Paika is 17.25kms out the Mungo (Ivanhoe Road).
Look for the Steam Engine! Turn left into the Homestead, unsealed 1.5kms, also with a wet weather road.
For the most accurate directions please enter 1725 Ivanhoe Road Balranald into your Google app.
WE DO NOT RECOMMEND ARRIVING AFTER DARK. Why?
- You risk missing an amazing sunset
- You risk loosing your way.
There are many different routes that can be taken when driving from any of the capital cities to the Balranald. The following is an overview of the routes from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide that may help you in planning your Outback Beds experience.
From | Routes | Distance |
---|---|---|
Brisbane | Warrego Highway <> Newell Highway <> Sturt Highway | 1,490km |
Sydney | Hume Highway <> Sturt Highway | 885km |
Melbourne | Calder Freeway <> Murray Valley Highway <> Mallee Hwy <> Sturt Highway | 437km |
Adelaide | Mallee Highway <> Sturt Highway | 528km |
Towns & Touring
Balranald
Balranald is one of the major entry points to the Lake Mungo National Park and Yanga National Park.
Food & Wine Touring Route
Visit wonderful historic homesteads, award-winning gardens and sample some beautiful food & wine.
More Information
For more information on rates, accommodation, bookings, etc, please contact us directly by clicking on the following link:
Phone: 0427 206 801
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