About this property

Comfortable Accommodation: Boathouse - Birks River Retreat in Goolwa offers a bed and breakfast with one bedroom and a living room. Guests enjoy a sun terrace, garden, and free WiFi. Modern Amenities: The property features air-conditioning, a kitchenette, balcony, and a terrace. Additional amenities include a fireplace, barbecue facilities, and free on-site private parking. Breakfast and Services: A continental breakfast with juice, cheese, and fruits is served in-room. Private check-in and check-out, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry service enhance the stay. Local Attractions: Located 5 km from Coorong Quays Hindmarsh Island and 80 km from Adelaide Airport, the property is near Clayton Bay Boat Club (32 km) and offers fishing, hiking, and cycling activities.

Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 10 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

Property highlights

Top location: Highly rated by recent guests (10.0)

Breakfast info

Continental

  • Free private parking available on-site


Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Room type
Number of guests
 
Bedroom
1 extra-large double bed
Living room
1 sofa bed
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Guest reviews

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Location

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Guests who stayed here loved

  • Colin
    Australia Australia
    It was a perfect location looking out to the River. The accommodation was very comfortable and well equipped.
  • Denise
    Australia Australia
    We loved the location and the fit out of the boathouse. The view of the marina sitting out on the huge deck was fantastic. Luxurious linen and towels and the bed was so comfortable. The provisions for breakfast and cheese platter were very...
  • Liz
    Australia Australia
    Everything about Birks Harbour was great for us! From the breakfast to the ability to cook occasionally, to sitting with a glass of wine looking at the rocking boats in the marina during the storm, to just listening to and watching the birds when...
  • Zinta
    Australia Australia
    The location on the river is perfect, with the small marina adjacent the building providing a backdrop of boats. The large deck is a great feature, perfect for an evening drink and viewing of the passing parade of birds. The interior of the...
  • Juanita
    Australia Australia
    Being right on the water, and the cracking combustion fire to keep us toasty warm. Super comfy bed. Slept very soundly.
  • Rosanna
    Australia Australia
    The breakfast provide excellent The views excellent The king bed awesome Location fantastic Peaceful and quiet
  • Stephen
    Australia Australia
    Lots of things. Location, style, layout and the views. The food that was available was a lovely surprise
  • Philip
    United Kingdom United Kingdom
    A lovely well equipped and presented property, it is in a great location for town and restaurants etc. what a place to wake up in the morning and enjoy a drink in the evening. We loved it
  • Andrew
    Australia Australia
    Cormorants dry their wings at the end of the jetty, pelicans skim in and the noisy cram of birdsong welcoming each daybreak is a chorus.
  • Peter
    Australia Australia
    The view, the river at your doorstep, relaxing atmosphere, facilities and welcoming hosts

Hosted by Wendy & Phil Watson

9.4
Host review score
Wendy & Phil Watson
NOTE - MINIMUM BOOKING OF 3 NIGHTS AT PRESENT Boathouse - Birks River Retreat is overlooking the Murray River at Goolwa on the Fleurieu Peninsula, only one hour scenic drive south of Adelaide, South Australia. A spacious luxury Retreat with elegant décor, is the perfect base for short or long term stays. The Retreat is self-contained, open plan living and fully equipped with everything you need to unwind and recharge. Located at historic Birks Harbour with classic wooden boats, abundant birdlife and magnificent views. Nearby, guests can explore the attractions in the region, beautiful pristine beaches, eco-cruising, nature walks, coastal cafes & restaurants, farmers markets, local artisan galleries and world class wineries. Experience this unique 5 star luxury setting at Goolwa, perfect for relaxation, romantic getaway for couples or enjoy the natural surroundings and beautiful landscaped gardens. It has been designed with total privacy where guests can relax and indulge the senses Boathouse - Birks River Retreat offers a unique experience surrounded by majestic trees overlooking the Murray River. Voted in the 10 BEST VIEWS IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA “BIRKS HAR
Phil & Wendy Watson are self confessed wooden boat fanatics. Besides owning historic wooden boats, which they have lovingly restored over the years, they also bought a historic marina at the River Port of Goolwa. With a unique collection of maritime artifacts and local artworks, reflecting the era of the historical River Port. Both have been involved in the organisation of the South Australian Wooden Boat Festival which has become an iconic event. They have tried to create a sense of history at the Boathouse - Birks River Retreat located at the historic Birks Harbour Marina. With their love of boats, they fitted out the old boat shed, which is now the iconic Boathouse Retreat at Birks Harbour. The Retreat offers an individual style and layout with stunning décor and maritime ambience. The Retreat is self-contained and has been designed with total luxury and privacy for guests to relax and enjoy the experience of this unique historic setting.
Goolwa is the last historic town on Australia’s largest river and joins the Great Southern Ocean at the mouth of the Murray River, gateway to the Coorong National Park. FROM THE LOCALS EYES… SOAK UP this unique historic setting and if you feel like a short stroll along the river visit the historic wharf and jump on a paddlesteamer or a steam train or drive only minutes to one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches … You can do all of this at BOATHOUSE - BIRKS RIVER RETREAT and nearby … discover the birdlife, experience the peaceful setting, view the sunsets, rest and relax, laze on the chaise lounge on the deck, watch the boats sail past, sit and appreciate the ambience of the Murray River, taste the hand selected South Australian Wine, read a book, view the original artworks, revel into the historic maritime collection, enjoy a swim at the nearby pristine beach, chill out, enjoy the space and fresh air, treat yourself to a Pamper Package, indulge in the organic bathroom goodies, savour the elegant surrounds and modern luxuries, relish in the Gourmet Breakfast Basket and much more...
Language spoken: English

Property surroundings

House rules

Boathouse - Birks River Retreat takes special requests - add in the next step!
Check-in
From 14:00
You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.
Check-out
Until 11:00
Cancellation/ prepayment
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.
Children and beds

Child policies

Children are not allowed.

Cot and extra bed policies

Cots and extra beds are not available at this property.

Age restriction
The minimum age for check-in is 18
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Accepted payment methods
VisaMastercardCash
Smoking
Smoking is not allowed.

The fine print

Need-to-know information for guests at this property

Please note that Boathouse - Birks River Retreat does not accept payments with American Express or Diners Club credit cards.

We offer a Gourmet Breakfast Basket on arrival (substantial for a 3 day stay) only.

Please inform Boathouse - Birks River Retreat in advance of your expected arrival time. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly with the contact details provided in your confirmation.

In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.