Overlooking Hindmarsh Island, this historical country home, with its own charming marina, is situated on the River Murray, near its Mouth, 1.7km upstream from the Town Centre of Goolwa, behind a huge stand of old Norfolk pine trees.

Built early this century by prominent Adelaide businessman Napier Birks as a country holiday retreat, the home has been extensively refurbished. The renovations have recaptured the ambience of the holiday estate, allowing the enjoyment of our wonderful South Australian Mediterranean climate.

The garden rambles behind thick limestone walls like those of the house, under mature overhead trees. There are many wonderful varieties of palms, a huge magnolia grandiflora, a coral tree, an avenue of enormous Moreton Bay fig trees, bunya-bunya and old Norfolk pines, and many other native and exotic species.

The delightful unspoilt marina is a gem. At present it holds 22 boats and can handle any guest boats for those people staying, or for those who would like to arrive by water. There is a marvellous old slipway building on the water, which has a huge studio space, being a paradise for visiting painters. A spacious lawn area under willow trees next to the water is ideal for picnics, reading and water sports.

It is a place teaming with wildlife, including many birds, especially water birds, pelicans galore, ducks and the elusive, intriguing night herons. Even the marsupial water rats are fun.

Birks Harbour allows guests to enjoy a relaxing break with a delicious breakfast in the home. Outdoors there is the ever-changing river, the wondrous ocean beach and many other local attractions which make it a very exciting place to visit. Here are some of South Australia's earliest buildings and history, also history of the old river life with the paddle steamers.