Urana Travel Guide (Riverina/New South Wales/Australia/Oceania)

Located in the heart of Riverina, New South Wales, Urana is a small but charming town that has remained off the tourist radar for far too long. Surrounded by picturesque countryside, this hidden gem offers a range of activities and attractions for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike. In this comprehensive travel guide to Urana, we’ll take you on a journey through its must-see sights and sounds and help you plan your perfect trip.

Introduction to Urana

Urana is a town located in southern New South Wales, Australia. Its name comes from the local Wiradjuri word for “flat country”, which is an apt description of the town’s landscape. First established in the mid-1800s as a pastoral outpost, Urana has since grown into a vibrant community that prides itself on its rich history, friendly locals, and beautiful scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Urana

Here’s a rundown of the best things to see and do in Urana.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Urana Courthouse – this historic building was erected in 1881 and now houses a museum dedicated to the town’s heritage.
Urana Historical Society Museum – located in the old school building, this museum showcases the history of the Urana region through a range of exhibits and artifacts.
Urana Cemetery – a peaceful and contemplative place, the Urana Cemetery is the final resting place of many of the town’s early settlers.

Natural Attractions of Urana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Goose Hill Lookout – located just outside of town, this lookout offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Urana Wetlands – a nature reserve on the outskirts of town that is home to a wide variety of birdlife, the Urana Wetlands are a must-visit for nature lovers.
Lake Uranagong – a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking, Lake Uranagong is just a short drive from the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Urana

Urana is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are plenty of trails and bike paths to help you explore it. Some of the best routes include:

The Urana Rail Trail – a 26km route that follows the path of the old railway line between Urana and Oaklands, this trail takes you through some picturesque scenery.
The Tocumwal to Urana Rail Trail – a 48km route that takes you through some incredible natural landscapes, from the Murray River to the open plains of Riverina.

Best Things to Do in Urana: Activities and Tours

Take a historical walk through the town – Urana has a rich history, and many of its buildings and sites are of historical significance. Take a walk through the town and discover its past for yourself.
Go fishing or boating on Lake Uranagong – this picturesque lake is a great spot for fishing, boating, or just relaxing by the water.
Take a hot air balloon ride – see the countryside from a different perspective and take in the stunning views of the Riverina region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Urana

If you’re planning to visit Urana for a week or longer, here’s a sample itinerary to help you get started:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Check in to your accommodation and spend the day exploring the town
Day 2	Visit the Urana Courthouse and Historical Society Museum to learn about the town’s history
Day 3	Take a hike or bike ride on the Urana Rail Trail or Tocumwal to Urana Rail Trail
Day 4	Explore the Urana Wetlands and Lake Uranagong
Day 5	Take a hot air balloon ride for great views of the countryside
Day 6	Visit nearby towns like Oaklands and Jerilderie
Day 7	Relax and enjoy your last day in Urana before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Urana

Urana may be a small town, but it still has plenty to offer when it comes to food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Classic Aussie meat pie – you can’t visit Australia without trying one of its most iconic dishes, the meat pie. Head to the local bakery and try one for yourself.
Australian barbecued sausage – Aussies love a good barbecue, and the sausages are a must-try. Head to the local farmers’ market and pick up some locally made sausages to grill up at your accommodation.

Local Beverages

Australian wines – Riverina is known for producing some exceptional wines, and you can sample some at one of the local wineries or bottle shops.
Craft beer – Australia’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, and Urana has its own microbrewery, the Urana Brewing Company, that’s definitely worth a visit.

Where to Stay in Urana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Urana may be a small town, but there are still plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some of the best places to stay include:

Urana Caravan Park – located on the banks of Lake Uranagong, this caravan park offers camping and cabin accommodation.
Urana Hotel – a classic country pub that offers comfortable rooms and excellent food.
Urana Motor Inn – if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, the Urana Motor Inn offers spacious rooms and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Urana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for something to take home to remember your trip, here are some great local products to look out for:

Riverina wines – as mentioned before, the Riverina region produces some excellent wines, so grab a bottle or two to take home.
Locally made crafts – Urana is home to some talented artisans, so be sure to check out local markets and shops for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Australian wool products – wool is a big industry in Riverina, and you can buy locally made blankets, scarves, and other woolen products to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Urana

Urana is a friendly and welcoming town, and the locals are always happy to chat and share their knowledge of the area. As with many country towns in Australia, there are a few customs and traditions to be aware of:

When driving on country roads, be sure to slow down and wave to passing cars. This is a common practice in rural areas and is a sign of respect and community.
If you’re invited to a barbecue or dinner party, it’s customary to bring a dish or a bottle of wine to share.
Australians love to use slang and colloquialisms, so don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something.

Best Time to Visit Urana

Urana is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. If you’re a nature lover, spring and autumn are the best times to visit when the weather is mild and the countryside is at its most beautiful. If you’re more interested in events and festivals, summer is the peak tourist season when there are plenty of activities and events happening in the town and surrounding area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Urana

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Urana:

Do:

Get to know the locals – Urana is a friendly town, and the locals are always happy to chat and share their stories.
Respect the environment – Urana is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, so be sure to leave them as you found them and dispose of rubbish responsibly.
Ask for recommendations – the locals know the best places to eat, drink, and explore, so don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.

Don’t:

Litter – as mentioned before, it’s important to respect the environment and dispose of rubbish responsibly.
Ignore road safety – driving on country roads can be hazardous, especially at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active. Be sure to reduce your speed and stay alert.
Disrespect the local culture – Aussies take their culture and customs seriously, so be sure to show respect and courtesy at all times.

Safety and Health

Urana is a safe and welcoming town, but it’s always important to take care of your health and safety when travelling. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in Urana

Be aware of your surroundings – as with any unfamiliar place, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
Check weather conditions – Riverina can experience extreme weather conditions, so be sure to check weather updates before venturing out.
Swim safely – if you’re swimming in Lake Uranagong, be aware of potential hazards such as submerged logs and wildlife.

Health in Urana

Drink plenty of water – it can get hot in Riverina, so be sure to stay hydrated.
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent – the Australian sun can be harsh, and there are plenty of mosquitoes and other insects to contend with.

Getting to Urana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Urana is located approximately 478km southwest of Sydney and 415km north of Melbourne. Here are some transportation options and logistics to help you plan your trip:

Airports Near Urana

Albury Airport – approximately 120km from Urana, Albury Airport is the closest airport with commercial airline services.
Wagga Wagga Airport – approximately 145km from Urana, Wagga Wagga Airport also offers commercial airline services.

Bus Stations Near Urana

Wagga Wagga Bus Terminal – located in the heart of Wagga Wagga, approximately 145km from Urana, this bus terminal offers a range of services to regional and interstate destinations.

Other Options

Driving – Urana is approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Sydney and a 4-hour drive from Melbourne.
Train – the nearest train station is located in Wagga Wagga, approximately 145km from Urana.

How to Get Around in Urana

Urana is a small town, and the best way to get around is by walking or cycling. There are also taxi services available if required.

Where to Go Next from Urana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the Riverina region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Jerilderie – a historic town located approximately 100km from Urana with its own fascinating history to explore.
Griffith – located approximately 130km from Urana, Griffith is known for its rich agricultural and Italian heritage.
Murrumbidgee River – a vast and beautiful river that runs through the heart of the Riverina region, the Murrumbidgee River offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.

Conclusion

Urana may be a small town, but it has plenty to offer anyone seeking a true taste of country life in Australia. From the picturesque countryside to the friendly locals and delicious food and wine, Urana is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the hidden gems of Riverina. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your perfect trip and given you a taste of all that Urana has to offer. Happy travels!