about.
less distraction. more connection.
property.
Restoring the property to its natural beauty has been a labour of love spanning over six years. With over 25 years of involvement with Landcare initiatives on Hindmarsh Island, the caretakers have planted thousands of native shrubs and trees on the island and have continued their commitment to conservation at Samphire. This has included regenerating the sandy soil in partnership with Neutrog biodynamic fertilisers, and landscaping around the cabins with native plants which supports local birdlife whilst minimising water use.
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The property's Angus cattle are entirely grass and pasture-fed, and kept in a small, carefully managed herd to prevent overstocking and overbreeding. Thousands of introduced Aleppo pines have been removed to make way for native vegetation such as sheoaks, while selected mature trees remain to provide shade and habitat for birdlife. The native Samphire beds have been largely fenced to protect them from cattle and ensure safe nesting for the native birdlife such as Plovers, Wrens and Samphire Thornbills.
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Sustainability extends to the cabins, which incorporate solar panels, rainwater collection and fire-rated composite cladding made with recycled materials.
location.
Steeped in history and natural beauty, Kumarangk Hindmarsh Island sits near the final stretch of the Murray River, just minutes from the Murray Mouth and the breathtaking Coorong National Park, famously featured in the Australian film Storm Boy.
The Coorong and Lower Lakes are internationally recognised Ramsar wetlands, protected since 1985. Home to over 240 bird species, the region is an important sanctuary for wildlife and one of Australia's largest pelican breeding areas.
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Nearby Goolwa, once a thriving river trading port, is Australia's first accredited Cittaslow or 'Slow Town'. Originating in Italy, the movement celebrates slower living, environmental conservation, local produce and cultural heritage. Goolwa's rich history of steam travel also lives on, with the historic Cockle Train connecting Victor Harbor and Goolwa, and the PS Oscar W paddle steamer offering a glimpse into the region's river-trading past.
boardwalk.
Samphire’s private boardwalk creates a rare connection between the retreat and the river. Designed and built specifically for the property, bringing it to life required years of careful planning, persistence and a complex approval process.
Accessible to guests of both cabins, the shared private boardwalk winds through the surrounding vegetation to the river, and every effort has been made to ensure it sits lightly on the land. Extending into the water, it features two generous private moorings where guests can arrive by boat or secure their own watercraft.
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From the wide deck, the river becomes part of the stay. Guests can relax here or begin a day of boating or water sports directly from the property.
The boardwalk is equally special when nothing is planned. A place to watch the birdlife, take in the changing light or simply enjoy the stillness. More than a practical feature, it reflects the vision and determination behind Samphire, inviting guests to experience the river rather than merely admire it.
design.
Architecturally designed in conjunction with the caretakers, Samphire Retreat was thoughtfully conceived as a place to escape the pace of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Raw, humble and elemental in design, the cabins offer a sense of grounded serenity and luxurious comfort.
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The interiors reflect the natural materials of the island, from limestone flooring to reclaimed jetty timbers repurposed as outdoor seating. Thoughtful details throughout celebrate the craftsmanship of Australian and South Australian artisans, furniture makers and local businesses.
Dark rendered and stained plywood walls were intentionally chosen to create a restful atmosphere, drawing the eye towards the natural beauty beyond the cabins and allowing the surrounding landscape to take centre stage.
