Loxton is a town located in the Riverland region of South Australia, on the southern banks of the Murray River. The town was named after William Charles Loxton, an early settler of the area.
Visitors will be impressed once they stop by the multi-awarded Loxton Historical Village, located along East Terrace. The buildings, complete with appropraite furnishings, are placed along a main street to represent community life in Loxton from 1890 to 1939. The village also features the 1956 Murray River Flood exhibition, showcasing pictures of the destruction and damage brought on by the flood. Read more...
There is also an education program offered to students to make them more familiar with life on the early days of the town.
Near the village is the Peppercorn Tree, with a plaque beside it identifying William Charles Loxton as the one who planted it in 1878. The tree is part of the Loxton Nature Walk, which takes visitors along the banks of the river and allows them to enjoy beautiful scenery.
Along Henry Street is another structure bearing historical importance, the Pines Loxton Historic House and Garden. Located on Henry Street, this building was built in 1909 and contains interesting furnishings of that time. Its well-maintained garden is also an ideal site for leisurely stroll, with lots of flowering plants adding colors and beauty to this estate.
There are also several wineries in town that visitors can drop by for wine tasting. One is the Australian Vintage Limited on Bookpurnong Road, which welcomes visitors Mondays to Saturdays. Located nearby is the Austvin Loxton Winery, a large winery established in 1948 and retails both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks made out of grapes. The Salena Estate Wines boasts of producing wine products that have been consistently winning awards and accolades from the wine making industry. It is also located along Bookpurnong Road.
Bird watching is one popular activity at the Katarapko Game Reserve and Conservation Park which is located over the Murray River. Its lagoons and banks are also ideal for swimming and canoeing. The well-stocked river provides ample opportunities for avid fishermen to indulge in their favorite pastime.
The Loxton Golf Club is a beautiful facility that is considered one of the top golf courses in the state. This 18-hole facility is located along Edwards Road.
There are several annual events that the town is noted for. The Loxton's Free Australia Day Breakfast is held at East Terrace, on the grounds of the Rotunda. Several civic organizations play hosts to a sumptuous breakfast available for free to guests.
The town's most popular event, however, is held every February. The annual Loxton Mardi Gras is a festival that visitors from all over the state and the country converge for. The parade of floats is its highlight, along East Terrace. There is also a running event held at the Loxton Oval.
Loxton also has an event held quarterly. The Loxton Historical Village Alive Day is designed for the whole family, with craft activities and exhibits that appeal to both adults and children. Refreshments and food also abound, with the presence of numerous food stalls. There are also several amusement rides to keep children of all ages entertained.