BRIGHT • • MOUNT BEAUTY • HARRIETVILLE BRIGHT & SURROUNDS

A LIFE LIVED OUTSIDE BRIGHT • MYRTLEFORD • MOUNT BEAUTY • HARRIETVILLE visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au INDEX WELCOME A LIFE LIVED OUTSIDE

Welcome to Bright & Surrounds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, IN A NUTSHELL 04 of mountains and rivers, lush fertile valleys and picturesque historic GETTING HERE 06 towns. Four distinct seasons make this region a great place to visit ACCOMMODATION 07 all year round. Here lies the stuff of indelible holiday memories. BEFORE NOW 08

• DISCOVER BRIGHT 10 and , , THE BUCKLAND VALLEY & • DISCOVER MYRTLEFORD 12 and , OVENS, HAPPY VALLEY & EUROBIN • DISCOVER MOUNT BEAUTY 14 and FALLS CREEK, DEDERANG, BOGONG VILLAGE, TAWONGA & • DISCOVER HARRIETVILLE 16 and SMOKO & FREEBURGH • DINNER PLAIN 18

SNOW BUSINESS 19 ACTIVITIES 20 22 MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK 24 TRACKS AND TRAILS 26 LAKES, RIVERS AND WATERFALLS 27 A CYCLING MECCA 28 TAKE A TOUR 30 FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD 32 THIRSTY WORK 34 RETAIL THERAPY 35 EVENTS CALENDAR 36 FAMILY FUN 38 LOCAL MARKETS 40

visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 01 REGIONAL MAP

SA NSW Sydney Adelaide Canberra

ACT VIC Bright

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 02 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 03 IN A NUTSHELL THERE ARE MANY REASONS WHY BRIGHT, MYRTLEFORD, MOUNT BRIGHT & BEAUTY AND HARRIETVILLE HAVE BEEN FAVOURITE DESTINATIONS SURROUNDS FOR GENERATIONS OF HOLIDAYMAKERS. HERE ARE JUST A FEW … SEE &

REALLY GREAT PICTURE PERFECT AUTUMN COLOUR & DO OUTDOORS VALLEYS COOL PLACES TO LAZE Dotted along the Ovens Fertile river flats and the Gracious avenues of poplars, and Rivers the four distinct seasons make maples, silver birches, pin BEAUTIFUL CASCADES towns are nestled at the these among the most oaks, golden and claret ashes Fainter Falls very foot of the Mount agriculturally rich areas of and liquid amber, many Falls Creek Falls where prime beef Buffalo and Alpine National planted early last century, Eurobin Falls, Mount Buffalo Parks. Snow-covered in and dairy cattle are raised, cloak the towns and villages Carmichael Falls, Dinner Plain winter creating a haven for fine wines produced and of the area in stunning downhill and cross-country there is an abundance of autumn colours. In summer, Ice Flower Falls, Hotham skiers, snowboarders and fresh food, much available these same trees offer TOP FISHING tobogganers, Mount Buffalo, at farm gates and markets welcome shade and a fine including local walnuts, , Mount place to lie down and catch Buckland River Bogong, chestnuts and hazelnuts, up on some long-overdue Mount Beauty Pondage and Falls Creek are also berries, olives, apples and all reading. fantastic warm season kinds of seasonal veggies. escapes. They offer excellent FESTIVAL FUN Lake Buffalo camping areas, lakes and FAB FOOD, FINE WINE A packed year-round AND GREAT BEER GET AIRBORNE waterfalls, bushwalking calendar of festivals and Paragliding over Bright Excellent restaurants and trails, horse-riding, mountain events celebrates all Microflights over Porepunkah biking and even paragliding cafés serve local seasonal things cultural, sporting, Gliding Mount Beauty adventures for thrill produce and offer cosy gastronomic and everything seekers. A photographer’s winter fires and shady in between. GREAT LAKES paradise, the mountains courtyards in summer. Many Lake Buffalo, Myrtleford offer spectacular sunset boutique wineries producing GREAT TOURING Lake Guy, Bogong Village an array of cool climate reds vistas, beautiful wildflower By motorbike, cycle or Rocky Valley Lake, Falls displays and the chance to and whites also offer top car, this area offers some Creek, see Australia’s native birds nosh and lovely views from of Australia’s best on and , Mount Buffalo, and animals in their natural their cellar door cafés and off-road touring including environment. restaurants. Locally grown the and Mount Beauty Pondage hops also flavour the area’s the Bogong Alpine Way TEE OFF award-winning artisan beer. touring loop. State forests Enjoy scenic 18 hole golf throughout the area also SUPER CYCLING courses at: offer a myriad of seasonal The area is famous as one of 4WD trails for off-road Mount Beauty Australia’s premier cycling enthusiasts. Myrtleford hubs with the Murray to Bright Mountains Rail Trail the HISTORY TO EXPLORE jewel in the crown. The A fascinating history shaped surrounding peaks offer by pioneering pastoralists, plenty of challenges for fortune-seeking gold miners serious riding enthusiasts and post-war migration. and there is continuous development of trails in the For more information visit mountain bike parks. visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 04 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 05 GETTING HERE FOUR DISTINCT SEASONS MAKE BRIGHT AND SURROUNDS A GREAT PLACE TO VISIT ALL YEAR ROUND.

BY ROAD BUSES BY AIR Bright is a 3½-hour drive V/Line runs daily bus airport is about 1¼ from Melbourne via the services to Myrtleford, Bright hours from Mount Beauty M31 Hume Freeway and & Mount Beauty. and about 1½ hours from the Snow Road C522 near vline.com.au Bright. Qantas, REX Regional Glenrowan or the B500 Alps Bus Link offers services Express and Virgin operate (Great Alpine Road) turnoff from Bright to Omeo via several flights each day near . Along the Harrietville, Mount Hotham from Melbourne and Sydney. way, enjoy the panoramic and Dinner Plain. Check airline websites for up views of Mount Buffalo to date flight information to omeobus.com.au towering over the Ovens and from Albury. Cars can be Valley. Myrtleford is about hired at the airport. During 25 minutes from the turnoff TRAINS the snow season Qantas and Bright about 45 minutes. Trains run daily from offers direct Sydney-Hotham ACCOMMODATION Harrietville is a further 20 Melbourne and Sydney via flights and transfers to the minute-drive beyond Bright Wangaratta, an hour’s drive resort. Something on offer for everyone, Bright and Surrounds has a huge selection of from Bright. on the Great Alpine Road. Visit mthotham.com.au accommodation. Cottages, villas, units and holiday homes are designed to suit couples, friends vline.com.au Mount Beauty is about an for more information. or the whole family. There are secluded retreats for romantic getaways, hotels, motels and hour from Myrtleford via beautiful bed and breakfasts. From modern to eco, quirky to cosy, you will find something to the Great Alpine Road and suit. If camping is more your style there are 20 holiday parks to choose from, with camping Happy Valley Road to the sites right on the river, powered sites with views or some sweet cabins. . Browse an extensive list of accommodation options at visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 06 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 07 BEFORE NOW HISTORY BEFORE EUROPEAN SETTLERS CAME TO THE REGION IN THE LATE 1820S, THE FIRST AUSTRALIANS HAD FOR MILLENNIA VISITED THE BUFFS’ HIGH COUNTRY DURING THE WARMER MONTHS FOLLOWING THE RIDGELINES FROM THE VALLEYS BELOW. MUST DO The arrival of explorers Hume and Hovell in 1824, and subsequent widespread land clearing of the valleys by the pastoralists who followed, was catastrophic for the original inhabitants whose displacement brought an end to cultural traditions dating back thousands of years. • Explore the Reform Hill gold The High Plains once frequented by traditional owners proved a boon for cattlemen who mining trail at Myrtleford found plentiful summer grazing for their stock. Huts were built for shelter and storage during • Visit historic Buckland mustering and today many remain, offering emergency shelter from the elements for hikers. Valley cemetery and Chinese monument • See Gold Era buildings and visit The Diggings and Chinese Swing Bridge at Wandiligong • Pan for gold in the Ovens River at Harrietville • See water races carved by gold miners on Bright’s Canyon Walk and the five- headed stamp battery on Morse’s Creek • Visit Wallace Hut near Falls Creek, ’s oldest cattlemen’s shelter • Walk the historic Cobungra Ditch trail near Dinner Plain • Visit the Harrietville Tronoh Dredge Hole, final resting place of the Tronoh Dredge, which was one of the largest electric powered mechanical dredges • Talk with local experts to discover more, visit local GOLDEN VALLEYS museums for interesting In the early 1850s rich alluvial gold deposits were discovered in the Buckland Valley bringing artefacts and information: thousands of gold seekers from around the world. By the mid-1850s it was home to several Bright Museum thousand Chinese miners who became the focus of a violent attack in an incident known as Harrietville Museum the Buckland Riot in July 1857, leading to their expulsion from the area. Kiewa Valley Museum Myrtleford then was a remote cattle run known as Myrtle Creek Run, with diggers crossing - Mount Beauty Myrtle Creek on their way to the goldfields. Discoveries were made along the Ovens River to Harrietville and from (re-named Bright after the 19th century political and social Old School Museum reformer, John Bright, in 1862) to Wandiligong (originally known as Growlers Creek). Reef - Myrtleford mining came next, Harrietville was the home of one of the world’s largest electric powered mechanical dredges.

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 08 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 09 BRIGHT MUST DO DISCOVER BRIGHT • See the town in all its and POREPUNKAH, WANDILIGONG, seasonal glory during Autumn or Spring THE BUCKLAND VALLEY & MOUNT BUFFALO • Cool off in the Ovens River or splash about in the Splash Park on a hot day • Enjoy an award-winning boutique ale or wine at a local cellar door • Cycle the Rail Trail to Porepunkah or Wandiligong • Experience the thrill of hurtling downhill at Bright Mystic Mountain Bike Park • Admire the mountain panorama from Huggins Lookout • Discover Bright on foot, pick up a Walks and Trails Guide from the Visitor Centre, Justifiably one of Victoria’s favourite year-round holiday places, Bright and surrounding or download it online villages are known as much for its spectacular autumn colour as for its perfect location on • Be dazzled by the stunning the Ovens River, nestled between the Mount Buffalo and Alpine National Parks. views to Buffalo over a It serves as a great base from which to explore the whole region – for day trips to the snow in leisurely lunch at a local winter or during the rest of the year, to experience the myriad of special places and outdoor winery adventures on offer in and around the Ovens and Kiewa Valleys and the spectacular High • Get airborne on a Country above. Spring is a particularly special time of the year with mature gardens crowded thrilling paragliding flight or with blooms of dogwoods, daffodils, irises, roses, annuals and everything else in between. microlight aircraft and see it There’s a lot to love about this place because apart from river swimming, bike riding, camping, all from 500 metres above wildlife spotting and horse riding, there’s fly fishing, golf, tennis, croquet, bowls and a stack of Bright and the Buckland fun and funky festivals. Talk to a local at the Information Centre to find out exactly where to Valley stay, what to do, where to eat and what’s on in Bright any time of the day or year. Or find all • Soak up some history in the information you need at: visitbright.com.au Wandiligong or the Buckland Valley WANDILIGONG POREPUNKAH THE BUCKLAND • Stock up on seasonally Just a few minutes by road Porepunkah is a laid-back VALLEY available local produce from Bright or an easy five village six kilometres from A few minutes’ drive from straight from the grower’s kilometre peddle on the Bright on the Great Alpine door Bright, this is the beautiful purpose-built cycle trail, this Road. Built around the valley of the Buckland , lilo, blow-up boat • Float picture-perfect village on junction of the Buckland River. Nestled at the base of or tube down the Ovens or Morse’s Creek is tucked away and Ovens Rivers, it is the Mount Buffalo the valley is Buckland rivers in a jewel of a valley patch- nearest town to Mount dotted with dairy and alpaca • Tour the region, find out worked with apple orchards Buffalo National Park, which farms, vineyards, nut groves the best secrets with a and nut groves. dominates the skyline to the and orchards, as well as guided tour The Diggings Walk with its south, and the entry point for some of the best boutique Chinese Swing Bridge is a the beautiful Buckland Valley. accommodation in the great way to discover the North East. history of this magical little town.

visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I #lovebright I 11 MYRTLEFORD MUST DO DISCOVER MYRTLEFORD • See the town in all its and GAPSTED, OVENS, HAPPY VALLEY & EUROBIN seasonal glory during Autumn or Spring • Fill a basket with fresh local fare at the weekly Produce Market • Celebrate Myrtleford’s Italian heritage at the fabulous La Fiera festival each May • Explore Myrtleford’s rich history at the Old School Museum • Hug the Big Tree, a huge centuries-old River Red Gum near the centre of town • Hike from the bottom or drive to the top of Reform Hill and enjoy the panoramic views from the Lookout • Ride the Rail Trail to Gapsted, drink in the valley views over a glass or two Discover an amazing • The major hub of the rich Ovens Valley agricultural region, this lovely town with its Middle Eastern bazaar right in the heart of town welcoming avenues of mature poplars and pin oaks is set against a beautiful mountain backdrop. Visit a farm gate and stock • Myrtleford is rich with history, known for the distinctive corrugated iron tobacco drying kilns up on all things berry or visit one of Australia’s oldest dotted throughout the countryside. The town is also fast becoming the place for a little retail walnut farms therapy, with offerings such as a Middle Eastern bazaar, designer clothes, organic goods, and unique homewares. A great selection of country pubs, tasty cafés and a coffee roaster Watch pumpkin seed oil • makes a visit to Myrtleford a must. A key town for any journey along the Murray to Mountains being pressed and sample Rail Trail, it’s the perfect distance to stay and break up a ride from Bright to Beechworth or different types of pumpkin Wangaratta. seed products • Sample delicious cool GAPSTED OVENS & HAPPY EUROBIN climate reds and whites from the region’s family-owned Taylor’s Gap at Gapsted VALLEY A 10-minute drive along the wineries marks a grand gateway This lovely part of the valley towards Bright from to Bright and Surrounds, Ovens along the Great Alpine Discover Happy Valley world boasts picturesque • the sublime beauty of Road. It is well known for its delights; an olive grove and scenery, locally produced the Ovens Valley with its farm gates and spectacular boutique wines wines, olives and a unique vistas to Mount Buffalo and pumpkin seed oil producer. views of Mount Buffalo. Feed farm animals, • beyond. Gapsted is a small From Myrtleford, the tiny It also provides a perfect including deer, emus and community of farms nestled rest stop along the Murray ostriches in Eurobin community of Ovens is a at the foot of the Stanley five-minute drive or an easy to Mountains Rail Trail at Ranges. Here the fertile five kilometre cycle along the Eurobin Station, which is soils produce fat beef and Rail Trail. At Ovens take the equipped with fresh water dairy cows, grapes, berries, turnoff to Happy Valley. toilet facilities. vegetables and nuts. visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I #myrtleford I 13 MOUNT BEAUTY MUST DO DISCOVER MOUNT BEAUTY • Catch a fish in the Kiewa and FALLS CREEK, DEDERANG, BOGONG River or the Pondage VILLAGE, TAWONGA & TAWONGA SOUTH • Fill a basket at the Community Market, held on the first Saturday of each month • Visit the Alpine Discovery Centre to learn about Mount Beauty’s beginnings as a purpose-built town for workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme • Saddle up for a trail ride and explore the region on horseback • Hike up . (One for the fit and well prepared, the walk is steep and the weather highly changeable) • Check in for a weekend of great music at the Mount Beauty Music Festival or Sweet Valley Sounds A 30km scenic drive from Bright, the hub of the beautiful Kiewa Valley is surrounded by the Alpine National Park. Mount Beauty a perfect base for family holidays and lovers of outdoor Ride Big Hill Mountain Bike • activities of all kinds. Park, one of the original MTB parks Settle in at Mount Beauty, stroll along the Kiewa River or just sit and relax, soaking in the stunning valley vistas. It’s an easy gateway to the state’s highest peaks, including Mount • Savour a local craft beer, or cool climate boutique wine Bogong and Falls Creek, where you will find some of the state’s best hiking and skiing. The incredible mountainous backdrops create the perfect conditions for gliding; enjoy a bird’s • Take a short walk to lovely Fainter Falls or around the eye view of the National Park. Mount Beauty is one of the original mountain bike playgrounds, pondage with tracks and trails to challenge and thrill. Paddle a canoe on Lake • BOGONG VILLAGE TAWONGA DEDERANG Guy in Bogong Village and enjoy a BBQ afterwards at the Halfway between Mount The peaceful community of The gateway to the Kiewa excellent lakeside facilities Beauty and Falls Creek, Tawonga lies in the upper Valley, this pretty country Bogong Village is a restful reaches of the Kiewa Valley. town is best known for its • A day at The Dederang Picnic Races place to kick back in a Surrounded by beautiful annual picnic race day. On tranquil environment countryside with views to the first Saturday of the year down the fresh • Float surrounded by the Mount Bogong, Tawonga is the tiny population of just mountain water of the Kiewa Alpine National Park and ideal for family holidays with over 400 swells to more than River overlooking Lake Guy. The great camping facilities and 6000. One of Australia’s perfect location for some many walking and cycling oldest race meetings, the serious R&R. For those who tracks and trails. Here the Dederang Picnic Races has prefer a more active holiday, trout fishing is so good, been a premier event on the village offers a great there are guided tours of the Victoria’s country racing base for all kinds of outdoor Kiewa River, with a master fly calendar since 1865. adventuring, whatever the fisherman. season.

visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I #mtbeauty I 15 HARRIETVILLE MUST DO DISCOVER HARRIETVILLE • Experience mountain and SMOKO & FREEBURGH majesty hiking the Bon Accord or Bungalow Spur Tracks to Mount Feathertop from Harrietville • Australia’s annual national bluegrass & old time music festival • Cycling to Mount Hotham as part of the 7 Peaks Challenge • Pan for gold in the Ovens River • Pick your own succulent summer blueberries • Walk the 30 minute trail around Tronoh Dredge • Hook a trout for dinner at the trout and salmon farm • Delve into local history at the Harrietville Museum • Taste a delicious home- made ice cream, chutneys, condiments and lavender goods • Ride the Rail Trail from Harrietville to the Trout Farm • Let the kids loose in the Right at the foot of Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop, 25km from Bright at the end of fantastic local playground the valley stretch of the B500 Great Alpine Road, this picturesque town is an ideal all- season holiday destination. • Visit a berry farm gate and select your favourite berries In winter its proximity to Mount Hotham (30km away) and Falls Creek (75km) ski resorts make it an accessible and affordable base for lovers of all kinds of snow sports. During the ‘green’ seasons, Harrietville is a perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. Hikers and cyclists are drawn to the challenging mountain roads and trails in and around the town, but this scenic village by the Ovens River is also a fantastic place to simply relax and shrug off the stresses of city life. HISTORY SMOKO & FREEBURGH Harrietville was originally a pastoral property Discover the hamlets of Smoko and named for Harriet Tisdale, one of the few Freeburgh on the scenic drive along the European women living in the area in the Great Alpine Road hugging the Ovens River mid-19th century. The town boomed after between Bright and Harrietville. Well known rich gold discoveries were made in 1852 and for locally grown chestnuts, hazelnuts and the legacy of the gold seekers is evident walnuts as well as berries and a variety of today in the landscape shaped by mining. vegetables. A number of lovely camping Tronoh Dredge is one such place, one of options are available, both commercial three local waterholes created by gold operators and bush camping all along dredging. the river.

visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I #harrietville I 17 DISCOVER DINNER PLAIN

DINNER PLAIN MUST DO

• Cycle or walk the fantastic 24km return Hotham-Dinner Plain Trail through the Alpine National Park • Ride the many mountain Dinner Plain is an alpine village 1500m above sea level, bike trails or fine tune your 13km to the east of Mount Hotham and 45km to the west THERE’S SNOW BUSINESS… skills on the pump track of Omeo on the Great Alpine Road. SOME OF THE STATE’S BEST SKIING, SNOWBOARDING, CROSS- • Walk to Carmichael Falls, a Surrounded by the Alpine National Park, State Forest and COUNTRY AND SNOW PLAY AREAS ARE A MERE HOP AWAY FROM 2.5km return moderate walk pastoral leases, it is well known for its unique architectural into the Alpine National Park, style, inspired by the historic cattlemen’s huts of the BRIGHT AND ITS SURROUNDING TOWNS AND VILLAGES MAKING right next to the village High Country using materials of timber, local stone and THEM GREAT BASES FOR DAY TRIPS AND GEAR HIRE. • Tubing fun, winter or corrugated iron. summer, enjoy the thrill of Open throughout the year, Dinner Plain is a great family flying down the mountain on MOUNT HOTHAM of the run. Cross-country retail outlets, schools and winter destination with a beginner-level ski run and a tube AND DINNER PLAIN skiing is also popular here organised activities are many cross-country ski trails. Nature lovers also head to with over 35km of groomed available. Have a hit of tennis or play Mount Hotham is known as • Dinner Plain during the warmer months to experience a trails. There are regular bus Visit fallscreek.com.au outdoor chess the mountain for the serious number of fine multi-use trails radiating from the village, transfers between Hotham skier and is Victoria’s highest • Frisbee (disc) golf on offering excellent walking and bird-watching opportunities and Dinner Plain and services Australia’s highest course resort, offering amazing 360 MOUNT BUFFALO amongst snow gum forests and sub-alpine landscapes in from Bright and Harrietville. Mount Buffalo National Park • Learn to ski or snow board full wildflower bloom. degree panoramas over the snow-covered slopes to the Go to visitdinnerplain.com.au provides winter activities during the winter months visitdinnerplain.com.au horizon. There are many ideal for first time snow Night Skiing/Boarding • goers, or anyone looking to under lights, so much fun in accommodation options, FALLS CREEK have a bit of fun with the the winter wonderland restaurants and day spas on- Victoria’s largest alpine mountain to discover. resort is located 31km from kids. Tobogganing and snow • Kids love the unique play activities are great fun Visit mthotham.com.au the Mount Beauty township. playground, in the theme with for the family or try a guided the wild brumbies is Hotham’s During winter, bus transfers Dinner Plain snow shoeing tour to really sister resort and is just 10 are available from Mount • Take the binoculars on experience this beautiful minutes down the road. More Beauty. Falls Creek is a stroll around the cross winter wonderland. Venture than 200 chalets are nestled designed for all abilities, with country trails for a spot of off the beaten track for amongst the snow gums. snowboarding, cross country bird watching cross-country skiing with Dinner Plain offers a gentle skiing, downhill skiing and • Visit the Alpine Bog area 14km of trails on offer over beginner ski run and great snow parks. An excellent of the village, home to the range of accommodation, the plateau. endangered Alpine Tree Frog tobogganing and snow play with facilities at the bottom dining options, tours, Go to visitmountbuffalo.com.au

visitdinnerplain.com.au I #dinnerplain I 18 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 19 A LIFE LIVED OUTSIDE, AND ACTIVITIES TO MATCH

TOP ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES TOP OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES TRADITIONAL ACTIVITIES SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT Get airborne ... paragliding, microlights Cycling; road, Rail Trail and mountain biking Touring; road bike or car, follow our winding Enjoy the ultimate adventure picnic hanging and gliding roads to spectacular scenery from the cliffs of Mount Buffalo Walking and hiking, the perfect way to get Dirt motorbike riding back to nature Three golf courses to explore and to Caving through Buffalo's granite rivers challenge Waterskiing Four wheel driving. Not an enthusiast? Take Horse riding in the High Plains a tour and be amazed , including real grass courts in Abseiling and rockclimbing Tennis Croquet under the elms in Bright down the river on a lilo Myrtleford Skiing and snowboarding Floating Tubing at Dinner Plain Bowls at the local green Hiking or running Victoria's highest peaks Kayaking or canoeing Hire an electric bike and tour the Rail Trail ; massage, facial or body wrap Snow play, tobogganing and snowshoeing Pamper Fishing in fresh water rivers and lakes

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 20 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 21 ALPINE NATIONAL PARK VICTORIA’S LARGEST NATIONAL PARK, COVERING 646,000 HECTARES, IS A PLACE TO EXPERIENCE THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN OUTDOORS IN ALL ITS MAGNIFICENT GUISES. ONCE THE SNOW HAS MELTED OFF THE MOUNTAIN PEAKS THEY ARE TRANSFORMED INTO AMAZING PLACES TO HIKE AND TREK AND CAMP, WATCH BIRDS, EXPLORE HISTORY, CYCLE DOWN, FLY OVER, TOUR AROUND, SWIM AND FISH IN AND OBSERVE UNIQUE FLORA AND FAUNA.

Bright & Surrounds are the best places is one of Victoria’s iconic walks traversing Camping: Pitching a tent overnight or for ABORIGINAL TRADITIONAL in the state to discover the north beautiful alpine landscapes, snow gum a few days is a fantastic way to experience OWNERS eastern sections of the Alpine National forests, grassy plains and historic huts the beauty and serenity of the park with Park, including Mount Hotham, Mount over a three-day hike. bush camping permitted throughout much Parks Victoria acknowledges the Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Victoria Feathertop and Mount Bogong. A Visit: parkweb.vic.gov.au of the area. Designated camping areas number of Parks Victoria-approved tour may be found at: - including its parks and reserves. Through Cattlemen’s Huts: Over 100 of these their cultural traditions, the Bidawal, operators guide bushwalks, horse rides, JB Plain between Hotham Village and historic shelters are dotted throughout the • Dhudhuroa, Gunaikurnai, Jaithmathang, bird-watching, canoe and cycling treks Dinner Plain on the Great Alpine Road Park including the oldest, National Trust Taungurong and Nindi-Ngudjam Ngarigu year-round. Go to parkweb.vic.gov.au for (walk in only) classified Wallace Hut near Falls Creek, Monero identify the Alpine National Park details. Buckety Plain, Raspberry Hill and easily reached via a short 45 minute, 1.5km • as their Traditional Country. The Mitambuta walk from the Road. Langfords West (horse yards) on the and Taugaurong identify the Mount Buffalo HIGHLIGHTS Bogong High Plains east of Falls Creek Flora and Fauna: The Park supports over National Park as their Traditional Country. Walking: Join the Walking 1100 native plant species of which 12 are • Mountain Creek at the foot of Mount Visit parkweb.vic.gov.au for detailed Track from Harrietville via Bon Accord endemic to the park and 38 of national Bogong near Tawonga information or visit the Mount Beauty, Spur Track or Mount Beauty on Mount significance. This is also home to the Snow: Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Bright or Myrtleford Visitor Information Bogong’s Staircase Spur. This iconic walk endangered Mountain Pygmy Possum, Dinner Plain are all located in the National Centres for advice about what to see can take eight weeks to complete, but Smoky Mouse, Broad-toothed Rat, Park – skiing, snowboarding and snow play and do in the Alpine and Mount Buffalo many other walks, from 30 minute strolls Powerful Owl, Spotted Tree Frog and is abundant during winter. National Parks. to overnight hikes, are available. She-oak Skink. The 37km Falls-Hotham Alpine Crossing visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 22 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 23 MOUNT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK MOUNT BUFFALO IS AS IMPRESSIVE UP CLOSE AS IT IS FROM AFAR, ITS GRANITE CLIFFS AND ROCKY OUTCROPS RISING UP FROM THE OVENS VALLEY FLOOR COMMANDING ATTENTION, BEGGING TO BE EXPLORED.

from which to sail forth in a hang glider, The Chalet: Walk around the historic guest Camping: The camping area at Lake In winter, against a blue sky and capped sheer rocky faces to abseil down, or climb house, built in 1910, or enjoy a picnic at the Catani is well equipped and available with snow, the view to Buffalo is simply up, and steep downhill grades for thrill- lookout below. from Melbourne Cup weekend to the start breathtaking. seekers on two wheels. Guided caving is Plants: More than 550 species of plants of winter each year (check with Parks An easy 35km drive from Bright or around also available. are protected by the National Park. Victoria as it is very popular during warmer 50km from Myrtleford, the 31,000 hectare Throughout the warmer months, flowering months). Pre-bookings are essential. For National Park is a fantastic all-season HIGHLIGHTS annuals and shrubs put on a spectacular the more adventurous, remote sites at destination. In winter it’s a great place to Walking: Mount Buffalo has 23 walking display. Of special significance is the Rocky Creek and Mount Mcleod offer take the family for a fun day tobogganing trails to suit any age and level of fitness, Buffalo Sallee, a species of eucalypt found excellent hiking and camping experiences. or cross country skiing. Any other time ranging from 45 minute strolls to six hour only in this park. Snow: The perfect place to introduce of the year it’s a nature lover’s paradise, hikes. All are well defined and signposted. Animals: The Park offers food and shelter the family to snow. During the cooler offering more than 90km of walking tracks, Several walks feature beautiful waterfalls to a diversity of mammals including months Mount Buffalo becomes a waterfalls, beautiful wildflowers, forests including Lower Eurobin, Ladies Bath, kangaroos, wallabies, possums, gliders winter playground offering snow play, of snow gums, mossy plains, abundant Upper Eurobin and Rollasons Falls, all with and wombats. Birds include Peregrine snowshoeing, tobogganing and cross- wildlife, picnic places and superb bush picnic places equipped with tables and Falcons and Superb Lyrebirds, often seen country skiing. camping. fireplaces. Amazing 360 degree views can scurrying across roads and tracks early in visitmountbuffalo.com For those inclined to adventure, Mount be enjoyed from the highest accessible the morning on Mount Buffalo. Buffalo is equally well endowed with cliffs peak, .

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 24 visitmountbuffalo.com I #mtbuffalo I 25 LAKES, RIVERS AND WATERFALLS BRIGHT AND ITS SURROUNDING VILLAGES ARE DEFINED BY THE RIVERS AND CREEKS THAT RUN THROUGH THEM. THE OVENS, BUCKLAND AND KIEWA RIVERS CARVE A PATH AMIDST OUR VALLEYS PROVIDING TRANQUIL SPACES TO EMBRACE OUR ALPINE ENVIRONMENT AND IMMERSE IN OUR PURE WATERS … TRACKS AND TRAILS RIVERS LAKES WATERFALLS THE MOUNTAINS PROVIDE DRAMATIC BACKDROPS TO ANY WALK Water is part of the lifestyle Along the valley floor and Mount Buffalo National Park IN BRIGHT & SURROUNDS. THERE ARE SO MANY TO CHOOSE of Bright & Surrounds. The on the alpine peaks the offers some spectacular FROM, DIFFERENT TRACKS AND TRAILS THAT SHOWCASE THE pristine Ovens, Buckland lakes provide space for waterfalls. Take a short stroll PICTURESQUE TOWNSHIPS, RIVERS, FORESTS AND WILDLIFE OF and Kiewa Rivers create relaxation and activities. Go into Lady Bath Falls and THE AREA. the perfect retreat from the water skiing on Lake Buffalo Eurobin Falls or a longer summer’s heat. Skim stones or kayaking and stand up walk to Rollasons Falls and across the pools or catch a paddle boarding on Lake Dicksons Falls. Stroll along the fresh water rivers or around one of the beautiful lakes; there are paths suitable fish for dinner. Fossick for Catani. Try your luck fly- Fainter Falls is definitely for prams, bikes or wheelchairs. Shadowed by two National Parks, the region offers world- hidden treasure, plunge into fishing at Lake Guy or the worth the visit, located on renowned walks, including short walks to stunning waterfalls, or challenging day walks to the natural swimming holes, or Mount Beauty Pondage. the Bogong High Plains Road state’s highest mountains. Popular walks include the Canyon Walk in Bright, Tronoh Dredge spot local wildlife, platypus Cool off and swim to the between Mount Beauty and in Harrietville, Mount Beauty Gorge Walk, Reform Hill in Myrtleford, Eurobin Falls in Mount or trout. Dotted with picnic pontoon at Tronoh Dredge Falls Creek or take a walk Buffalo National Park or hiking the Razorback to Mt Feathertop in the Alpine National Park. facilities and walking tracks, or simply walk around any through the snowgums There is truly no better way to explore our region than on two feet. Pick up a copy of the come and soak up the of the lakes and enjoy the to see the picturesque Bright & Surrounds Walks & Trails Guide at a local Visitor Information Centre or download it tranquillity. natural beauty. Carmichael Falls near from visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au Dinner Plain. Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 26 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 27 A CYCLING MECCA BREEZE THROUGH THE VALLEYS AND TAKE ON THE PEAKS

Welcome to the State’s premier cycling Look for this logo: ROAD CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKING destination, a mecca for enthusiastic Beautiful scenery, fresh air and exhilarating Fast becoming known as a key destination amateurs on cross-bikes, family groups with downhill runs reward those willing to take on for keen mountain bikers, the region offers kids on trainer wheels, mountain biking the challenges of conquering the mountain a multitude of mountain bike tracks to suit adventurers and serious road warriors. peaks. There are many great rides to suit all levels of fitness and experience. Two Bright and its surrounding towns and all levels of fitness. Cycle shops are a mine renowned mountain bike parks; Mount villages, mountains and valleys offer every of information about the best local rides Beauty’s Big Hill Mountain Bike Park and imaginable terrain, knockout scenery and or call into the Visitor Information Centres Bright’s Mystic MTB Park, offer an excellent challenges large and small to suit anyone and for advice, maps and brochures. Two of the range of trails and single tracks to suit all everyone on two wheels. Bicycle transport iconic local favourites with the hard-core levels. Falls Creek, Harrietville and Dinner services are available and there are a number road riders are: Plain also have heaps on offer. There is of tour operators in the area offering tailor- Bright to Mount Buffalo chalet return: A mountain bike hire and transport available. made packages and guided cycling holidays EASY PEDALLING hard 70km uphill and thrilling downhill bike Find out more at: thedirtydozen.com.au from the sedate to the adventurous. This area is home to the famous Murray to ride for the serious road cyclist. Mountains Rail Trail, a 100km fully sealed Myrtleford, Bright and Mount Beauty Queen Victoria loop: a spectacular 235km cycle path along the old Wangaratta to cycle stores hire out bikes and equipment trek from Falls Creek via the Bogong High Bright railway line. The trail suits all riders including bike trailers for the kids. Pick up a Plains Road to Omeo, Mount Hotham, Bright, with a gentle gradient and offering beautiful Cycle Guide and ride maps from the cycle the Tawonga Gap, Mount Beauty and back vistas, wineries, farm gates and the lovely stores or call into a Visitor Information to Falls. A favourite training circuit for elite villages of the Ovens Valley along the way. Centre. Cycle friendly businesses offer a athletes and anyone up for a challenge. range of cycle-specific services, facilities and The Trail can be tackled in short stages, More information: information, so you get the most out of your overnighting along the way. brightandsurrounds.com.au holiday on two wheels. Full details at murraytomountains.com.au

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 28 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 29 TAKE A TOUR FANTASTIC SCENIC DRIVES CAN BE ENJOYED IN THIS AREA INCLUDING THE GREAT ALPINE ROAD AND THE BOGONG-ALPINE WAY TOURING LOOP.

Both drives are well worth a leisurely Bright to Mount Buffalo via Porepunkah. approach with picturesque villages offering Just 35km from Bright and well worth the plenty of accommodation options, farm drive, Mount Buffalo is a spectacular National gates offering fresh seasonal produce, Park of sheer cliffs, waterfalls, wildflowers countless picnic places and along the way, and more than 90km of walking trails. simply breathtaking scenery. The routes Bright-Mount Beauty-Tawonga-Happy are all suitable for car, motorbike or cycle Valley-Ovens-Bright. Allow a half or a touring, however in winter, mountain roads full day to take in the panoramic views of may be affected by icy conditions. Chains Mount Bogong, Victoria’s highest peak, from must be carried during the snow season. Tawonga Gap and to explore the towns and VicRoads has up to date information on road villages dotted along the lovely Kiewa and conditions. Go to vicroads.vic.gov.au for the Happy Valleys, returning via the Great Alpine latest road and weather conditions. Road at Ovens. There are many farm gates to The Great Alpine Road – B500. 308km explore along the way. one way. Follow the delightful Ovens Valley from the Hume Freeway turnoff near There are many 4WD trails to explore in this Wangaratta, through Gapsted and Myrtleford, area. Two of the easiest and most enjoyable Porepunkah, Bright and Harrietville before are: the spectacular climb up and over the Mount Mount Porepunkah Circuit: From Bright the Hotham plateau, descending via Omeo to the trail is 40km, offers excellent views from at Bairnsdale. Dinner Plain, the summit and is usually accessible all year 13km from Mount Hotham Resort, is a great round. place to stop for a stretch and some lunch or Clear Spot Buckland Valley Circuit: 33km, an overnight stay. starting from Bright and taking in pine The Bogong-Alpine Way touring loop, a fully plantations and excellent views of Mount sealed 235km road, is another great way to Buffalo and Feathertop from Clear Spot. NB. experience Victoria’s High Country and the Beware of logging trucks on this trail. Alpine National Park. Starting at Bright, head for Mount Beauty, Bogong Village, then Falls Don’t feel like driving? Leave it to someone Creek to Omeo, looping back to Bright via else and book a tour with a local operator. Dinner Plain and Mount Hotham. Please note that this is a seasonal road, closed in winter For more information: due to snow cover. visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 30 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 31 Food Lovers’ Festivals & Events

WANDI NUT FESTIVAL Wandiligong I April Cooking demos by leading chefs, tastings and markets featuring locally grown walnuts, chestnuts, hazelnuts and pecans FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD HIGH COUNTRY HARVEST FRESH FOOD AND GREAT DINING EXPERIENCES ARE SYNONYMOUS All towns & villages I May WITH BRIGHT AND ITS SURROUNDING TOWNS, VILLAGES AND Local restaurants, cafés, COUNTRYSIDE. wineries and farm gates feature seasonal menus The fertile river valleys, a climate blessed Regular markets are: matched with local wines. with four distinct seasons and a heritage • Bright Make It, Bake It, Grow It Market Activities include gourmet steeped in the Italian traditions that - third Saturday of each month bicycle tours, classes with celebrate the making and sharing of good • Myrtleford Indoor Market renowned local chefs, food and wine are evident in the array - every Saturday progressive dinners, jam making and treats at fireside of superb local produce on the menu at • Mount Beauty Community Market village bonfires. the many excellent restaurants, cafés and - first Saturday of the month wineries of the area. Pick up a copy of Victoria’s High Country Expect hatted restaurants, cooking schools, Food and Wine Guide to regional produce LA FIERA coffee roasters and a strong café culture. of the North East at the Bright, Myrtleford or Myrtleford I May Japanese, Thai, Italian and modern Australian Mount Beauty Visitor Information Centres. Celebrates Myrtleford’s menus are created with local produce. Bright and the surrounding area boasts a Italian heritage. Features Throughout the region you can indulge number of gourmet businesses creating Gnocchi making with degustation dinners, tapas, true Italian pizza fine bespoke products such as chocolate, the Nonnas, Italian food and incredible pub grub. pumpkin seed oil and olive oils. Fine markets, the Longest Pasta Prime beef, top notch dairy, nuts of all kinds, chutneys and jams created with the freshest Lunch, masterclasses, berries, tomatoes, herbs, stone and citrus produce grown in the valleys, along with food & wine tours. fruits, apples, olives, all kinds of vegetables sweet treats like ice-cream and fudge. like sweet corn and asparagus and of course Great local food is also celebrated at a grapes, grow happily in this slice of heaven. number of not-to-be-missed festivals held Produce markets and visiting farm gates are throughout the year where cooking and a great way to sample seasonal fresh food tasting classes with leading chefs and as well as locally made jams and preserves, winemakers are regular highlights. chocolate, oils and ice-creams.

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 32 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 33 THIRSTY WORK COLD WINTERS AND HOT SUMMERS COMBINE WITH RICH VALLEY SOILS TO PRODUCE PERFECT GROWING CONDITIONS FOR VINES AND FULL-BODIED GRAPES.

Vineyards were first established here during fires and sample local port or delicious the 19th century and today over 30 cool stickies. climate grape varietals including Sauvignon Beer lovers are also well catered for with Blanc, Durif, Sangiovese, Shiraz, Prosecco boutique breweries in Mount Beauty and and Pinot Gris are grown in the area, Bright offering a range of crafted ales RETAIL THERAPY with around a dozen cellar doors dotted flavoured with locally grown hops from throughout the Ovens and Kiewa, Buckland the Ovens Valley. Regular brewery tours You will be spoilt for choice and sure to find that special something in Bright and its and Happy Valleys. and tastings of a range of award-winning surrounding towns and villages. Boasting an array of fine commercial outlets ranging from Many cellar doors feature restaurants or cafés beers are available as well as hands-on specialty stores to op shops with everything in between, Bright & Surrounds is sure to have offering fresh local produce and beautiful brewing workshops with the masters. Visit something to suit all tastes, styles and budgets. If you are looking for a unique piece or gift views of the surrounding countryside. These brightandsurrounds.com.au for details, or our boutique stores are just the spot, after hours of browsing, a coffee in one of the many are great places to indulge in leisurely take a tour of all of the boutique breweries of cafés might be on the cards. Many stores are open every day of the week and all year round, lunches, meet the winemakers and learn the region via the High Country Brewery Trail. so come enjoy our range and pick up some original items, or take advantage of some of the amazing produce on offer to prolong your stay even when you return home. the art of pairing food and wine. The cooler See more at victoriashighcountry.com.au months are a great time to enjoy cosy open For more information: visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 34 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 35 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS BRIGHT, MYRTLEFORD, MOUNT BEAUTY AND HARRIETVILLE CELEBRATE FESTIVALS AND EVENTS ALL YEAR ROUND.

JANUARY APRIL SEPTEMBER Dederang Races Alp De Buffalo Alfred 6hr MTB Ride Cool Summer Music Festival Buffalo Stampede Myrtleford Alpine Audax Alpine Classic Autumn Festival Motorbike Rally Bonjour Bright Bright Fun Run OCTOBER Australia's Biggest Geebung Polo, Easter Harrietville 1/2 Marathon Duck Race High Country Easter Festival Swagger Music Festival Myrtleford Bush Market Mount Beauty Music Festival Myrtleford and District FEBUARY Wandiligong Nut Festival Agriculture Show Sweet Valley Sounds Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Spring Festival Tournament Australian Adventure Bright Oktoberfest Travel Film Festival MAY 4 Peaks Alpine Climb Mitta to Mount Beauty MARCH Great Alpine Pick Harrietville The Myrtleford Festival La Fiera Myrtleford NOVEMBER Brighter Days Charity JUNE 4 Peaks Alpine Climb Festival Official Snow Season Bright Iconics Rod Run Peaks Challenge Opening Bright 24 hr MTB Race Mountaingrass Harrieville AUGUST Kangaroo Hoppet DECEMBER Australian Sled Dog Tour of Bright Challenge Tour Fondo Myrtleford "Golden Spurs" Rodeo Carols by Candlelight

visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 37 FAMILY FUN

Families of all ages and sizes will find climbing frames and new places to explore. Hill Mountain Bike Park in Mount Beauty offer take you to Porepunkah or Wandilligong something to enjoy and share together in Bright has a splash park, on the river’s edge trails for those new to mountain biking and for lunch. Combine a play in the park with a Bright & Surrounds. No matter what the in Centenary Park; hours of entertainment as downhill tracks for the seasoned riders. ride around the Pondage in Mount Beauty or season, there are loads of activities, from water squirts, dances and cools on the hot Families have been coming to the region for explore the Ovens River Trail in Myrtleford. snow play in Winter to exploring rivers and summer days. years for their annual camping holiday. With Ride the trail from Harrietville to the Trout lakes in Summer, from playing in the Autumn Hand feed deer, emus and ostriches, pat the 20 holiday parks to choose from and many Farm. leaves, to smelling the Spring blooms. goats and enjoy the chickens wandering options to bush camp there is an adventure It doesn’t matter how old you are, it’s the around your feet. Catch wild trout, or for all. Toast marshmallows over a camp SNOW FUN simple pleasures that create smiles, a movie improve your chances with a visit to the trout fire and share stories of the day over dinner Winter is exciting for families. Create at the cinema, finding a favourite in a lolly and salmon farm. together. memories for life with a first time visit to the shop or enjoying homemade ice cream or snow. Take a day trip to Mount Buffalo to fudge. Lose each other in the hedge maze TWEEN AND TEENS RIDES AS A FAMILY build a snowman, throw a snowball or just to or have a hit of tennis. For tweens and teens a day floating down The region offers so much for families on experience the sensation of walking on snow. one of the rivers is quintessential, pack bikes. The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Alternatively Dinner Plain offers affordable YOUNG FAMILIES your sunscreen and a snack for hours of offers a safe, smooth path for all riders, bike options and a great location to learn how to For the younger generations there are a drifting. Spend a day on a mountain bike, trailers and training wheels. There are some ski or snowboard. number of parks, filled with swings, slides, Mystic Mountain Bike Park in Bright and Big great 5-6km rides on formed Rail Trails that

Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 38 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 39 BRIGHT, MYRTLEFORD & MOUNT BEAUTY VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES ARE OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK FROM 9AM TO 5PM CALL 1800 111 885

START YOUR BRIGHT & SURROUNDS HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE AT ANY OF OUR THREE ACCREDITED VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES. Friendly staff and volunteers offer a wealth of local knowledge and can help you with where to eat, what to do with the kids, where to hire a bike, tour bookings, and provide up to date information about our festivals and events. ALPINE MYRTLEFORD MOUNT BEAUTY VISITOR INFORMATION VISITOR INFORMATION VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE: CENTRE: CENTRE: 119 Gavan Street Post Office Complex, 31 Bogong High Plains Road 1800 111 885 Great Alpine Road 1800 111 885 visitbright.com.au 03 5755 0514 visitmountbeauty.com.au [email protected] visitmyrtlefordvic.com.au [email protected] [email protected]

@brightandsurrounds facebook.com.au @brightsurrounds Search Bright /greatalpinevalleys & Surrounds LOCAL MARKETS PURCHASE LOCALLY MADE GOODS, MEET THE MAKERS AND APPRECIATE THE SKILLS OF LOCAL ARTISTS. BRIGHT & SURROUNDS HAS A SELECTION OF MARKETS WORTH CONSIDERING WHEN PLANNING YOUR NEXT VISIT TO THE REGION.

Enjoy the bustle of annual markets, or the vibrancy of monthly markets. Stock up on treats from local artisans, including pies, breads, oils and smoked goods. Shop for unique jewellery, handmade children’s clothes and furniture, grab a coffee and soak up the vibe of the markets. EMERGENCY VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE ABC EMERGENCY RADIO Pick up a copy of the seasonal festivals and events guide from Visitor Information Centres or Police/Fire/Ambulance INFORMATION LINE go to visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au for more information. 89.7FM Bright 000 1800 240 667 106.5FM Mount Beauty/Upper Kiewa MONTHLY MARKETS: SES PARKS VICTORIA 91.7FM Myrtleford • Bright Make It, Bake It, Grow It Market • Mount Beauty Community Market 132 500 131 963 - third Saturday 9.00am-12.30pm - first Saturday 9am-2pm 106.5FM/88.1FM Dinner Plain VICROADS • Myrtleford Indoor Market • Myrtleford Flea Market Road closures - every Saturday 9am-2pm - second Saturday 8.30am-12pm 131 170 Bright & Surrounds Visitor Guide I 40 visitbrightandsurrounds.com.au I 41