The Australian Bucket List

Victoria

BrightBright is a year-round holiday destination known for its spectacular seasons and a huge selection of experiences. Surrounded by mountains and located on the sparkling Ovens River, you’re simply spoilt for choice.

Each autumn, the deciduous trees in the town of Bright and the surrounding countryside put on a breathtaking display of colour. From its location on the beautiful Ovens River in the valley below Mount Buffalo, Bright's avenues of elms, chestnuts, poplars and scarlet oaks combined with the gardens of local residents for the autumnal display. Let Bright's great outdoors entertain you year-round thanks to its proximity to the Alpine National Park and the snowfields of Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mount Buffalo. Road cycling and mountain biking enthusiasts flock to the area, whether to cruise the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail or tackle the 7 Peaks Alpine Ascent. Hiking, kayaking and even ballooning are guaranteed the keep the heart-rate pumping. Follow the walking and bicycle paths around the town and view its picturesque natural setting from lookouts over the valley and surrounding mountains. Along the river trails, you'll find great fishing spots that are renowned for trout as well as safe swimming holes for a refreshing dip on warm summer days. The concentration of food and wine from the Alpine Valleys is one of Bright's most popular attractions with excellent wineries, stunning produce, award-winning restaurants and a casual café culture to sate an appetite. Time your visit to coincide with the High Country Harvest Festival. Join in the fun, pick up new recipes and meet the makers of some of Victoria's finest food, wine and craft beer. Other popular local events include the Bright Autumn Festival and the Bright Spring Festival. Bright is 308 kilometres from Melbourne on the Great Alpine Road. Access is from the Hume Freeway at Wangaratta. You can also reach Bright via the Princes Highway through Bairnsdale and then onto the Omeo Highway and over the High Plains on the Great Alpine Road.

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Things to do

Ride the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail

The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is the perfect way to discover the diverse and ever-changing landscape of North East Victoria - from natural bushland to verdant farmland, delightfully unexpected hidden valleys and some of Australia's most spectacular mountain ranges. Along the ride (no matter which leg you choose) you'll savour some of Australia's finest gourmet produce, renowned wines, and handcrafted beer. Over 100 kilometres of sealed off-road trails provide you with the perfect link between the already popular tourist centres of Wangaratta, Beechworth, Rutherglen, Bright and Myrtleford. The popular rides along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail caters to all from the intrepid rider, keen to tackle the bigger rides to the more gentle, short rides perfect for little people who are still finding their rolling legs. Map out your ideal morning, day or even long weekend.

Try a craft beer at the Bright Brewery

Bright Brewery is a proudly independent craft brewery, bar, restaurant and bike hub located in the heart of beautiful Bright. With the backdrop of Victoria’s spectacular Alps, their key values of - active, sustainable and authentic - are the cornerstones of everything Bright Brewery does. From brewing beers that reflect the bold and wild local environment, to embracing the outdoor lifestyle that the region offers, Bright Brewery helps form the heart of a vibrant community. The brewhouse is located on the banks of the Ovens river; a place for families to bask in the sunshine, cyclists to rest their weary legs, and paragliders to dream about their next flight above the mountains. Bright Brewery is a family and cycle-friendly venue, usually open daily for lunch and dinner. There is usually live music every Sunday, featuring the finest local and touring artists.

Enjoy a wine at Feathertop Winery

Come and discover your new favourite wine at Feathertop Winery, located in the heart of the Alpine Valleys wine region that is home to 22 different varietals, planted and nurtured lovingly by hand over the last 30 years. Create your own Insta-worthy moment in the beautiful estate overlooking Mt Buffalo, whether it be enjoying a relaxing long lunch on the terrace on a balmy summer’s day or staying in the onsite apartments as a base for exploring the great outdoors. If you are keen to do just more than a wine tasting, make sure you check out the range of winery experiences that really give you the 'meet the maker' experience. General public trading hours are Friday to Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm, with extended hours during public and school holidays. Please check the website for more details. Due to current health advice on social distancing, please contact the business for the most up to date information regarding opening times and services.

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