Local Info

Whether it’s fine food and wine, stunning views, adventure and fun, or a chance to relax, Victoria’s Alpine High Country has it all.
Victoria’s Alpine High Country, an easy drive from Melbourne, Canberra or Sydney, is the ideal getaway for couples, families and adventurers alike. The area, famous for its stunning scenery, also offers a vast range of local produce and fine dining options to tempt your tastebuds. Check out the popular gourmet stores and farms that feature our renowned olives, ice cream, nuts and berries, along with quality seasonal fruit and vegetables. You’ll also find trout, venison and a variety of smoked meats. Victoria’s Alpine High Country is home to Good Food Guide ‘Chef-Hat’ winning restaurants, many of which take advantage of the fresh food available at local farmers’ markets. Irrespective of your food preference or price range, there is sure to be a restaurant in our region that will satisfy your culinary needs
A romantic meal is complete when it involves a romantic getaway, and again the region is noted for its fabulous retreats. Stunning views are the order of the day for all types of accommodation, including villas, studio apartments, homesteads or cabins. Caravan parks have certainly become a favourite with those travelling and are popular with families. Along with the many activities available for children, including alpacas and the wonderful Wandi Maze, adults can also take time out relaxing with a spa or massage or exploring the area’s award-winning wineries. Its cool climate is perfect for varieties such as riesling, merlot and shiraz, with tours of the numerous vineyards becoming increasingly popular. Beer lovers are also looked after via local boutique breweries.
As well as the thrill of learning to ski or snowboard in winter, there are countless activities to enjoy, from browsing in antique shops and markets to museums, gardens and art galleries. Alternatively, cycling is a popular pastime, with the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail weaving its way past several wineries, playgrounds and picnic spots. There are many short and long walks around the mountains and the valleys; just some of many ways to take in the region’s charming countryside and towns. There is also plenty to do for those who are a little more adventurous including paragliding over the picturesque landscape, horseback riding, 4WD day trips, kayaking, rock climbing or fishing tours.
The region hosts annual festivals, including the Bright Autumn Festival, the Kangaroo Hoppet international ski event, the Bright Rod Run hot-rod spectacle and the Sled Dog Challenge.
Travelling along the Great Alpine Road is a great way to soak up the scenery. The 308-kilometre route winds from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, taking in Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain and including breathtaking detours such as the Kiewa Valley and Mount Buffalo Drives.
The vast Alpine and Mount Buffalo National Parks provide a showcase of activities and plant life plus sights that will leave any nature buff awestruck. Victoria’s Alpine High Country boasts lovely valleys and villages, including bustling Bright, stunning Mount Beauty, historic Myrtleford, Happy Valley and the beautiful Buckland Valley at the base of Mount Buffalo. The region has a rich history to share with its visitors. From its early pioneers and 1860s gold rush, to its high country huts, historic tours and Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme, there is plenty to discover along the way. Victoria’s Alpine High Country – come and live the ‘high life’.