VISIT POREPUNKAH
Porepunkah is a laidback village just 6km north of Bright along the Great Alpine Road. Situated at the junction of the Buckland and Ovens Rivers, this family-friendly destination is the nearest town to Mount Buffalo National Park, which gracefully dominates the skyline to the south. Porepunkah is also the entry point to the bucolic Buckland Valley.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
In summer, when the flow of the Ovens River slows to a gentle meander, Porepunkah is a favourite place for families to escape to. The wide clear water of the Porepunkah River Pool at Riverside Park is an idyllic spot for a swim, float or paddleboard. There is a toddler pool for the smallest members of the family, and a lifeguard is on duty in the warmer months.
The park is an easy place to spend the day, with gas BBQ facilities, a picnic shelter, tables and public toilets. It is also conveniently located across the road from Porepunkah's small town centre, which has a pub, cafe, organics store, takeaway food and a service station.
Hang around and breathe in the views of Mount Buffalo, which dominates the skyline and looks particularly stunning at dawn and sunset.
In winter, Porepunkah is a great base to enjoy tobogganing at nearby Mount Buffalo. Ski gear and chains can be hired in Porepunkah.
TOP 5 THINGS TO DO
1. Picnic with a view
Swim at the Porepunkah Riverside Park or have a picnic while enjoying the views of Mount Buffalo.
2. Pedal to produce
Ride the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to Bright or Myrtleford and stop in at the cellar doors and farm gates.
3. Eat & drink
Sit back and relax at the town's Rail Trail Cafe, Punkah Pub or Punkah Pantry.
4. See a stunning vineyard
Enjoy a wine tasting – and the views – at the Ringer Reef Wines cellar door and vineyard.
5. Organic produce
Stop at Bright Organics for a selection of local produce, teas, and a huge range of herbs and spices.
COOL OFF IN OUR RIVERS
THINGS TO DO IN POREPUNKAH
Mount Buffalo National Park
Mount Buffalo National Park has sheer cliffs, imposing granite tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and stunning wildflowers. The park features over 90 kilometres of walking tracks, panoramic scenery, waterfalls and scope for adventurous pursuits such as rock climbing and hang-gliding. Mount Buffalo is an all-seasons playground. In summer, wildflowers are plentiful and the park is…
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…
Rail Trail Cafe
Located six kilometres from Bright on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, they are a Mexican inspired licensed cafe. Tasty options include local favourites such as the free-range chicken wrap, big beef and bacon barbecue cheeseburger, breakfast burrito and chicken quesadilla. Or take a look at Jesse’s Delicious Specials Board. They use free-range eggs, superb…
PLACES TO STAY IN POREPUNKAH
BIG4 Porepunkah Holiday Park
At the base of Mount Buffalo and with the Ovens River at the rear of the park, BIG4 Porepunkah Holiday Park is positioned centrally to all things tourism in the Victorian High Country. Situated on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail which is ideal for cycling and walking. Mount Buffalo National Park is the backdrop…
The Cabin
This rustic and charming log cabin has been updated and renovated to offer everything you could need including open plan living leading to a sunny deck, perfect for an afternoon platter with local wine. The large, fully fenced grassed yard is great for the kids to run around your dog is welcome too. Spend the…
Riverstone
This exquisitely crafted house can be found in the heart of picturesque Porepunkah. With a fresh Scandinavian style flowing throughout the house in its furnishing and fittings and premium bedding complimenting the three bedrooms. Year-round this house keeps giving, with a log fireplace located in the back lounge space, find yourself curling up on the…
The Vineyard Residence – Feathertop Winery
A welcome wine of your choice is yours on arrival as you are greeted to this architectural sensation. Featuring four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. Focused around indoor/outdoor living, it seamlessly connects the kitchen, living and dining areas with a multipurpose outdoor dining and pool area to one side and an outdoor alfresco…
Tewksbury Lodge
Tewksbury Lodge offers guests the unique experience of an authentic Canadian style log cabin, constructed using traditional hand crafting techniques from 30 tons of real logs. Located just six minutes drive from Bright, the Lodge is set amidst two acres of secluded gardens with Ovens River frontage and views to Mt Buffalo. The Murray to…
Athletes Retreat
Service your need to travel, to explore and most importantly to indulge. This beautifully spacious multi-level house is one of the most extensive in the neighborhood, with its contemporary style and its exclusive availability, the property boasts all the modern comforts and more for a relaxing holiday. This extremely well-thought-out home is spread across two…
OTHER EXPERIENCES YOU'LL LOVE
SPLASH PARK
A MUST-DO ON EVERY KID’S LIST
Bright’s Splash Park and River Pool, with its slides and springboard, is a summertime favourite for little and big kids alike.
WHAT'S ON
FESTIVALS, MARKETS & EVENTS
There's always something happening in Bright and its surrounding towns. Scroll through our event listings to find out what's on during your stay.
