ABOUT BRIGHT

The riverside town of Bright, located in the foothills of the Australian Alps, is renowned for its picture-perfect tree-lined streets, mountain views, local food and wine, boutique stores, markets, and outdoor adventures such as hiking, cycling and paragliding. All this, within close proximity to Victoria's alpine ski resorts, has firmly established Bright as one of Australia's most popular tourists destinations.

THE TOWN

Bright has changed dramatically since the gold mining days of the mid-1800s, when thousands seeking their fortune survived in shanties along our creeks and rivers. Now, reclaimed by nature, you can see remnants of this distant past as you walk the scenic trails surrounding the town. These days, Bright is a much loved escape full of vibrant eateries, boutique stores and markets, craft brews and local wine, set to a backdrop of mountain views where endless adventures await. With a wide-range of accommodation, and just over three hours from Melbourne along one of Australia's most scenic drives – the Great Alpine Road – you'll soon discover that one trip to Bright & Surrounds isn't enough.

THE SURROUNDS

Bright may be the popular place you know by name, but it's only a small part of the stunning region of Bright & Surrounds – an area of fertile valleys carved between alpine mountains by three rivers: the Ovens, Kiewa and Buckland. Cross the hills to Mount Beauty for dramatic views of Victoria's highest mountain; escape to the tranquility of Harrietville at the foot of Mount Feathertop; discover hidden mosaics in Myrtleford or drive Australia's highest sealed road to the alpine village of Dinner Plain. Get ready to pull up a chair at one of our region's country pubs, breweries and wineries, enjoy a bushwalk or go for a swim in our lakes and rivers, and get to know the places that make up our beautiful Surrounds.

EXPERIENCES YOU'LL LOVE

Bright Rotary Easter Market

Bright Rotary Easter Market

Come along to this family friendly event held at Howitt Park. These monster markets offer something for everyone; local food vendors, homemade items, craft, skincare, clothing, and plenty more. This event is free for all to attend.

Picnic Tunes, Autumn Vibes at Ringer Reef

Picnic Tunes, Autumn Vibes at Ringer Reef

Enjoy a perfect afternoon of live music, hand crafted wines and unbeatable views at Ringer Reef. This Autumn, Ringer Reef is showcasing the talents of Victorian musicians, the perfect accompaniment to the best that the High Country has to offer!

Easter at Ringer Reef

Easter at Ringer Reef

Easter is one of the most popular weekends of the year to visit Ringer Reef. The weather is perfect, views spectacular, wines delicious, music soulful and vibes on point. Such a fun but relaxed afternoon! Musicians performing this year are: Easter Saturday – Adam Lindsay Easter Sunday – Halo Easter Monday – Life Dreamers

Harrietville Bush Market and Duck Race

Harrietville Bush Market and Duck Race

Start your Easter Sunday family fun with the friendly Harrietville Bush Market in Tavare Park. Beneath the trees, browse the array of artisan stalls, including gourmet local food offerings, local produce, cheeses, preserves, clothing, handmade jewellery, plants, home-cooked treats and much more. Top that off with a live music set from DJ Boey throughout the…

Wandiligong Nut Festival

Wandiligong Nut Festival

The big weekend in the littlest valley! Wandiligong Nut Festival celebrates the local growers, the end of harvest and the fabulous varieties of nuts and other fresh produce available in this cool climate region during Autumn. The only nut festival of its kind in Australia. Nestled among heritage trees and gums with Morses Creek flowing…

Hometown

Hometown

A locals favourite, Hometown is a New York inspired neighbourhood wood-fired pizza spot. Here you will find proper pizza, share plates and an extensive drinks list. Hometown is the sister restaurant of Tomahawks.

OUR STORY

THE THINGS THAT HAVE SHAPED US

Delve into our past to discover how the towns of Bright & Surrounds came to be here among the rugged mountain ranges of the Australian Alps.

history myrtleford summer 4_3
Wallaces Hut Falls Creek Summer 4_3

HISTORIC HUTS

DISCOVER OUR HIGH COUNTRY HUTS

Dotted throughout the wild Australian Alps are historic huts with a story to tell. Here’s how you can find them.