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 Brewery BierFest
Bright Brewery is bringing the best of Bavaria to the High Country! Come along to Bierfest, a day of steins, sunshine, and seriously good vibes. Kick back in the October sunshine as their Paddock is transformed into a mini Munich. Expect steins of beer flowing (including thier Festbier), German-inspired food stalls, and a roaming band…
Bright Rotary Spring Markets
The Bright Rotary Market hosts up to 100 stalls, with something for everyone. Expect food and drink vendors, homemade items, craft, skincare, clothing, and plenty more together with entertainment and such a festive atmosphere. It is a must-do on this Melbourne Cup long weekend.
Gapsted Estate Luxury Release Tasting Event – Gapsted Cellar Door
Join in at the Gapsted Estate Cellar Door for an exclusive tasting event celebrating the release of the inaugural Gapsted Estate Collection. Hosted by Chief Winemaker Andrew Santarossa, this intimate guided tasting offers a unique opportunity to explore each wine up close, with every pour paired to a curated tasting plate designed to complement its…
La Fiera Italian Festival Myrtleford
La Fiera festival returns to Myrtleford in 2026. This is a celebration of Myrtleford’s Italian heritage and culture featuring a range of events at various locations and businesses. Keep in touch by checking in on the website and subscribing to receive updates on program events and tickets for La Festa and other events within the…
North East Wine – Bar and Bottle Shop
Located in the heart of Bright, North East Wine is your gateway to the finest local wines, beers, and spirits crafted across North East Victoria. It is more than just a boutique bottle shop, offering a curated experience for wine and beer enthusiasts seeking quality, authenticity and regional flavour. Their shelves are filled with an…
Bright Twilight Tastings
Local Food Delights: Savor the culinary wonders crafted by Bright and Surrounds talented chefs, featuring an array of locally sourced ingredients bursting with freshness and flavour. From artisanal cheeses to gourmet delights, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Wine Tastings: Embark on a journey through the region’s finest vineyards with exclusive wine tastings. Indulge in…
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.
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.