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 Twilight Market
Bring your family and friends along to the annual, open-air Bright Rotary Twilight Markets, located under the shady trees at Howitt Park, Bright. With a range of stallholders, there is something for everyone at these family-friendly markets. Yummy local food vendors will be there to tempt you, along with fresh produce, ethically made skincare and…
Bright Rod Run
A fantastic three-day car event held in beautiful Bright, Victoria. Attracting thousands of like minded car enthusiasts to enjoy the Show and Shine, trade show, cabaret and street cruising. This event is held annually in November.
Mount Beauty Market
The Mount Beauty Market has been a much-loved monthly event since 1979. Held on the first Saturday of each month, it features a variety of stalls, including locally made items, fresh produce, plants and seedlings, home baked treats, pre-loved items, and more.
Spring Tunes, Picnic Vibes at Ringer Reef
Enjoy a perfect afternoon of live music, hand crafted wines and unbeatable views at Ringer Reef. This Spring, Ringer Reef is showcasing the talents of Victorian musicians, the perfect accompaniment to the best that the High Country has to offer. They have a great range of wine, beer (including zero alcohol), cider and soft drink…
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.
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.