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
Oktoberfest Dachshund Derby
Get ready to enjoy live music from 11:00am to 10:00pm, featuring a lineup of talented local artists that will keep you entertained throughout the day. Bring the kids along for a day of free entertainment, including face painting and balloon artists, ensuring smiles all around. Explore vibrant market stalls, where you can find unique crafts…
Bright Rotary Spring Markets
The Rotary Market hosts up to 100 stalls. With something for everyone; local food and drink vendors, homemade items, crafts, skincare, clothing, and plenty more together with entertainment and such a festive atmosphere. The Rotary Market is a must-do on this long weekend.
Bright Brewery BierFest
Bright Brewery is throwing a massive Bierfest on the lawns of the Paddock to celebrate the launch of their new Oktoberfest-inspired brew, Festbier. Think Lederhosen, Dirndls, and plenty of steins! The brewery will be transformed into a little slice of Germany, complete with hearty food, live music, and fun-filled games. You’ll be able to sink…
Spring Long Lunch – Gapsted Estate
Gapsted Estate’s Spring Long Lunch is the perfect opportunity to gather with friends as you emerge from winter hibernation! Enjoy a long, leisurely lunch with old friends or make some new ones as you enjoy the community of long tables, generous wine and delicious food, all overlooking the beautiful Alpine Valleys vineyards. Their winemakers will…
Journey Bright
Relax, decompress and enjoy the haven that has been created for you at Journey Bright. Time stops when you enter, engaging all your senses by providing a welcoming respite from your own busy journey. Stylish ladies clothing and accessories, beautiful home wares, interesting gifts, advice, tips and a smile are guaranteed in this sanctuary.
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.