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
Spring Long Lunch at Gapsted Estate
Gapsted Estate’s Spring Long Lunch is the perfect opportunity to gather with friends as we all emerge from winter hibernation! Enjoy a long, leisurely lunch with old friends or make some new ones as we enjoy the community of long tables, generous wine and delicious food, all overlooking the beautiful Alpine Valleys vineyards. Gapsted Estate’s…
Porepunkah Pub
Nestled in the foothills of the Victorian Alps, the Porepunkah Pub has long stood as a cherished cornerstone of this small town. More than just a place to grab a drink or a meal, the pub embodies the heart and soul of Porepunkah, serving as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Its rustic…
Myrtleford Show
The Myrtleford and District Agricultural and Pastoral Society Show is a family fun event with all the usual rides and attractions they love. There are lots to see in their refurbished pavilions – arts, crafts and cooking displays plus animals big and small. Their night program showcases local musicians and great food and drink while…
La Fiera Italian Festival Myrtleford
La Fiera festival returns to Myrtleford in 2025. 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…
Bowerbird Bright
Bowerbird Bright is a carefully curated gifts and homewares store with a distinctly alpine feel. Nestled in the picturesque town of Bright between some of Victoria’s most spectacular mountains, the store offers visitors and locals alike a range of products sourced locally and from around the globe to create a cosy alpine home or foster…
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.