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
La Cigale
La Cigale is a French inspired place in Bright where you can enjoy life through food, cheese, wine, beautiful local products and more. It’s a gourmet food corner to meet with friends for a light lunch or afternoon wine and cheese platter.
Lucy Jane Ceramics Studio
Lucy Jane Ceramics is a contemporary ceramic studio located in Porepunkah, next door to Bright in Victoria’s High Country. Lucy works primarily on the potter’s wheel, producing a diverse range of ceramics including elegant tableware, as well as lighting and bespoke interior pieces. She’s passionate about creating handcrafted pieces that balance function, form and timeless…
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
Right in the centre of Bright, North East Wine celebrates the best of the region and has proudly taken home the Silver award for New Tourism Business at the 2025 Victorian Tourism Awards. This boutique bar and bottle shop champions the finest wines, beers, and spirits from across North East Victoria, offering visitors a true…
Rich Glen Bright – Provedore, Skin and Beauty
Located in the heart of Bright, step into Rich Glen Provedore, experience a tasting of regional produce and explore artisan olive oils, dressings, condiments, wines, cheese and gin. Rich Glen Skin and Beauty is also located next door from the Provedore, a boutique store offering a curated selection of natural skincare, beauty, wellness, and artisan…
Quaff Wine Bar
Situated right in the heart of Mount Beauty, Quaff Wine Bar is all about the fantastic local wines that make this area special. They’re here to keep it simple – showcasing awesome wines and creating a laid-back hangout for both locals and visitors. No frills, just good drinks, good vibes, and a great time. They’re…
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.