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
Hotel High Plains
Conveniently located just 10 minutes from Hotham Alpine Resort and Hotham Airport, Hotel High Plains is your premier, year round host, in the spectacular and unique Alpine Village of Dinner Plain. Their in-house Cobungra Bar and Stone’s Throw Restaurant provide…
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…
Making Spirits Bright
Making Spirits Bright is a magical year-round Christmas shopping experience in regional Victoria, offering visitors an immersive festive experience unlike anywhere else in Australia. Step inside and discover beautifully curated themed Christmas trees, enchanting village displays, collectible ornaments, and ever-changing…
Be Someone’s Rock
At Be Someone’s Rock you will discover a sanctuary of magic and calm. A beautiful selection of fabulous crystals, silver jewellery, tarot and oracle decks, and spiritual treasures are on offer. You can also book a psychic reading, or enjoy…
Tomahawks
Think L.A food truck inspired share plates and quality cocktails in the beautiful township of Bright. Tomahawks is an American style bar/diner earns it’s place as the buzz of Bright.
Mount Beauty Oktoberfest and Dachshund Derby 2026
Get ready for one of the High Country’s biggest and most entertaining days of the year. Mount Beauty Oktoberfest and Dachshund Derby is back for 2026 – bigger, longer and with even more happening throughout the day. Held in conjunction…
Hometown
A locals favourite, Hometown is a New York inspired neighbourhood wood-fired pizza spot. Here you will find proper pizza, share plates and an extensive drinks list. Hometown is the sister restaurant of Tomahawks.
Feathertop Winery
Feathertop Private Estate is a family-owned winery, private estate and luxury accommodation destination nestled beneath Mount Buffalo in Victoria’s beautiful Alpine Valleys. Surrounded by vineyards, gardens and sweeping mountain views, it brings together wine, considered hospitality, beautiful places to stay…
Nightingale Bros Alpine Produce
Nightingale Bros have been growing and selling apples since 1954. The orchards are renowned for growing fresh crisp apples which are full of flavor. They grow all the favorites like Pink Lady, Royal Gala and Granny Smith, as well as…
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.