VISIT POREPUNKAH
Porepunkah is a laidback village just 6km north of Bright along the Great Alpine Road. Situated at the junction of the Buckland and Ovens Rivers, this family-friendly destination is the nearest town to Mount Buffalo National Park, which gracefully dominates the skyline to the south. Porepunkah is also the entry point to the bucolic Buckland Valley.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
In summer, when the flow of the Ovens River slows to a gentle meander, Porepunkah is a favourite place for families to escape to. The wide clear water of the Porepunkah River Pool at Riverside Park is an idyllic spot for a swim, float or paddleboard. There is a toddler pool for the smallest members of the family, and a lifeguard is on duty in the warmer months.
The park is an easy place to spend the day, with gas BBQ facilities, a picnic shelter, tables and public toilets. It is also conveniently located across the road from Porepunkah's small town centre, which has a pub, cafe, organics store, takeaway food and a service station.
Hang around and breathe in the views of Mount Buffalo, which dominates the skyline and looks particularly stunning at dawn and sunset.
In winter, Porepunkah is a great base to enjoy tobogganing at nearby Mount Buffalo. Ski gear and chains can be hired in Porepunkah.
TOP 5 THINGS TO DO
1. Picnic with a view
Swim at the Porepunkah Riverside Park or have a picnic while enjoying the views of Mount Buffalo.
2. Pedal to produce
Ride the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to Bright or Myrtleford and stop in at the cellar doors and farm gates.
3. Eat & drink
Sit back and relax at the town's Rail Trail Cafe, Punkah Pub or Punkah Pantry.
4. See a stunning vineyard
Enjoy a wine tasting – and the views – at the Ringer Reef Wines cellar door and vineyard.
5. Organic produce
Stop at Bright Organics for a selection of local produce, teas, and a huge range of herbs and spices.
COOL OFF IN OUR RIVERS
THINGS TO DO IN POREPUNKAH
Porepunkah Riverside Park and Playground
A children’s paddling pool on the river banks nearby give the whole family a chance to enjoy the water. Take along a barbeque and take advantage of the nearby free barbeque facilities and picnic tables. This park on Nicholson Street, Porepunkah has it all: river swimming, a toddler pool, views of Mount Buffalo, barbeques, toilets,…
Mount Buffalo National Park
Mount Buffalo National Park has sheer cliffs, imposing granite tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and stunning wildflowers. The park features over 90 kilometres of walking tracks, panoramic scenery, waterfalls and scope for adventurous pursuits such as rock climbing and hang-gliding. Mount Buffalo is an all-seasons playground. In summer, wildflowers are plentiful and the park is…
Rail Trail Cafe
Located six kilometres from Bright on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, they are a Mexican inspired licensed cafe. Tasty options include local favourites such as the free-range chicken wrap, big beef and bacon barbecue cheeseburger, breakfast burrito and chicken quesadilla. Or take a look at Jesse’s Delicious Specials Board. They use free-range eggs, superb…
PLACES TO STAY IN POREPUNKAH
Little Olive Cabin
Nestled into the foot of Mount Buffalo and central to the most popular tourist attractions in the North East of Victoria. Lovers of quirky eclectic style will bask in the retro and vintage vibes of The Little Olive Cabin. The cabin is smartly appointed with leather furniture, a fully equipped kitchen including stainless steel appliances…
The Kilnhouses
Staying at the kilnhouses is a unique experience where contemporary luxury and design is combined with the stunning beauty and history of the Ovens Valley High Country. Cavedon’s and Eurobin Kilnhouse are at once simple, sophisticated, contemporary and luxurious. Utilising the original tobacco kilns built on the farm, each house boasts soaring ceilings, floor to…
The Grove Estate
Step inside the unique foyer through to the open plan living and dining area and well-equipped chef grade gourmet kitchen with pantry, dishwater, double door refrigerator and large commercial grade stove and oven. There are plenty of thoughtful spaces from ready nooks to the impressive dining options inside and out, with the outdoor dining and…
Tewksbury Lodge
Tewksbury Lodge offers guests the unique experience of an authentic Canadian style log cabin, constructed using traditional hand crafting techniques from 30 tons of real logs. Located just six minutes drive from Bright, the Lodge is set amidst two acres of secluded gardens with Ovens River frontage and views to Mt Buffalo. The Murray to…
The Marsden
Perched above the winery, The Marsden is a luxurious retreat that captures the true spirit of Feathertop; where timeless elegance meets the quiet beauty of the vineyard. Designed to embrace the surrounding landscape, its floor-to-ceiling views of vines and mountains create a deep sense of calm and connection. Every element of The Marsden reflects warmth,…
Peggy Adelaide Penthouse
The Peggy Adelaide Suite at Feathertop Winery offers an indulgent escape for a romantic getaway or private retreat. Perched above the winery’s cellar door, this architecturally designed suite blends luxury with tranquility. Inside, a plush King bed with premium linens, a private sitting area, and a spacious wardrobe create a cozy yet elegant ambiance. The…
OTHER EXPERIENCES YOU'LL LOVE
SPLASH PARK
A MUST-DO ON EVERY KID’S LIST
Bright’s Splash Park and River Pool, with its slides and springboard, is a summertime favourite for little and big kids alike.
WHAT'S ON
FESTIVALS, MARKETS & EVENTS
There's always something happening in Bright and its surrounding towns. Scroll through our event listings to find out what's on during your stay.
