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
Punkah Pantry
Punkah Pantry is a licensed café and providore in the heart of Porepunkah, perfectly placed across the road from the Ovens River and right by the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. It’s an easy-going place to pause and refuel, whether you’ve just finished a swim in the river, rolled in on two wheels or are…
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…
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…
PLACES TO STAY IN POREPUNKAH
Silver House
Welcome to Silver House, a serene and spacious holiday home perfectly nestled at the foothills of the spectacular Mount Buffalo. Set against a backdrop of towering peaks and surrounded by natural beauty, this unique retreat offers the ultimate escape for those craving fresh mountain air, unforgettable views, and quality time with loved ones. Whether you…
Magnolia on Monash
This unique modern home offers the perfect space for your holiday experience. Fit for families or groups of friends wanting to bask in all that the property and the region has to offer. You will need to appreciate this homes flair for the contemporary. Design devotees will be drawn to the master bedroom, a dark…
Athletes Retreat
Service your need to travel, to explore and most importantly to indulge. This beautifully spacious multi-level house is one of the most extensive in the neighborhood, with its contemporary style and its exclusive availability, the property boasts all the modern comforts and more for a relaxing holiday. This extremely well-thought-out home is spread across two…
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,…
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…
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.
