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
Ringer Reef Winery
A gold specimen found in the late 1800s by men ringbarking the property, led to the opening and naming of the mine, Ringer Reef. A century on, the Ringer Reef vineyard was established by Annie and Bruce Holm in 1998. Ringer Reef is now under the custodianship of Mark (Annie and Bruce’s) son. Today, Ringer…
Punkah Pantry
Punkah Pantry doubles as a licenced café and provedore in the heart of Porepunkah – across the road from the Ovens River and Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. Experience the newly renovated store, with a vibrant storefront that opens up to a light-filled space with plenty of seating for the whole family. After a swim…
PLACES TO STAY IN POREPUNKAH
Riverstone
This exquisitely crafted house can be found in the heart of picturesque Porepunkah. With a fresh Scandinavian style flowing throughout the house in its furnishing and fittings and premium bedding complimenting the three bedrooms. Year-round this house keeps giving, with a log fireplace located in the back lounge space, find yourself curling up on the…
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…
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…
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…
River Verse and River Song
With five bedrooms and sleeping ten people, this split-level home is sure to please and accommodate the whole extended family. Upstairs is dedicated to the master bedroom, with an ensuite, reverse cycle air conditioner and a balcony overlooking the Ovens River. The main living area is located on the middle floor with an open plan…
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.
