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

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…

Porepunkah Pub

Porepunkah Pub

Nestled in the foothills of the Victorian Alps, the Porepunkah Pub has long stood as a cherished cornerstone of this small town. More than just a place to grab a drink or a meal, the pub embodies the heart and soul of Porepunkah, serving as a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Its rustic…

Rail Trail Cafe

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

Nine Steps

Nine Steps

Nine Steps is a private estate on 29 acres with stunning views of Mount Buffalo. A luxury rural retreat with plenty of space and great kitchen for self catering. Nine Steps is an architect designed home and unique luxury interpretation of the traditional Australian shed. This is your opportunity to enjoy a rural retreat in…

Riverstone

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…

Tewksbury Lodge

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…

Mount Buffalo View Apartment - Feathertop Winery

Mount Buffalo View Apartment – Feathertop Winery

Escape to the Mt Buffalo View Apartment, a luxury retreat set within the stunning Feathertop Winery estate. Be captivated by floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Mt Buffalo’s majestic peaks, snow-capped in winter for a magical touch. Indulge in the elegance of a fully equipped gourmet kitchen with Miele and Smeg appliances, complemented by a…

Little Olive Cabin

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 Marsden

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,…

OTHER EXPERIENCES YOU'LL LOVE

Splash Park in Bright, Victoria

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.

Photography in Bright Victoria