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

Mount Buffalo National Park

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…

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…

Picnic Tunes, Autumn Vibes at Ringer Reef

Picnic Tunes, Autumn Vibes at Ringer Reef

Enjoy a perfect afternoon of live music, hand crafted wines and unbeatable views at Ringer Reef. This Autumn, Ringer Reef is showcasing the talents of Victorian musicians, the perfect accompaniment to the best that the High Country has to offer!

PLACES TO STAY IN POREPUNKAH

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…

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…

Kookarrunga

Kookarrunga

Think big when you think of Kookarunga. Think breathtaking views. Think entertainers’ paradise. This home has been perfectly designed to bring the outdoors in and the indoors out. Picture windows, glass sliding doors and a kitchen servery window, all lead out to the gardens, alfresco area, barbeque and swimming pool areas, making this home an…

The Kilnhouses

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…

Mount Buffalo View Apartment - Feathertop Winery

Mount Buffalo View Apartment – Feathertop Winery

The Mt Buffalo View Apartment lets you experience the most unique experience of staying within a private winery estate. You are instantly reminded of your incredible location as you walk down the hallway being greeted by the floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing incredible view of Mt Buffalo, beautiful in any season but particularly in the Winter months…

Peggy Adelaide Penthouse

Peggy Adelaide Penthouse

The architecturally designed Peggy Adelaide suite offers an experience of ultimate indulgence and relaxation. This accommodation option is perfect for that romantic weekend getaway or private retreat. Featuring an inviting King bed, luxury linens, private sitting area, ample wardrobe storage and private ensuite bathroom. The bathroom is just as luxe as the bedroom, with a…

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