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
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…
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…
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…
The Colour Bridge by Skunk Control
The picture-perfect six kilometre rail trail ride from Bright to Porepunkah’s Riverside Park just got even better with the addition of The Colour Bridge. The installation involves stunningly stylised, colourful wildflower-like pieces that hug the path in a repeating pattern,…
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.…
Feathertop Winery
Come and discover your new favourite drop at Feathertop Winery, a hidden gem nestled in Victoria’s stunning Alpine Valleys wine region. For over 30 years, this family-owned vineyard has lovingly hand-planted and nurtured 22 diverse varietals-producing wines that truly capture…
PLACES TO STAY IN POREPUNKAH
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
