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…
Nature Saunas by Haut Hutt
Known for stoking an ancient ritual in the High Country of Victoria is Håut Hutt and their nature sauna offerings. Pronounced the same as hot hut, just better looking. Created by a local couple, Harry and Audrey, who envisioned bringing…
Porepunkah Riverside Park and Playground
A children’s paddling pool on the river banks nearby give the whole family a chance to enjoy the water. Take along a barbeque and take advantage of the nearby free barbeque facilities and picnic tables. This park on Nicholson Street,…
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…
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…
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.…
PLACES TO STAY IN POREPUNKAH
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…
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…
Buffalo Bliss
Welcome to your magical farm-side retreat with stunning views of Buffalo from every room – you’ll never want to leave the beautiful Buffalo Bliss. Retreat to your haven where alpine luxury meets effortless relaxation. Unwind across three beautifully appointed bedrooms…
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…
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.
