SCENIC DRIVES AND MOTORCYCLE ROADTRIPS
DRIVING THE HIGHEST SEALED ROAD IN AUSTRALIA
VALLEY LOOP DRIVE
This 120km loop explores sections of the Ovens Valley, Kiewa Valley and Happy Valley as well as the towns of Porepunkah, Bright and Mount Beauty. Adding to the views along the way are three stunning lookouts over the Kiewa Valley and Mount Bogong. The drive skirts close to Myrtleford, which is well worth the short detour if you want to make a day of it. The loop can be driven in either direction starting at any point. From Bright, follow the Great Alpine Road northwest to Ovens and turn right onto Happy Valley Road. At the road's end, turn right onto the Kiewa Valley Highway to Mount Beauty. To return, take Tawonga Gap Road over the pass and turn right onto the Great Alpine Road back to Bright.
MOUNT BUFFALO DRIVE
The road into Mount Buffalo National Park makes for a lovely scenic drive. It's an 85km-return trip from Bright to the top at The Horn Picnic Area. Take the Great Alpine Road to Porepunkah and turn onto Mount Buffalo Road at the roundabout and follow it to the end, returning the same way. The road climbs up to panoramic views over the Ovens Valley before heading inward over the Mount Buffalo Plateau and its granite boulders. There are plenty of spots to stop along the way, most notably Ladies Bath Falls, the old Mount Buffalo Chalet and Lookout, Lake Catani and The Horn. A walking trail leads from The Horn Picnic Area to the summit with 360° views over the Australian Alps.
PREPARE FOR ANYTHING
From snow to bushfires, floods and gale-force winds, the weather in the High Country can be fierce and change rapidly. Always check conditions before venturing out. Importantly, download the VicEmergency and the Emergency Plus apps to your phone and notify someone of your plans before you set out. Many parts of the High Country have poor or no mobile phone coverage. In winter, it is mandatory to carry snow chains into alpine areas. Snow is prevalent from June to October but can fall anytime of year in the mountains.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Our region is sensitive to human presence. We are privileged to have endangered animals such as platypus, pygmy possums and alpine dingoes surviving in our environment. Your behaviour has a direct impact on our flora and fauna. When driving or riding, stay on formed roads. Protect our wildlife and the beauty of our environment by taking all rubbish with you. Never light a fire on a Total Fire Ban day. When fires are permitted, always extinguish it completely before leaving. Enjoy our outdoors, and remember, leave no trace.
DRIVE ITINERARY
ALPINE DISCOVERY LOOP
This two-day scenic drive loops around the tops of the Victorian Alps and down through the towns of the Ovens and Kiewa Valleys.
LOOKOUTS
THE VIEWS ARE BETTER UP HIGH
Lush green valleys and an alpine horizon as far as the eye can see. Here's where to find our greatest views.
OTHER EXPERIENCES YOU'LL LOVE
Mount Buffalo Beginners Abseiling
Looking to challenge the family, friends or yourself without jumping in the deep-end? Have a go at the beginners abseiling. It is fun, challenging and rewarding all at once. With a variety of sites ranging from eight metres – 35 metres, it is a great way to experience the mountain.This experience is provided by Adventure…
Bright White Water Kayaking
Come and adventure around Bright, in the beautiful Ovens River valley. Situated less than four hours drive north from Melbourne, Bright is the perfect location for an adventurous weekend getaway or family holiday destination. This experience is perfect for novice kayakers who are ready for a challenge. This family friendly activity is guaranteed to create…
Where there is a Grill, there is a way!
Where there is a Grill, There is a way! is a bespoke walking experience designed to enhance Dinner Plain’s green season offering. It encompasses an easy one hour guided walk with a gourmet lunch featuring local produce in a truly superb location: Precipice Plain. This unique product combines the homemade, locally sourced food from The…
Creative Light Photography Tours
Creative Light Photography runs multi-day photography workshops in the Victorian High Country. Jeff Freestone is the owner of Creative Light Photography and is a local photographer who has spent the last nine years exploring the region with his camera with an aim to reveal the hidden beauty of this stunning region through his work. The…
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…
