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
Adventure Enduro
The Adventure Enduro is a one-day adventure fest with a host of exciting activities crammed together into one epic outing. This is the ultimate day of fun and challenge for both body and mind. Under the watchful eye of former Special Forces operators, you will push yourself through a series of adventure activities in a…
Myrtleford White Water Kayaking
Viewing the picturesque scenery of the Ovens River from Myrtleford on top of a sit on top kayak. They supply experienced local guides for paddling down the Ovens river in the grade two rapids along with all the activity specific gear that is needed. This experience is provided by Adventure Guides Australia
Gold Panning – Beechworth and Bright
Strike gold with Adventure Guides Australia. Available in Beechworth and in Bright, this activity is great for the whole family and is a spectacular way to escape the heat. Step back in time to the gold rush era where early settlers flocked to the region in search of their fortune. You will be instructed on…
Autumn In The High Country
Explore the stunning town of Bright in the heart of the Victorian High Country during Autumn as the town is transformed with one of the best displays of Autumn colour in the country. You will learn everything about photographing the magical Autumn colour as well as the breathtaking High Country landscapes along with theory based…
Beginners-Burstons Crevasse Dry Canyon Half-day (3-4hrs)
An adventure that can include an abseil, rock climbing, rock scrambling and more. The views which are seen while moving through the crevasse can be breathtaking, especially coming out from under boulders and rock shelters. This experience is provided by Adventure Guides Australia
Daily Trail Rides
Bogong Horseback Adventures offer day rides in the heart of the High Country. Taking you to the mountain valleys of North East Victoria abound with colourful bird life, majestic views, lush pastures and a delightful climate. Experience horse riding the beautiful tracks of the Alpine National Park through tall mountain forests, fern gullies and river…