SCENIC DRIVES AND MOTORCYCLE ROADTRIPS
DRIVING AUSTRALIA'S HIGHEST SEALED THROUGH-ROAD
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.
MOTORCYLE TOURING ROUTES
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
Cross Country Ski – Half Day Lesson and Tour (three hours)
You will learn the same skills as for the ski lesson (above) and then practice these skills out on the trails. Your ski instructor will provide coaching and tuition throughout the tour, which will help you improve your ski technique.…
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…
Bright Adventure Company
Bright Adventure Company offers the most exciting guided outdoor experiences in and around Bright, Victoria. Abseiling, rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, underground river caving and more, they have the perfect adventure waiting for you. Looking for a truly once in a…
Polar Paws Express
Come jump in a sled with a team of Howling Huskys for a thrilling ride through the snow-covered trails of Mount Hotham! Guided by one of our experienced mushers and powered by a team of roughly eight huskies, this adventure…
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…
Hedonistic Hiking
Hedonistic Hiking is a small company operated by experienced guides Jackie and Mick Parsons. For almost 20 years they have been offering all-inclusive luxury gourmet guided walking holidays in Victoria and Europe. In Australia the scheduled tours explore the Victorian…
Great Alpine Walk 6 Day – Self-Guided
This self-guided independent walk has you trek over spectacular ridgelines, through valleys packed tight with Mountain Ash, high alpine forests and grassland and past snow-capped mountains. The sheer diversity of landscape and the glorious views as the track winds its…
Australian Cycle Tours – Victoria
Australian Cycle Tours specialise in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia, including the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail and the Great Victorian Rail Trail. They are the people…
Mt Bogong Pack Horse Tour
Highest of High Country, featuring spectacular climbs and descents across the top of Victoria. Wild rivers, stunning views, secluded camps and diverse landscapes. The horses are a feature of this expedition, each of them our own bred and trained mountain…