Discover incredible cycling paths, a lively dining atmosphere, a collection of boutique wineries, and a microbrewery with stunning mountain views, located just three and a half hours’ drive north-east of Melbourne in Bright, a town in the High Country.

Nestled on the Ovens River in Victoria’s High Country, the alpine town of Bright offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and natural beauty. As you travel its tranquil country roads, you’ll stumble upon cellar doors that showcase cool climate wines and farm gates offering fresh local produce. Use this list of activities in Bright to inspire your adventure in experiencing the culinary and natural treasures of the area.

1. Start your day with a satisfying café breakfast

Along the Great Alpine Road, you’ll find Ginger Baker, Wine Bar & Cafe. Known for crafting delicious breakfasts each morning, you can sit on the wooden chairs outside while enjoying the gentle breeze and taking in the view of the Ovens River. Choose a breakfast favorite, such as Eggs Florentine, or indulge in the delightful ricotta hotcakes with berry compote to energize you for the day’s adventures.

Choose from an array of delicious breakfast options at Ginger Baker.

2. Immerse yourself in nature on the Bright Canyon Walk

This easy one-and-a-half-hour return walk is both relaxing and filled with stunning views. The three-kilometre trail meanders past suspension bridges, birdlife, wildflowers, and informative signs detailing the area’s gold mining history.

Breathtaking views await at the top. (Image: Visit Victoria)

3. Explore the Winding Road DESIGN Studio

If you’re in the mood for some creativity, venture a half-hour drive to Tawonga South to check out the Winding Road DESIGN Studio. Operated by former Melburnian Alicia Marshall, this interior design art studio showcases her talent for illustration and design. If you’re fortunate, you might coincide your visit with one of their drawing classes. Otherwise, browse the original artworks and striking home decor available for purchase.

Discover unique treasures in this eclectic design store.

4. Enjoy a bit of retail therapy

Looking to refresh your wardrobe with some unique finds? Head to Tartan Fox for trendy items from brands like One Teaspoon, Zoe Kratzmann, and Nude Lucy. If homewares are more your style, stroll over to The Bright Table, one of those charming homeware and gift stores that small towns are famous for. Pick up a cute mug or two and explore their impressive range of beautiful gifts.

Discover fantastic fashion finds at Tartan Fox.

5. Relish a plant-based feast at Wild Thyme Cafe

Located on Ireland Street, the Wild Thyme Cafe is a wholly vegan and vegetarian establishment sure to impress. Their menu features all-day breakfast, burgers, wraps, nachos, pizzas, and tacos, making it a perfect stop when hunger strikes. Try the Vegan Pad Thai, made with crispy tofu, zoodles, peanut dressing, and a medley of vegetables, and don’t forget to save room for their renowned raw cakes to satisfy your sweet cravings.

6. Cool off with a swim at Mount Buffalo National Park

Just a 30-minute drive from Bright, this gorgeous national park is perfect for a refreshing dip on those hot summer days. Ladies Bath Falls offers a fabulous location, surrounded by pristine waterfalls and natural rock pools.

Ladies Bath Falls is just a short drive away.

7. Sample the region’s finest wines at Ringer Reef Winery

If you fancy a glass of wine in the afternoon, make your way to Ringer Reef Winery, a quaint vineyard with stunning views of Mt Buffalo and the Buckland Valley.

The fertile vineyard sits high in the Alpine Valleys. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Open until 5pm for tastings most days, pay a small fee and indulge in a variety of pinots and cabernets.

Explore high country wines at Ringer Reef Winery Porepunkah. (Image: Visit Victoria)

8. Enjoy a tasting experience at Reed & Co Distillery

Reed & Co. Distillery tasting room and cocktail bar for an exciting tasting session.

Savor cocktail evenings at Reed & Co. Distillery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Start with their classic Remedy Australian Dry Gin, and then explore unique offers like Yuzu New World Dry Gin, Coffee Gin Liqueur, and Alternative Grape Gin. Just remember to arrange for a ride home!

Reed & Co. Distillery creates their distinct gins and spirits using locally sourced ingredients. (Image: Visit Victoria)

9. Savor fresh ales at Bright Brewery

Brewed with the essence of alpine air and pristine water, Bright Brewery’s mountain-crafted beers are a must-try. Stop by this popular hangout to sample their selection of pale ales, amber ales, IPA, and unique seasonal brews.

Sample Bright Brewery’s artisanal beers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Situated in the heart of town along the banks of the Ovens River, it’s a great spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the sunlit deck.

Enjoy the fresh air while sipping cold brew. (Image: Visit Victoria)

10. Experience nature’s beauty during the Autumn Festival

If you visit Bright in April or May, you can take part in the magnificent Autumn Festival when the town’s trees transform into brilliant shades of red, orange, and copper. The festival features art exhibitions, parades, bush markets, and open gardens, making it a lively celebration of autumn.

11. Bike the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail

Bring your own bike or rent an electric bike to explore the stunning Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail at your leisure. With over 100 kilometres of trail to discover, there are numerous cafes, farm gates, and cellar doors to pause at along the way.

Discover the scenic Murray Rail Trail on two wheels.

If you’re unsure of your biking skills, start with an easy gently sloped ride from Bright to Wandiligong. This family-friendly route travels through farmland and natural bushland and is mostly flat, making it suitable for children and those who tire easily.

The trail stretches from Wangaratta to Bright. (Image: James Davidson)

12. Catch a flick at Sun Cinema Bright

This boutique independent cinema offers an experience that reminds you why watching a movie in a classic theater is far better than streaming at home. This cinema features an array of new blockbuster releases, dramas, and arthouse films, with a selection of outdoor and extreme sports documentaries appealing to the adventure lovers visiting Bright throughout the year.

13. Savor the region’s best at the Bright Market

Held on the third Saturday of each month, the Bright Market showcases the talents of local food producers. Spend your morning strolling through the market, gathering locally grown nuts, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, honey, trout, preserves, and freshly baked bread for home enjoyment.

14. Try your luck fishing at a river or lake

Locals recognize that the Ovens, Buckland, and Kiewa Valleys are home to numerous peaceful fishing spots teeming with various fish species, including prized brown and rainbow trout.

Lush greenery surrounds the Ovens River. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you enjoy fishing, acquire a license online and head to any of the local rivers, lakes, and reservoirs where fishing is allowed. For insider tips, consider booking a fly-fishing adventure with a knowledgeable local guide.

Wade through the tranquil waters of the Ovens River. (Image: Visit Victoria)

15. Embark on a farm gate crawl

In and around Bright, you’ll encounter dedicated producers crafting exceptional ingredients. Touring local farm gates to gather fresh produce ensures the best quality selections, often accompanied by local insights. Stop by Alpine Blueberries in Myrtleford for fresh blueberries (and gelato) and Pepo Farms in Ovens to sample their nut and seed oils.

Pepo Farms are the pioneers of pumpkin seed farming in Australia. (Image: Visit Victoria)

In Wandiligong, Nightingale Bros is another charming farm store offering alpine apples, cider, chestnuts, pies, jam, and apple juice. Don’t forget to bring an esky or cooler bag to keep your treasures fresh during your journey home.

Purchase freshly harvested apples from the orchard. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Thinking about a visit to Victoria’s High Country? Check our guide for all the essential information you need.