ABOUT BRIGHT
The riverside town of Bright, located in the foothills of the Australian Alps, is renowned for its picture-perfect tree-lined streets, mountain views, local food and wine, boutique stores, markets, and outdoor adventures such as hiking, cycling and paragliding. All this, within close proximity to Victoria's alpine ski resorts, has firmly established Bright as one of Australia's most popular tourists destinations.
THE TOWN
Bright has changed dramatically since the gold mining days of the mid-1800s, when thousands seeking their fortune survived in shanties along our creeks and rivers. Now, reclaimed by nature, you can see remnants of this distant past as you walk the scenic trails surrounding the town. These days, Bright is a much loved escape full of vibrant eateries, boutique stores and markets, craft brews and local wine, set to a backdrop of mountain views where endless adventures await. With a wide-range of accommodation, and just over three hours from Melbourne along one of Australia's most scenic drives – the Great Alpine Road – you'll soon discover that one trip to Bright & Surrounds isn't enough.
THE SURROUNDS
Bright may be the popular place you know by name, but it's only a small part of the stunning region of Bright & Surrounds – an area of fertile valleys carved between alpine mountains by three rivers: the Ovens, Kiewa and Buckland. Cross the hills to Mount Beauty for dramatic views of Victoria's highest mountain; escape to the tranquility of Harrietville at the foot of Mount Feathertop; discover hidden mosaics in Myrtleford or drive Australia's highest sealed road to the alpine village of Dinner Plain. Get ready to pull up a chair at one of our region's country pubs, breweries and wineries, enjoy a bushwalk or go for a swim in our lakes and rivers, and get to know the places that make up our beautiful Surrounds.
EXPERIENCES YOU'LL LOVE
Cafe Fez Myrtleford
Café Fez presents a unique atmosphere – a treasure trove of twinkling Moroccan lanterns, silver teapots and colourful woven cushions. Featuring a traditional menu of Middle-Eastern favourites, an astonishing drinks menu carrying an array of teas, a great line-up of local wines and beer, and a quixotic array of cocktails, this chilled-out little gem is…
Pepo Farms
Experience the Goodness within Pepo Farms… Enter through the gorgeous garden flower boxes on your way to Pepo Farms Tasting room. Taste paddock to plate treats including their famous chocolate coated pumpkin seeds or chocolate turmeric walnuts; there’s something for the whole family. Fancy something more refined? Their wood smoked or chili pumpkin seeds will…
Grass Valley
Nestled at the bottom of the Kiewa Valley in Mount Beauty, Grass Valley is a reflection of the place they live, and the place they love. With decades of hospitality experience, their team are passionate about offering Mount Beauty and Tawonga the best coffee and food served with delicious wines, cocktails and good times.
Nightingale Bros Alpine Produce
Nightingale Bros have been growing and selling apples since 1954. The orchards are renowned for growing fresh crisp apples which are full of flavour. They grow all the favourites like Pink Lady, Royal Gala and Granny Smith, as well as various other varieties. Though they are best known for their apples, they also grow three…
Rocky Valley Cafe
Enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunch in the unique garden setting. There is no better place to relax after a long ride or while having your bike serviced. They offer a full cooked breakfast and lunch from Wednesday to Sunday, with a shorter menu on Monday and Tuesday. They are open seven days a week.…
Elm Dining
Experience the difference at Elm Dining, a standout dining experience in the heart of Bright, Victoria. At Elm Dining, they focus on showcasing the region’s finest seasonal produce, crafted with love by Head Chef Monica Melendez. Their menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring every dish highlights the freshest local ingredients. Enjoy an evening where their…
OUR STORY
THE THINGS THAT HAVE SHAPED US
Delve into our past to discover how the towns of Bright & Surrounds came to be here among the rugged mountain ranges of the Australian Alps.
HISTORIC HUTS
DISCOVER OUR HIGH COUNTRY HUTS
Dotted throughout the wild Australian Alps are historic huts with a story to tell. Here’s how you can find them.