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
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. Offering something special everyday, you’ll find their everyday classics on Monday and Tuesday, full lunch menu from Wednesday to Sunday and cooked breakfasts Friday to Sunday. Open…
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…
The Yard Bright
The Yard Bright is your go-to spot for fun and flavour in the heart of Bright, Victoria. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the vibrant energy. The menu features a playful mix of Southern American inspired share plates and quick bites, perfect for any occasion. Pair your meal with one of the many…
Ringer Reef Winery
A gold specimen found in the late 1800s by men ringbarking the property, led to the opening and naming of the mine, Ringer Reef. A century on, the Ringer Reef vineyard was established by Annie and Bruce Holm in 1998. Ringer Reef is now under the custodianship of Mark (Annie and Bruce’s) son. Today, Ringer…
Alpine Helicopters
Based at Jindabyne Airport in the Snowy Mountains. Scenic Helicopter flights. Flights are available all year round. Soar high above it all and see the untouched places of Kosciuszko National Park from the sky. Take a flight and land for lunch at an award-winning winery or brewery. See the mighty Hydro Electric Scheme. From spectacular…
Billy Button Cellar Door Bright
Flower-lovers will know that the Billy Button name belongs to the bouncy native yellow flowers that colour the mountain tops of the Alpine Valleys. In 2014, after honing her winemaking skills throughout Victoria, Winemaker Jo Marsh launched her own regional label, Billy Button Wines. Together, with her winemaker husband Glenn James, they source parcels of…
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.