Bright, a picturesque town nestled in Victoria, Australia, is located approximately 320 km northeast of Melbourne and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant outdoor scene. Surrounded by the majestic Alpine National Park, Bright offers a serene escape from the city, with its lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and charming atmosphere.
Join us as we explore the hidden gems and reveal the top things to do in Bright, VIC, a captivating destination that promises unforgettable adventures. Immerse yourself in the area’s natural splendor, delve into its rich culinary and cultural offerings, and embark on a remarkable journey through the enchanting world of Bright, VIC, Australia.
Things To Do In Bright, VIC
1. Canyon Walk
The Canyon Walk is a must-visit scenic riverside walk along the Ovens River, perfect for couples and families. This easy, picturesque trail takes about 40 minutes to complete and offers stunning views of the river, lush vegetation, and surrounding mountains. The walk is well-maintained, with several bridges and viewing platforms along the way, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts. Don’t forget to take a moment to relax by the river and soak in the serene atmosphere.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant.
- Address: Delany Avenue, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located within walking distance from the town center.
2. Bright Brewery
Bright Brewery is a popular destination for beer lovers, offering hand-made beers, delicious food, and live music events. Located in the heart of Bright, this brewery is known for its friendly atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Be sure to try their fruity, tropical, and floral IPA or their crisp and refreshing Bright Sour. The brewery also offers a range of seasonal and limited-release beers, ensuring that there’s always something new to taste.
- Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm, Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm
- Address: 121 Great Alpine Road, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located in the heart of Bright.
3. Cherry Walk Nature Trail
For outdoor enthusiasts and families, the Cherry Walk Nature Trail is a beautiful nature trail that follows the Ovens River. The trail is mostly flat and offers great views of the river, with spots to stop and swim or simply relax and enjoy a picnic. The walk is approximately 3 km long and takes about 1-1.5 hours to complete, making it an ideal activity for a leisurely morning or afternoon.
- Best time of the year: Spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
- Address: Start at Howitt Park, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: The trail starts at Howitt Park, which is within walking distance from the town center.
4. Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail
The Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail is a picturesque cycling and walking trail that stretches over 97 km from Wangaratta to Bright and Beechworth. This trail offers stunning scenery, including vineyards, farmland, and mountain vistas. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for all fitness levels. There are several towns along the way, providing opportunities for rest stops, refreshments, and exploring the local attractions.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its peak.
- Address: Start at Bright Railway Park, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: The trail starts at Bright Railway Park, which is within walking distance from the town center.
5. Apex Lookout Track
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Apex Lookout Track offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The walk is quite steep and narrow but well worth the effort. The trail is approximately 2.4 km long and takes about 1-1.5 hours to complete. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Bright and the surrounding Alpine region. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the views are clear.
- Address: Start at Bakers Gully Reservoir, Bakers Gully Road, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Approximately 3 km from the town center.
6. Bright Splash Park
Bright Splash Park is a fun water park for families with kids, located next to the Ovens River. The park features a variety of water play equipment, including water jets, fountains, and a shallow wading pool. There are also shaded picnic areas, barbecues, and a playground nearby, making it an ideal spot for a family day out. The park is open during the warmer months, providing a refreshing escape from the heat.
- Opening Hours: Open during the warmer months, usually from November to March.
- Address: Howitt Park, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located within walking distance from the town center.
7. Howitt Park
Howitt Park is a lovely park for picnics and relaxation, situated along the Ovens River. The park features large grassy areas, perfect for laying out a picnic blanket and enjoying a meal with family or friends. There are also barbecues, a playground, and public restrooms available. The park is home to several events throughout the year, including the Bright Markets, which showcase local produce, crafts, and food.
- Address: Howitt Park, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located within walking distance from the town center.
8. Bright Electric Bikes
Explore the town and surrounding areas with Bright Electric Bikes. Renting an electric bike allows you to cover more ground and enjoy the beautiful scenery without getting too tired. The friendly staff at Bright Electric Bikes can provide recommendations for routes and attractions to visit during your ride. This is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Bright and its surroundings at your own pace.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am – 5 pm
- Address: 2 Delany Avenue, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located within walking distance from the town center.
9. Ringer Reef Winery
Ringer Reef Winery is a family-owned winery with beautiful views of Mount Buffalo. Located just a short drive from Bright, this winery offers a cozy cellar door experience where you can enjoy their handcrafted wines with a focus on Italian and French varietals.
The knowledgeable staff will guide you through a tasting of their range, including their popular Barbera and Nebbiolo. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning views from their outdoor seating area.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are at their most picturesque.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 12 pm – 5 pm
- Address: 6835 Great Alpine Road, Porepunkah, VIC 3740
- Distance from town: Approximately 9 km from Bright.
10. Billy Button Wines Cellar Door
Billy Button Wines Cellar Door is a boutique winery in the heart of Bright, offering tastings and sales of their unique and aromatic wines. The passionate team behind Billy Button is dedicated to showcasing the diverse range of grape varieties grown in the Alpine Valleys region. Be sure to try their popular Alpine Valleys Rosato, a refreshing and fruity rosé, or their Alpine Valleys Friulano, an aromatic white wine with a rich texture and vibrant acidity.
- Opening Hours: Thursday – Monday: 11 am – 5 pm, Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday
- Address: 11 Camp Street, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located in the heart of Bright.
11. Feathertop Winery
Feathertop Winery is a stunning winery with a restaurant and luxurious accommodation. Located at the base of Mount Buffalo, this winery offers a picturesque setting for wine tasting, dining, and relaxation. Sample their award-winning wines, such as the Feathertop Shiraz or the Feathertop Chardonnay, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The on-site restaurant serves delicious seasonal dishes, perfectly paired with their wines.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are at their most picturesque.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 11 am – 5 pm
- Address: 6619 Great Alpine Road, Porepunkah, VIC 3740
- Distance from town: Approximately 8 km from Bright.
12. Gapsted Wines
Gapsted Wines is an award-winning cellar door and restaurant located in Myrtleford, a short drive from Bright. This winery offers a diverse range of wines, including the Gapsted Ballerina Canopy Cabernet Sauvignon and the Gapsted Limited Release Petit Manseng. The cellar door staff will guide you through a tasting of their wines, while the restaurant serves a delicious menu of modern Australian cuisine, designed to complement their wines.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are at their most picturesque.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am – 5 pm
- Address: 3897 Great Alpine Road, Gapsted, VIC 3737
- Distance from town: Approximately 30 km from Bright.
13. Annapurna Estate
Annapurna Estate is a high-altitude vineyard with a restaurant and cellar door. This unique winery is situated on the slopes of Mount Buffalo, offering stunning views and cool-climate wines. Taste their Annapurna Estate Pinot Noir or the Annapurna Estate Chardonnay, both of which showcase the distinct characteristics of the Alpine Valleys region. The on-site restaurant serves a seasonal menu, with dishes crafted to pair perfectly with their wines.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are at their most picturesque.
- Opening Hours: Friday – Sunday: 11 am – 5 pm, Closed on Monday – Thursday
- Address: 65 Stockmans Drive, Freeburgh, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Approximately 7 km from Bright.
14. Bright Adventure Company
For thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, Bright Adventure Company offers guided outdoor experiences like abseiling, rock climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking. Their experienced guides will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable adventure, tailored to your skill level and interests.
One of their most popular experiences is the Cliff Picnics at Mt. Buffalo, a unique and romantic adventure that includes a gourmet picnic on a portaledge suspended from a cliff face.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.
- Address: 2 Delany Avenue, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located within walking distance from the town center.
15. Mystic Park
Mystic Park is a haven for mountain biking and paragliding enthusiasts. Located just outside of Bright, this park offers a range of mountain biking trails for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. The park is also a popular launch site for paragliding, with stunning views of the surrounding Alpine region. Whether you’re an experienced paraglider or looking to try a tandem flight with a qualified instructor, Mystic Park is the perfect destination.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.
- Address: Coronation Avenue, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Located within walking distance from the town center.
16. Huggins Lookout
Huggins Lookout is a short walk to a stunning viewpoint over Bright and the surrounding Alpine region. The walk is relatively easy, with a gentle incline and well-maintained path. At the lookout, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the town, the Ovens River, and the surrounding mountains.
This is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts or those looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
- Best time of the year: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the views are clear.
- Address: Huggins Lookout Track, Bright, VIC 3741
- Distance from town: Approximately 3 km from the town center.
Towns Nearby Bright, VIC
Here are some nearby towns and suburbs around Bright, VIC, along with their highlights, attractions, distance from Bright, and reasons why they are worth visiting:
- Porepunkah, VIC (9 km from Bright): Located at the base of Mount Buffalo, Porepunkah is a picturesque town known for its wineries, such as Ringer Reef Winery and Feathertop Winery. It’s also the gateway to Mount Buffalo National Park, offering a range of outdoor activities.
- Wandiligong, VIC (6 km from Bright): A historic gold-mining town, Wandiligong is home to the Wandiligong Maze and Café, as well as several heritage-listed buildings. The town is surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
- Harrietville, VIC (24 km from Bright): A charming town at the base of Mount Hotham, Harrietville is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Visit the picturesque Ladies Bath Falls and explore the numerous walking trails in the area.
- Mount Beauty, VIC (30 km from Bright): Nestled in the Kiewa Valley, Mount Beauty is a scenic town offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. It’s also a gateway to the popular ski resort of Falls Creek.
- Myrtleford, VIC (46 km from Bright): A vibrant town in the Ovens Valley, Myrtleford is known for its wineries, such as Gapsted Wines, and its rich agricultural heritage. Visit the Old Tobacco Sheds and explore the town’s history at the Myrtleford Historical Society Museum.
- Beechworth, VIC (57 km from Bright): A historic gold-mining town, Beechworth is famous for its well-preserved streetscapes and numerous heritage buildings. Explore the town’s rich history at the Beechworth Historic Courthouse and enjoy the local food and wine scene.
- Milawa, VIC (76 km from Bright): A gourmet food and wine destination, Milawa is home to the renowned Brown Brothers Winery and the Milawa Cheese Factory. Visit the local cellar doors and indulge in the region’s delicious produce.
- Yackandandah, VIC (80 km from Bright): A charming historic town, Yackandandah is known for its gold-mining history, beautiful streetscapes, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Yackandandah Museum and explore the town’s numerous galleries and studios.
Getting To Bright, VIC
To get to Bright, VIC from common destinations or origins as a local tourist, you have several options for both public transport and driving.
From Melbourne CBD:
- By train and bus: Take the train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Wangaratta Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. From Wangaratta, take the V/Line bus towards Mount Beauty, which stops in Bright. The bus journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- By car: Drive northeast on the M31 Hume Freeway and take the Snow Road exit towards Milawa. Continue east through Milawa and join the Great Alpine Road at Gapsted, heading towards Bright. The drive takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
From other nearby towns:
- From Porepunkah, VIC: Drive southeast on the Great Alpine Road for about 9 km or 10 minutes.
- From Wandiligong, VIC: Drive northwest on Morses Creek Road for about 6 km or 8 minutes.
- From Harrietville, VIC: Drive northwest on the Great Alpine Road for about 24 km or 20 minutes.
- From Mount Beauty, VIC: Drive northwest on the Great Alpine Road for about 30 km or 30 minutes.
- From Myrtleford, VIC: Drive southeast on the Great Alpine Road for about 46 km or 40 minutes.
For public transport options from other nearby towns, use the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) website (https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au) or app to plan your journey, as it provides detailed information on train and bus routes, schedules, and ticketing.
