There are many things magical about Bright, with road-trippers from right around the country finding their way to this much-loved Victorian High Country town, spectacularly located in the Ovens Valley at the base of the Australian Alps.
About 320km (three and a half hours) on the Hume Highway M31 from Melbourne or 650km (seven hours) from Sydney, winding your way from the M5 then the M31 and onto the Great Alpine Road, this is one of those road trips that just keeps on giving, no matter how many times you do it! Ever popular in the winter months as a launching pad for the nearby snowfields, Bright’s as renowned for being a place of all seasons with adventures ready to happen throughout the year.
Best vehicle and tyres for the ride…
For this one, we’re taking our Ford Ranger fitted with Maxxis RAZR AT811 all-terrains. The Ranger’s extra height is perfect for taking in the exceptional views with plenty of space for bikes and snow kit, while the RAZRs provide all the versatility, ride comfort and peace of mind you need to safely go just about anywhere!
While a 4×4 vehicle in this famous High Country territory is something many Maxxis drivers really appreciate (along with the pretty amazing off-road tracks you don’t have to go too far to find), you really don’t need a 4×4 to enjoy many of the incredible sights and experiences that make Bright so brilliant!
When the snow’s up…
In striking distance of some of the country’s best ski slopes (think Mt Hotham and Falls Creek) or a bit of tobogganing on Mt Buffalo or Dinner Plain, Bright’s the perfect base for brilliant winter sports fun. Plus, when you’ve had enough of the snowy adventures, there’s nothing better than finding a cosy corner complete with fireplace, wicked marshmallow-topped hot chocolate or a glühwein.
If you’re intending to travel from Bright to any of these snow-top destinations during the snow season, it’s important to know that carrying diamond pattern snow chains (and fitting them when directed) is a legal requirement. Hiring them ahead of your trip is the best way to go — there are a few snow chain hire and fitting shops conveniently located before you hit the slopes.
Plus, if you’re taking your vehicle into the snow, don’t forget to pack essentials such as a torch, shovel, ice scraper, antifreeze and recovery track (for 4WD vehicles). Your battery is always put to the test in very low temperatures, so it’s also a good idea to ensure this is in good condition prior to your departure.
Walks, trails, lookouts and tracks…
If you’re looking for a good way to enjoy Bright and the picturesque Ovens River any time of year, the Canyon Walk is an easy 3km loop (starting from Howitt Park) that you won’t want to miss! The Huggins Lookout Walk is another accessible walk that (off Baker’s Gully Rd) offers amazing views, while getting to Clear Spot Lookout, high above Bright is definitely one for the 4WD’ers! Visit Bright’s Alpine Visitors Centre to find out more about the walks, trails and cycling tracks on offer and to pick up a map of the area.
Make it, Bake it, Grow it market…
The third Saturday of the month is market day in Bright, with the freshest fruit and vegetables, wine, art and other locally grown and baked produce for sale from its picture-perfect location on the banks of the Ovens River at Howitt Park. Go for a coffee, yummy pancake, brekkie or lunch snack, or just a browse – and definitely don’t forget your esky to stock up on ‘Bright and Beautiful’ goodies for the trip home.
Go 4WD’ing…
Victoria’s High Country (including the area around Bright) is a popular haunt for 4×4 drivers keen to take their rigs off-road! There are numerous tracks to choose from, with the 26km Goldie Spur in Mt Buffalo a great easy to moderate option to put those RAZR all-terrains to the test! While October to April is generally considered the best time for driving this track, if you’re looking for something more adventurous, the Blue Rag Range Track is an iconic 4×4 drive. As one of the highest, steepest and most remote and challenging tracks of the High Country, Blue Rag Range is only suitable for experienced 4×4’ers and it’s recommended that at least two vehicles travel together. The road to the track (Dargo High Plains Road) is closed during the snow season, so this is also one for the warmer seasons!
Where to shop, stay and eat…
Bright is well equipped with accommodation to enjoy everything outdoors as well as having an abundance of places to warm up indoors after days on the neighbouring snowfields, hiking or cycling. Bright offers a wide variety of camping options including Bright Riverside Holiday Park, which give you the opportunity to roll up to the river front in your van, set up a tent, or hire a pod, cabin or villa. There are also heritage hotels, inns and a multitude of cosy cottages, some with mountain and river views. Eating in Bright is easy and extra delicious, with local produce a highlight of the bars, restaurants and cafes both in Bright’s vibrant main centre and its surrounding areas.
The Bright area is also renowned for its cool climate wines, and whether you opt for tastings at Billy Button or Ringer Reef or stay at Feathertop Estate and enjoy a luxurious vineyard getaway, we’re pretty sure you won’t be disappointed! If you are planning on doing wine tastings, check for vineyard opening times (some are closed in the winter months) and of course, make sure you have a designated non-drinking driver!
Before you go…
Making sure your vehicle and tyres are in tip top condition for this journey should be all part of your plan! To have your tyres checked or balanced, or to get some expert assistance with choosing the right tyres for your vehicle, our friendly Maxxis dealers are conveniently located country-wide (including in Bright and its surrounds), so wherever you are, there’s sure to always be one near you!
