Bright

Quick facts

• Population approximately 1,900
• 308 kilometres north-east of Melbourne on the Great Alpine Road
• Located at the foothills of the Australian alps
• Close to Mt Hotham, Mount Buffalo and Falls Creek.

Located on the beautiful Ovens River and nestled in the valley below Mount Buffalo, the township of Bright is one of Victoria's most attractive tourist destinations. Each year in autumn, the deciduous trees in the town and surrounding countryside put on a breathtaking display of colour. This legacy of the original pioneers who planted the avenues of elms, chestnuts, poplars and scarlet oaks has been enhanced by the gardens of local residents that contribute to Bright's autumn splendour.

At any time of the year you can explore the town's many historic buildings and sites, which pay homage to the region's bustling gold rush beginnings. Close to the Alpine National Park and within a short drive of the snowfields of Falls Creek, Mt Hotham and Mount Buffalo, Bright also offers a range of outdoor activities to entertain visitors all year round. 

The wealth of food and wine in the Alpine Valleys is also fast becoming one of the town's most popular attractions with world-class wineries, stunning produce, award-winning restaurants and a casual café culture to choose from.

Follow the many walking and bicycle paths around the town and view its picturesque natural setting from lookouts over the valley and surrounding mountains. Along the river trails you'll find great fishing spots that are renowned for trout as well as safe swimming holes for a refreshing dip on warm summer days.

Activities and attractions

• Enjoy a relaxing picnic or barbecue in beautiful Centenary Park, among the centuries-old elms, liquid amber trees and friendly resident ducks
• Visit Bright Art Gallery and Cultural Centre, home of the highly acclaimed annual National Autumn Art Exhibition
• Experience the thrill of adventure sports such as paragliding, abseiling, kayaking and horse riding
• Ride a bike or walk along a section of the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail, stretching between Wangaratta and Bright
• Stroll along the many walking paths that circle the town, including Canyon Walk and the Apex Lookout Walk. Pick up a free brochure from the Visitor Information Centre.
• Visit cellar doors to sample local wine, and taste the fare of gourmet local producers
• Explore Mount Buffalo National Park, a short drive from Bright. An all-seasons park, Mount Buffalo has sheer cliffs, imposing granite tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and stunning views
• In Winter, hit the slopes at Mt Buffalo, Mt Hotham or Falls Creek.

Events

• Bright Autumn Festival – April to May
• Bright Spring Festival – October/November
• Wandiligong Nut Festival – May
• Alpine Valleys Gourmet Weekend – January
• Audax Alpine Classic – January

How to get there
Bright is 308 kilometres from Melbourne on the Great Alpine Road. Access is from the Hume Freeway at Wangaratta. You can also reach Bright via the Princes Highway through Bairnsdale and then onto the Omeo Highway and over the High Plains on the Great Alpine Road.