Welcome to Bright

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, Mount 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.

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.

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.
• Ride a bike or walk along a section of the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail, stretching between Wangaratta and Bright.
• Discover the region's colourful past at the Bright and District Historical Museum.
• Explore the delightful historic village of Wandiligong, famous for its scenic walks, historic buildings and a traditional, friendly pub.
• Stroll along the many walking paths that circle the town, including Mount Porepunkah, Canyon Walk and Mystic Mountain.
• Experience the thrill of adventure sports such as paragliding and abseiling.
• Visit 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 and offers a range of exciting activities from skiing in winter to rock climbing and hang gliding in summer.
• Visit Myrtleford, a comfortable 20 minute drive north-west along the Great Alpine Road, where you can taste the local Michelini wines and try the excellent cakes and pastries at one of the local bakeries.
• Pack a picnic and head to beautiful Lake Buffalo, 22 kilometres from Myrtleford and at the southern base of Mount Buffalo.

(text courtesy of www.visitvictoria.com).