Perfect for couples, families or groups of friends who love to travel together, Bright is the ultimate Victorian holiday destination with something for everyone. From wineries to walking trails, cafes to cultural experiences, there are so many wonderful things to do in the region. Alpine Valley Getaways is the trusted choice for stylish Bright holiday rentals at affordable prices. If you have never been to beautiful Bright, or if you are looking for a family-friendly getaway that wonโt blow the budget, hereโs our list of what to do in Bright and the best part is, all of these activities are absolutely free!
Play at the Bright Splash Park
Located in Centenary Park, the Bright Splash Park is ideal for families visiting over the warmer months. With a unique design based on the regionโs mining heritage, there are four splash pads to accommodate all different age groups. Guaranteed to provide hours of free, family-friendly entertainment, pack a picnic, and spend the entire day enjoying this beautiful park in the heart of town. If you feel like splurging, why not book a table at one of the many Bright restaurants nearby for a delicious lunch or early dinner with the kids.
Walk the Canyon Trail
Perfect for a relaxing stroll, the Canyon Walk starts from Howitt Park in Bright, making it great for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Bright without leaving town. You can choose to start at Star Road bridge and walk along the northern bank of the Ovens River. This track has some steep steps which may make it difficult for those with limited mobility. Alternatively, you can walk the track on the southern bank. This runs from Howitt Park to Canyon Lane and is a sealed trail that is pram and wheelchair friendly. Learn about the history of the local area along the way and take a few Instagram-worthy snaps while youโre at it.
Swim in the Ovens River
Perfect for those who visit Bright in the hot summer months, the Ovens River is the best place to cool off. Whether you want to take a dip and use the springboards and slides in the deep swimming hole in the main part of town, hop in a kayak or try a stand-up paddle board, the Ovens River is definitely the fun place to hang out on hot summer days.
Cycle the Rail Trail
Part of the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail runs right through Bright, and it provides an excellent opportunity to hop on your bike and explore the beautiful countryside. The entire sealed trail is 94km and links the townships of Wangaratta, Beechworth, Myrtleford, Porepunkah, Bright and more recently expanded to include Harrietville. For a comfortable ride, take the 6km track to Porepunkah and stop for lunch along the way. If you want to go a little further and would like to check out one of the areaโs wineries, head on to Ringer Reef Winery.
Hike Up a Mountain
There is so many foodie experiences and places to eat in Bright, but for those who want some outdoorsy adventures to balance out the wining and dining, Bright is the ultimate town to base yourself for exploring some of the stateโs best mountains and hiking trails. Mount Hotham is around an hour drive, and a mere 30-minute drive away, you will find Mount Beauty (not a mountain, just another gorgeous little township that often gets overlooked), and Mount Buffalo is around a 50 minute drive. Be rewarded with spectacular views and some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, then head back to Bright and settle in for some local wine or craft beer and a sumptuous meal.
Picnic in Neighbouring Porepunkah
The Porepunkah Riverside Park& Playground is a perfect location for a summer picnic with all the family. Between Christmas and Easter the Ovens river is dammed at Bright and Porepunkah to create long, beautiful, family-friendly river swimming pools to enjoy into the long summer evenings. A lifeguard is on duty during the peak times and the paddling pool on the riverbanks is perfect for the little ones. Pack up your picnic hamper and take advantage of the free BBQ facilities and picnic tables located along the riverbank, sit back, and enjoy the view towards Mount Buffalo.
Take a Scenic Drive
Whether you want to head off for an hour or make an entire day of it, there are so many scenic drives you can do around Bright that showcase the stunning mountain vistas and scattered historic villages. Regardless of whether you visit in the depths of winter or at the height of Summer, the pristine scenery will have you filled with awe in any season.
Browse the Make It, Bake It, Grow It Market
Located in Howitt Park on the banks of the Ovens River, the Bright Make It, Bake It, Grow It market is a stunning, lively place where you can sample cheeses, wines and other locally made delicacies as you meander through the multitude of stalls selling artisanal wares and locally made goods. This market is held on the third Saturday of every month.
For more information on things to do in and around Bright, the team at Alpine Valley Getaways is here to help. Offering a great range of Bright accommodation, Vic travellers will be spoilt for choice when choosing the perfect place to stay. Book your accommodation online now or get in touch with us by calling 03 5759 2555 or 0408 874 437.