Bright’s allure is steeped with the wonders of nature and history, attracting tourists from all over the country, year-round. Whatever the season, there are plenty of things to do in Bright, Victoria; with something to satisfy every visitor seeking unique experiences and outdoor adventure.
Bright’s allure is steeped with the wonders of nature and history, attracting tourists from all over the country, year-round. Whatever the season, there are plenty of things to do in Bright, Victoria; with something to satisfy every visitor seeking unique experiences and outdoor adventure.
Bright’s allure is steeped with the wonders of nature and history, attracting tourists from all over the country, year-round. Whatever the season, there are plenty of things to do in Bright, Victoria; with something to satisfy every visitor seeking unique experiences and outdoor adventure.
What makes Bright a popular destination?
Australia is often associated with rainforests, lush beaches, vast farmlands and massive arid deserts. But not everyone knows about its magnificent Victorian Alps and the glorious mountains and ski fields surrounding Bright, Mount Bogong, Falls Creek, Mount Buffalo and Mount Hotham. Situated at the foot of these mountains, Bright and surrounds has become known as one of Victoria’s best winter skiing destination.
But as the snow caps melt, this town retains its picturesque beauty, thanks to its proximity to the Alpine National Parks and a multitude of other natural attractions.
Besides scenic views, a great climate, and abundant flora and fauna, Bright’s cultural diversity makes it well worth visiting too. Simply put, there are so many fun things to do in Bright for the solo traveller. You can check our website for a sample weekend itinerary in Bright and explore nearby towns for longer getaways.
Before diving into the details about what to do in Bright, let’s discuss how to get to Bright from Melbourne.
How to get there
Bright is about 325 kilometres away from Victoria’s capital, Melbourne, about a 3.5-hour drive. Simply head towards the Hume highway from the city, which takes you past Seymour and Glenrowan. Exit the highway onto Snow Road/C522, which takes you via Milawa. You will reach a T intersection where you need to turn right onto the Great Alpine Road, passing by the towns of Myrtleford and Porepunkah before arriving in Bright.
Public transportation is also available and understandably takes longer, as there’s no direct route from Melbourne to Bright and vice versa.
Where to stay in Bright
This beautiful town is great for every type of visitor, so whether you’re looking for a simple home, a cosy cottage, or a luxurious house with hotel-like amenities, Bright has the right rental property for you. Group, couples, family, pet-friendly, and solo accommodation can all be arranged.
This beautiful town is great for every type of visitor, so whether you’re looking for a simple home, a cosy cottage, or a luxurious house with hotel-like amenities, Bright has the right rental property for you. Group, couples, family, pet-friendly, and solo accommodation can all be arranged.
Where to eat
Get ready to feast on some mouth-watering meals on your trip to the Northeast. You’ll probably be surprised by the abundance of options for eateries, cafes, and restaurants as there’s plenty to choose from and no shortage of tasty options.
Whether you’re seeking a serving of local or international cuisine, you’ll find a great selection of dining places in Bright and other nearby towns. Vegans will surely enjoy Wild Thyme Café, while others may find Suganya’s Thai Restaurant, Katsu Japanese Café great when looking for more of an international flavour. Then there are the fan favourites; Tomahawks, Don Mongos, Velo and the latest addition Pepperberry.
Otherwise, most hotels have bars and restaurants where solo travellers can eat and meet locals or other tourists. Regardless, you’ll experience some memorable culinary delights in this region.
Best things to do in Bright
Planning a weekend getaway or spending a few days in Bright? You won’t run out of activities, especially if you’re ready to venture within its neighbouring towns of Myrtleford, Harrietville, Wandiligong, Porepunkah, and Beechworth.
Bright’s terrain fulfils every adventurer’s desires. At the same time, its art, music, and food scenes embrace foodies, art lovers and the more subdued visitor.
So, whether you love the outdoors or want to explore the region’s unique history, wineries and to meet new friends, here’s how to make the most out of traveling solo in Bright:
Get some TLC
Bright may be more laid-back than most capital cities, but it doesn’t mean wellness and relaxation take the backburner. Visit the areas revered wellness centres or spas to kick off your holiday, helping you feel well-rested and ready for the next adventure.
Try an immersive treatment at Bright Spa if you’re seeking a luxurious pampering experience. Bright Beauty Boutique can take care of all your beauty needs plus there are numerous wellness professionals, who are more than happy to keep you relaxed and ready for the enjoyable days ahead! Further afield there’s also the beautiful Spa Beechworth for some TLC.
Shop local products and interact with locals
As a solo traveller, you don’t want to miss learning more about Bright and its surrounds or meeting some local characters. Local markets offer the best setting, as they’re teeming with local people and plenty of tourists, showcasing products that reflect the community’s culture.
Every third Saturday of the month, local producers, food vendors and artisans from Bright and its surrounds gather to promote and sell their products at Howitt Park. Here’s your chance as a solo traveller to make connections or snag some fresh produce, artwork, and home items you may not find elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Myrtleford has its Farmer’s Market on the fourth Saturday of every month at the town’s Piazza. Here, you’ll find the best produce in the region at friendly prices. The town is likewise home to a few op-shops and antique stores if you’re looking for some rare finds.
Enjoy a stroll along the Canyon Walk
Explore the beauty of the Canyon Walk with this three-hour walk. This leisurely stroll takes you past relics of old gold-mining sites along the Ovens River, a suspension bridge, and some exotic bird and plant species. We recommend you read the information boards for more insight on what you’re seeing. You can start the trail from Howitt Park or the Bright Riverside Caravan Park.
Walk the trail to Huggins Lookout
Take the steep and winding 1.6-kilometre hike to reach this popular lookout, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Bright, the Ovens River, and surrounding mountains. You can access this path via the intersection of Deacon Avenue, Zivan Court, or by taking McFadyens Lane.
Hike the mountains with newfound friends
For safety purposes, it’s not advisable to hike by yourself. However, if you’re a professional hiker, find a hiking buddy to conquer the region’s more challenging trails, like Mount Feathertop. This mountain straddles Bright and Harrietville and is Victoria’s second-highest peak after Mount Bogong.
Multiple trails are available, with the Razorback Track being a favourite. This 22-kilometre trail features a narrow ridge, steep slopes, and stunning views. You must be an experienced hiker to reach the peak and witness the spectacular views. A great resource for hiking in the area is the Park Victoria website.
If you’re still working on your fitness for the seven-hour hike to Mount Feathertop, consider the less-challenging eleven-kilometre climb to Mount Buffalo. Aptly called the Big Walk, you can enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the Gorge and the Australian Alps. Don’t overlook some easier hikes on top of Mount Buffalo itself, offering stunning waterfalls, lakes, massive boulders and spectacular views. You can drive to the top of the mountain and explore from there. Your best reference for hiking Mount Buffalo is the Mount Buffalo Website.
Hit the bike trails
Bright is loaded with cycling enthusiasts and has a number of bike rental shops to help you explore the bike trails within the region should you not have your own gear. Some of the most popular trails include the beginner-friendly 11-kilometre Bright to Wandiligong trail traversing Morses Creek. If you’re raring for a longer ride, here are a couple of suggestions:
Murray to Mountains Rail Trail: The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, extends more than 100 kilometres and runs along the old Bright railway line all the way to Wangaratta. Bikers can enjoy Victoria’s abundant bounties, cafes, and wineries amidst Instagram-worthy views. This picturesque route stretches along Bright, Everton, Beechworth, Wandiligong, and nearby locations.
Great Valley Trail: If the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is too challenging for you to take on as a solo traveller, consider exploring the neighbouring town of Harrietville, a 24-kilometre ride from Bright. Although less busy than Bright, Harrietville is just as beautiful, and you can stop by several picnic spots along the Great Valley Trail to experience nature at its finest.
Mystic Mountain Bike Park: Whether a beginner, intermediate, or advanced mountain bike rider, you’ll definitely have fun traversing the off-road trails at Mystic Mountain Bike Park. The Park’s vast terrain provides an expansive network of easy and challenging trails, making a trip to Bright more memorable for adventure-seekers. There are some registration requirements to ride Mystic so be sure to find out if there’s anything you need to know or book prior to your holiday so you don’t miss out. Click here to read up on everything you need to know. Mystic Mountain is also a famous paragliding site, and it’s common to see paragliders soaring above the skies as you traverse the Park’s tracks.
After a thrilling ride, you may stop by the Bright Brewery to eat or take a rejuvenating dip by the Ovens River.
Enjoy a scenic drive to Mount Buffalo
If you feel safer driving a car than riding a biking or hiking, hit the road and drive to The Horn at Mount Buffalo National Park. Marvel at the sunrise or sunset views you won’t find anywhere else.
Mount Buffalo National Park, which consists of majestic waterfalls, expansive snow gum forests, and colossal granite boulders, is also a popular picnic, hiking, bush and cliff camping site boasting unique species of plants and wildlife endemic to the area. The Horn Lookout sits at the peak, is accessible by car and requires a brief 500-metre climb to reach its highest peak.
Take a refreshing dip or enjoy your favourite water sport
Looking for a great place to enjoy a quick dip? Bright and its surrounds spoil you with plentiful options to take away the stresses of city life. Mt. Buffalo National Park has a hidden gem called the Ladies Bath Falls. This gorgeous body of water is a popular swimming hole, albeit a quick dip as the temperatures stay pretty chilly all year round. The Park is also home to the famous picnic and campsite, Lake Catani. Don’t forget the Oven’s River, which spans from Harrietville, through Bright, Myrtleford, and Wangaratta with designated swimming spots for young and old to enjoy.
Harrietville also has a swimming spot called The Dredge Hole and Mount Beauty has the Pondage which is large enough for trout fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding. Meanwhile, Lake Buffalo, accessed through Myrtleford, is also a great spot for a relaxing dip.
Visit local breweries and wineries
Fancy a tipple while exploring nature’s beauty? If you’re not driving and can enjoy a few drinks, visit some of the local breweries and wineries in the area.
A trip to Bright isn’t complete without a quick stop at the iconic Bright Brewery. This popular watering hole is located on the banks of Ovens River. It serves pizza and chips and other yummy meals alongside its mountain-crafted beer. In Beechworth, you’ll find one of Australia’s oldest breweries, Bilson’s Brewery, which also serves meals and sells yet-to-be-released brews.
Wine lovers will also get their fill stopping by one or a few wineries along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. There’s the Feathertop Winery and Ringer Reef’s Cellar Door in Porepunkah, located on the foot of Mount Buffalo. Raise your glass to great-tasting wines and even more spectacular views!
Takeaway
Knowledge is power when planning your holiday, especially when travelling alone. So, gather as much information as you can about your planned destination, whether you’re eyeing a tranquil retreat in the mountains during winter or a sun-soaked outdoor adventure in the summer.
This guide helps ensure your next escape becomes a source of pure fun and seamless relaxation. Moreover, at Alpine Valley Getaways we’re always ready to equip you with valuable insights to help transform your Bright holiday into an unforgettable experience.