Bright, Milawa, Porepunkah: Where to dine, stay and play in North East Victoria
From hiking in the Mount Buffalo National Park to checking out the laid-back Wandi pub beer garden, here’s some inspiration for your next visit to Bright, Milawa and surrounds.
HEAD to the hills of North East Victoria, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, fresh farm produce and countless off the beaten track adventures.
From having a picnic on the side of a mountain, to hiking trails up some of Australia’s tallest peaks, and tasting some of the best wine, beer, and food, the High Country has got you covered. Don’t forget to wear a mask, and call ahead and book.
PLAY
BRIGHT ADVENTURE COMPANY
If you are an adventure seeker looking for some thrills head to Bright Adventure Company offering everything from abseiling, rock climbing, kayaking, underground river caving and mountain biking. Their unique cliff picnic on Mt Buffalo are truly a once in a lifetime experience.
MT BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK
While at Mt Buffalo, if you are after something a little less high intensity, take one of the many trail walks on offer. One of the best is the Ladies Baths Falls, a short walk near the base of Mt Buffalo. Take a picnic, and cool off in the natural baths on a warm day.
MURRAY TO MOUNTAINS RAIL TRAIL
If you prefer two wheels, to walking, hire a bike from one of the bike shops in town and explore the rail trail which connects Bright to Wangaratta, or hit the Mystic Mountain Bike Park. For lycra lovers, the road cycling is endless, for climbers hit the epic Mt Hotham climb, or Mt Buffalo or for something with less elevation take on the Buckland Valley return loop, or head to Harrietville.
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DRINK
RINGER REEF WINERY
If relaxing means sitting back with a glass of wine or beer, then head to Ringer Reef at Porepunkah, a small family owned winery with views over the vineyard and Mt Buffalo. There Rose is a must try. Or why not winery hop at Milawa where there are number of wineries close by including the renowned Brown Brothers Estate. Sam Miranda is also a must try if in the area.
BLIZZARD BREWERY
If beer is more your flavour there are countless breweries, from Beechworth Brewery to Bright Brewery and Australia’s highest brewery, Blizzard Brewery at Dinner Plain, there is a beer to try for all palates.
EAT
WANDI PUB
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head 6km from Bright to the Wandi Pub at Wandiligong with all the traditional pub grub including a chicken parma or a scotch fillet, there is also some Asian inspired meals like the pork belly banh mi, or bibimbap. The beer garden here is one of the biggest and best. Another great spot for lunch is the historical Happy Valley Hotel at Ovens with an old style pub atmosphere.
NIGHTINGALE BROS
While at Wandiligong head to the Nightingale Bros apple farm and sample some of their fresh fruit, including cider.
STAY
KILN HOUSES, POREPUNKAH
For those with luxury in mind the Kiln Houses at Porepunkah offer three unique houses – Cavedons kilnhouse, Chinaman’s kilnhouse and The Sorting Shed. The three houses – each in a separate part of the farm – all have views of Mount Buffalo, Feathertop and Bogong, with grape vines and sleek black angus cattle in the foreground.
GLAMPING AT POREPUNKAH BRIDGE HOLIDAY PARK
For those on a budget there is no shortage of caravan parks across the high country. You can also try some glamping under the stars at the Porepunkah Bridge Holiday Park.
Have we missed something? Let us know. Email kirrily.carberry@news.com.au
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