Bright & Surrounds Scenic Drives

Seeing is believing.

Drive over Australia's highest main road for mountain views that stretch forever; explore the farm gates and wineries of the valleys; and carve your way up the sublime granite slopes of Mount Buffalo. A drive through the stunning landscapes of Bright & Surrounds should be high on everyone's list.

THE GREAT ALPINE ROAD VIA THE CROSS

Bright to Dinner Plain
Distance: 133 km return

For one of the most jaw-dropping drives you'll ever do, take the Great Alpine Road from Bright through Harrietville and Mount Hotham to Dinner Plain. See the mesmerising views from Danny's Lookout, head over The Cross - which at 1,845 m is the highest point of any main through-road in Australia - and visit the alpine village of Dinner Plain. See the Alpine National Park; go hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Snow chains must be carried during snow season. Entry fees to Mount Hotham apply during the ski season, however, fees don't apply if you drive through to Dinner Plain without stopping.

THINGS TO SEE

Harrietville village
Danny's Lookout
The Cross
Mount Hotham Alpine Resort
JB Plain Hut
CRB Hut
The Brabralung Trail (Hotham to Dinner Plain shared path)
Dinner Plain Alpine Village
Dinner Plain MTB Park (green season)
Dinner Plain toboggan slope (snow season)

THE VALLEYS LOOP

Bright via Mount Beauty and Ovens
Distance: 116 km return

This loop explores the beautiful Ovens, Kiewa and Happy Valleys and their towns, farm gates, breweries and wineries. From Bright, take the Great Alpine Road east and turn left at Tawonga Gap Road, upon which lies two lookouts with views of Mount Bogong. At the road's end, turn right onto the Kiewa Valley Highway and stop in Mount Beauty. Then, drive north on the highway to Running Creek and turn left onto Happy Valley Road, which will lead you back to the Great Alpine Road. Turn left and return to Bright via Ovens and Porepunkah.

THINGS TO SEE

Tawonga Gap Lookout
Sullivans Lookout
Crank Handle Brewery
AnnaPurna Estate
Eagle Range Estate
Homestead Estate
Happy Valley Hotel
Pepo Farms Farm Gate Store
The Red Stag Farm & Restaurant
Buffalo Berry Farm
Tatanka Gardens
Punkah Pub
Feathertop Winery (by appointment)
Ringer Reef Winery
Billy Button Cellar Door
Bright Brewery

MOUNT BUFFALO ROAD

Porepunkah to The Horn, Mount Buffalo
Distance: 74 km return

This drive through Mount Buffalo National Park is jam-packed with things to see, including panoramic views, Australia's largest timber building, waterfalls and walks. Grab supplies in Porepunkah then exit left onto the Great Alpine Road. At the round-a-bout, take the Mount Buffalo Road turn off. This road will take you all the way to Mount Buffalo's highest point - The Horn. During the snow season, you'll only be able to drive as far as Cresta Valley (snow chains required).

THINGS TO SEE