Great Alpine Road

Stretching 308 kilometers from Bairnsdale to Wangaratta, the Great Alpine Road is one of Australia’s great drives, cutting through the heart of Victoria’s High Country. This route takes you from lush river valleys up through towering eucalypt forests to alpine peaks, offering breathtaking views, charming historic towns, and world-class food and wine. It’s a journey that rewards slow travel—pull over at scenic lookouts, explore national parks, and taste local produce along the way.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Buffalo National Park – Drive to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding ranges and the chance to spot wildflowers and snow gums. In winter, the park offers cross-country skiing.
• Bright – A vibrant town famous for its autumn colours, craft breweries, and cycling trails. Don’t miss the Bright Brewery for a local ale and the Canyon Walk along the Ovens River.
• Omeo – A gold-rush-era town with well-preserved heritage buildings, including the Omeo Courthouse and the historic pub.
• Mount Hotham – One of Australia’s premier ski resorts, with epic views from the Great Alpine Road as it winds over the summit. In summer, enjoy hiking and mountain biking.
• Falls Creek – A year-round alpine village offering skiing in winter and incredible hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on Rocky Valley Lake in summer.
• Mitta Mitta River and Dartmouth Dam – Stop for a picnic or a short walk along the river; the dam is an engineering marvel set in stunning scenery.
• Wineries and Gourmet Produce – The King Valley and Alpine Valleys are known for their cool-climate wines, especially prosecco and pinot noir. Visit cellar doors like Brown Brothers or Pizzini for tastings.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least three to four days to drive the full length of the Great Alpine Road, taking time to stop at the main towns and attractions. If you’re short on time, focus on the section between Bright and Mount Hotham for the most dramatic scenery. A week gives you the chance to add side trips to national parks and soak up the region’s food and wine scene. Plan your drive carefully in winter, as snow and ice can affect road conditions and some sections may require snow chains.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wodonga & Albury – Gateway cities on the Murray River with excellent museums, galleries, and riverfront walks.
• Beechworth – A historic gold-mining town with beautifully preserved streets, a famous bakery, and Ned Kelly connections.
• Mount Beauty – A peaceful base for exploring Falls Creek and the Bogong High Plains, with great café culture and a brewery.
• Bairnsdale – The eastern start of the road, known for its historic buildings and proximity to the Gippsland Lakes.
• Wangaratta – The western terminus, a lively regional centre with a thriving arts scene and the King Valley wine region nearby.
• Lakes Entrance – A popular coastal town on the Gippsland Lakes, offering fishing, boating, and stunning beaches, about an hour south of Bairnsdale.

Please check official sources for current details.