Victorian High Country

Victoria’s High Country is a rugged, soul-stirring landscape of rolling alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and deep river valleys. This is where you trade the coast for crisp mountain air, discover historic gold-rush towns, and taste some of Australia’s finest cool-climate wines. Whether you’re a hiker, cyclist, or food lover, the High Country delivers an authentic slice of Australian mountain life.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Buffalo National Park – A granite monolith offering stunning lookouts, waterfalls, and cross-country skiing in winter; the historic Mount Buffalo Chalet is a must-see.
• Bright – A vibrant alpine town with European charm, famous for its autumn colours, craft breweries, and access to mountain biking trails.
• Beechworth – One of Victoria’s best-preserved gold-rush towns, with honey-coloured buildings, the historic Beechworth Gaol, and superb bakeries.
• Falls Creek & Mount Hotham – Premier ski resorts in winter, and in summer they transform into hiking and mountain-biking havens with wildflower displays.
• Great Alpine Road – A scenic drive that winds from Wangaratta to the coast, passing through high passes, vineyards, and quaint villages.
• Milawa Gourmet Region – A foodie’s paradise with cheese makers, olive groves, and wineries like Brown Brothers.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the High Country, allocate at least four to five days. This allows for a relaxed self-drive loop: start in Beechworth and Bright, spend a night in each, then head into the mountains for a day hike or ski. If you’re short on time, a long weekend focused on Bright and Mount Buffalo still delivers. Summer and autumn offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while winter is perfect for snow sports.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wangaratta – A gateway town with a lively arts scene and the start of the Great Alpine Road.
• Yarra Valley – Victoria’s premier wine region, just a two-hour drive south, perfect for a post-mountain wine tour.
• Alpine National Park – For serious hikers and 4WD enthusiasts, offering remote wilderness and the highest peaks in Victoria.
• King Valley – Known as ‘Little Italy’ for its Italian-style wineries and excellent prosecco, ideal for a scenic detour.
• Mansfield – The closest town to Mount Buller, another ski resort with summer mountain biking and hiking trails.

Please check official sources for current details.