Great Alpine Road

Victoria's Great Alpine Road is one of Australia's great driving routes, winding 308 km through the Victorian Alps from Bairnsdale to Wangaratta. This is a journey of dramatic contrasts: lush river valleys, granite peaks, historic gold-rush towns, and some of the country's best cool-climate wineries. For international travellers, it's a chance to experience the High Country's rugged beauty, sample local produce, and soak up the laid-back vibe of alpine villages. The road is sealed and well-maintained, but be prepared for winding sections and changing weather – it's a drive that rewards those who take it slowly.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Hotham – Victoria's highest alpine resort, offering spectacular ridge-top views and excellent skiing in winter, plus hiking and mountain biking in summer.
• Bright – A charming town known for its autumn colours, craft breweries, and as a gateway for cycling the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail.
• Omeo – A historic gold-mining town with well-preserved 19th-century buildings and a fascinating museum.
• Falls Creek – Another premier ski resort with year-round appeal; in summer, hike to the summit of Mount McKay for panoramic views.
• Bogong High Plains – A stunning alpine plateau with walking trails, wildflowers in spring, and a chance to spot wild brumbies.
• Wineries of the King Valley – Sample Italian varietals like Prosecco and Sangiovese at cellar doors in this emerging wine region.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least three to five days to drive the full route properly, stopping overnight in towns like Bright, Mount Hotham, and Omeo. A two-day dash is possible but you'll miss the best walks and wineries. Break the drive into manageable chunks of 2–3 hours behind the wheel each day, with plenty of time for photo stops, short hikes, and a long lunch at a vineyard. If you're a keen skier or hiker, add extra days to explore the resorts.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alpine National Park – Adjacent to the road, with vast wilderness for bushwalking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
• Bright – Use as a base for day trips to Mount Buffalo National Park and the Buckland Valley.
• Beechworth – A beautifully preserved gold-rush town with a historic gaol and bakery famous for its pies.
• Wangaratta – The northern terminus of the road, with the Warby Ovens National Park and the Milawa Gourmet Region nearby.
• Lakes Entrance – On the Gippsland coast, offering the Ninety Mile Beach and lake cruises – a good start or end point.

Please check official sources for current details.