VICTOR IA'S ALPINE HIGH COUNTRY - EVERY SEASON EVERY REASON visitalpinevictoria.com.au - Australie
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V IC TOR IA’S ALPINE
HIGH COUNTRY
Bright • Mt Beauty • Myrtleford • Harrietville • Dinner Plain
Falls Creek • Mt Hotham • Mt Buffalo • Alpine National Park
E VERY SE A SON E VERY R E A SON
visitalpinevictoria.com.au
dinner plain E V E R Y S E A S O N E V E R Y R E A S O N www.visitdinnerplain.com
CONTENTS
V IC TO R I A’ S ALP IN E HIG H COUNTRY
Introduction 8 Falls Creek 36
History 10 Mount Hotham 40
Villages 14 Dinner Plain 42
National Parks 22 Food and Wine 46
Touring 26 Festivals and Events 48
Serene Activities 30 Directory 53
Adventure Sports and Activities 32 Directory Index 59
E V ERY S E A SON E V ERY R E A SON visitalpinevictoria.com.au
Disclaimer: Alpine Region Tourism, including its officers, agents and contractors (‘Publisher’), has made every endeavour to ensure that details appearing in
this publication are correct at the time of printing, but accept no responsibility for any inaccuracy or mis-description, whether by inclusion or omission, nor does
the Publisher accept any responsibility for subsequent change or withdrawal, or prices, details or services shown which are subject to alteration without notice.
VICTORIA’S ALPINE HIGH COUNTRY
Distance Chart (km)
Adelaide
Adelaide
Albury
Bogong Village
Albury 948
Bairns
Benalla
Bairnsdale 1007 375
Benalla 825 115 347
Bogong Village 995 106 199 162
Bright
Canberra
Bright 949 144 230 112 47
DinnerPlain
Canberra 1194 342 456 458 449 487
Falls creek
Dinner Plain 1012 207 167 180 100 70 549
Gapsted
Falls Creek 1009 120 185 177 15 61 462 114
Griffith
Gapsted 906 81 270 74 84 39 448 102 99
Harrietville
Griffith 837 310 685 334 416 454 358 518 430 417
Melbourne
Harrietville 974 130 206 138 54 27 511 40 69 64 479
Mt Beauty
Melbourne 730 325 281 212 372 326 667 389 386 284 462 352
Mt Hotham
Mt Beauty 980 91 217 147 16 32 433 88 31 70 401 39 357
Myrtleford
Mt Hotham 602 376 469 253 423 372 718 10 556 334 596 32 377 49
Porepunkah
Myrtleford 913 88 263 81 78 32 455 101 92 8 423 57 289 63 85
Omeo
Shepparton
Omeo 1056 251 122 224 77 108 550 45 63 146 561 84 399 94 55 139
Porepunkah 943 138 237 106 54 8 480 77 68 33 448 34 319 39 61 26 115
Wagga Wagga
Sydney
Shepparton 763 185 418 62 232 186 527 250 246 144 272 212 188 217 240 151 293 180
Wangaratta
Sydney 715 557 738 673 663 701 286 765 678 664 574 727 880 649 755 671 809 298 743
Wagga Wagga 950 129 505 244 235 273 243 337 250 210 191 299 454 220 327 217 381 267 314 458
Wodonga
Wangaratta 863 73 310 40 125 79 415 148 139 42 324 105 249 110 132 48 186 73 100 631 202
Wodonga 943 9 371 111 102 140 351 203 116 61 319 114 320 87 193 67 247 134 180 566 138 69
Estimated distances only. Please note many distances involve uphill travel.
Temperature Chart (Celsius)
Alpine Valleys January February March April May June July August September October November December
Maximum temperature 29.6 29.5 26.4 21.1 16.3 12.9 11.9 13.5 16.8 20.2 23.6 27.2
Minimum temperature 11.7 12.1 6.6 6.4 4.3 2.3 1.8 2.6 4 6.1 8 9.1
Monthly rainfall (mm) 61 51.3 62.8 75 103 112 131.5 133.8 111.6 110.1 77.9 73
Rainy days 5 4.2 5.3 6.4 9.3 10.5 12.5 12.6 10.5 9.9 7.7 6.2
Alpine Resorts January February March April May June July August September October November December
Maximum temperature 17.5 17.8 14.4 9.9 6.2 2.8 1.2 2.3 4.7 8.6 12.2 14.9
Minimum temperature 8 8.3 6.1 3.2 0.8 -1.8 -3.2 -2.4 -1.1 1 3.7 5.6
Monthly rainfall (mm) 93.8 64.3 100.5 94.6 147 175.7 173.6 142.6 166.2 150 137.7 133.5
Rainy Days 6.8 5.5 7.2 8.2 9.4 11.8 12.3 10.9 11.1 11.1 9.8 8
Average temperates only.
V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 7
There are many short INTRODUCTION
and long walks around
the mountains and
the valleys; just some
of many ways to take
Come and live the alpine high life
in the region’s charming
countryside and towns
Whether it’s fine food and wine, stunning views, adventure and fun,
or a chance to relax, Victoria’s Alpine High Country has it all.
V
ictoria’s Alpine High Country, shops and markets to museums, gardens
an easy drive from Melbourne, and art galleries. Alternatively, cycling is
Canberra or Sydney, is the a popular pastime, with the Murray to the
ideal getaway for couples, families and Mountains Rail Trail weaving its way past
adventurers alike. The area, famous for its several wineries, playgrounds and picnic
stunning scenery, also offers a vast range spots. There are many short and long walks
of local produce and fine dining options to around the mountains and the valleys; just
tempt your tastebuds. Check out the popular some of many ways to take in the region’s
gourmet stores and farms that feature charming countryside and towns. There is
our renowned olives, ice cream, nuts and also plenty to do for those who are a little
berries, along with quality seasonal fruit and more adventurous including paragliding
vegetables. You’ll also find trout, venison over the picturesque landscape, horseback
and a variety of smoked meats. Victoria’s riding, 4WD day trips, kayaking, rock
Alpine High Country is home to Good Food climbing or fishing tours.
Guide ‘Chef-Hat’ winning restaurants,
many of which take advantage of the fresh The region hosts annual festivals, including the
food available at local farmers’ markets. Bright Autumn Festival, the Kangaroo Hoppet
Irrespective of your food preference or price international ski event, the Bright Rod Run
range, there is sure to be a restaurant in our hot-rod spectacle and the Sled Dog Challenge.
region that will satisfy your culinary needs.
Travelling along the Great Alpine Road
A romantic meal is complete when it involves is a great way to soak up the scenery.
a romantic getaway, and again the region The 308-kilometre route winds from
is noted for its fabulous retreats. Stunning Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, taking in Mount
views are the order of the day for all types Hotham and Dinner Plain and including
of accommodation, including villas, studio breathtaking detours such as the Kiewa
apartments, homesteads or cabins. Caravan Valley and Mount Buffalo Drives.
parks have certainly become a favourite with
those travelling and are popular with families. The vast Alpine and Mount Buffalo National
Along with the many activities available for Parks provide a showcase of activities
children, including alpacas and the wonderful and plant life plus sights that will leave any
Wandi Maze, adults can also take time out nature buff awestruck. Victoria’s Alpine High
relaxing with a spa or massage or exploring Country boasts lovely valleys and villages,
the area’s award-winning wineries. Its cool including bustling Bright, stunning Mount
climate is perfect for varieties such as Beauty, historic Myrtleford, Happy Valley
riesling, merlot and shiraz, with tours of the and the beautiful Buckland Valley at the
numerous vineyards becoming increasingly base of Mount Buffalo. The region has a
popular. Beer lovers are also looked after rich history to share with its visitors. From its
via local boutique breweries. early pioneers and 1860s gold rush, to its
high country huts, historic tours and Kiewa Opposite page: Take in natural light shows and
As well as the thrill of learning to ski or Hydro Electric Scheme, there is plenty to spectacular views over the High Country.
Above (from top): A romantic walk through
snowboard in winter, there are countless discover along the way. Victoria’s Alpine
the vineyards; spectacular autumn valley views;
activities to enjoy, from browsing in antique High Country – come and live the ‘high life’. a fun family picnic at Porepunkah.
8 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 9
HIS TO RY
A land rich in history Four acres of country retreat with
panoramic views of Mount Buffalo
and the Ovens River.
"Enjoyment without the exhorbitant price tag."
That’s why our customers keep coming back.
Clean, comfortable and enjoyable
rooms for your enjoyment.
Farming and gold attracted people to Victoria’s Alpine Valley High Country,
creating a rich heritage that’s as diverse as our natural wonders.
Early Settlement discovered in the Buckland Valley around
Aboriginal people inhabited the Alpine High 1853. This brought a rush of adventurous
Country for thousands of years, and knew miners to the area for gold. Shanties
its flora, fauna, geography and seasonal sprang up along the roadside, although
changes intimately. Groups visited the Alps most of the diggers preferred to sleep A great destination for foodies and B&B Tariffs from $45 pp per night Ideal for dinner/bed & breakfast
wine connoisseurs, bus groups and 3 Day/2 Night mid-week D/B/B packages, weddings, conferences,
in summer to hold ceremonies and gather under the stars. Hold-ups and robberies
special interest groups. Package Tours from$310 pp. birthdays or anniversary
the nutritious Bogong moths that shelter were a common occurrence. 4 Day/3 Night from $420 pp.
Min.15 persons. All quoted tariffs are dbl/twin basis.
celebration events.
there. European pastoralists from NSW
started moving south into the Alps in the Bright was called the Ovens Township or Single Suppl. $30 per night.
1830s. Grazing began around Omeo in Morses Creek Settlement in 1856 and Ph/Fax: (03) 5756 2242 For more details, visit:
1836 and summer grazing soon extended several reports of groups of indigenous email: stay@buffalomotelretreat.com.au www.buffalomotelretreat.com.au
to the higher country, where huts were people living in the area during the early
built for shelter and storage during stock days of settlement have been documented
mustering. Wallace’s Hut near Falls Creek, by early pioneers. With the population Untitled-2 1 22/5/07 9:00:46 AM
built in 1889, is one of the oldest surviving and economy growing rapidly, mainly due
THE ALPINE
huts in the area. to the rich gold finds in the area, shops,
hotels and banks were soon established.
The 1939 bushfires in the forests around Sports days and races were very much
Melbourne and the boom in building part of the social agenda and were usually
houses after World War II led to a greatly
increased demand for timber from the Alps.
attended by people from every corner of
the district.
BRIGHT
This resulted in the building of a network
of roads that helped open the Alps to The principal part of the township Open 7 Days
visitors and the infrastructure that lead to a stretched out along the main through road
sustainable tourism industry. (now Gavan Street), with a scattering of TAB & Skychannel
huts and tents occupying the surrounding Live sports action on the big screen Accommodation, entertainment & meals in the centre of Bright
Mount Buffalo area. This changed in 1862 when a survey
Mount Buffalo was named because of its of the settlement was undertaken and the
Bar & bottleshop
alleged resemblance to a buffalo and with first land sales followed soon after. Most Bistro open for lunch & dinner daily
the beginning of tourism in the 1880s, of the land which already had shops or
The Star
an area around the spectacular Gorge dwellings built on them was sold to the
was reserved as Mount Buffalo National occupier. The price for an acre of land
Park in 1898. The Mount Buffalo Chalet fronting Gavan Street was £2.
was built in 1910 and the park became a OPEN FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER DAILY
popular holiday destination for succeeding The newly surveyed streets were named AFFORDABLE MOTEL ACCOMMODATION
generations and a place for early skiing and after politicians and lawyers of the time. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT
ice skating ventures. Mount Buffalo had the As the gold finds began to dwindle, many OPEN FIRES THROUGHOUT WINTER
first ski tow in Australia. miners turned to farming. The rich soil of SUNNY COURTYARD DINING & BEER GARDEN
the Ovens Valley proved adaptable to a
Bright and the Ovens Valley diverse range of agriculture, with tobacco, 91 Great Alpine Rd, Bright 7-9 Anderson Street, Bright VIC 3741
t 03 5755 1277 Tel 03 5755 1366
Above (from top): Chinese headstone in the During the early 1850s, after the gold hops, oats, maze, nuts and fruits grown
Buckland Valley; gliding over the magnificent thestarhotel@netc.net.au thealpinehotel@bigpond.com.au
rushes in the Beechworth area had along the valley. Vineyards and wineries
Kiewa Valley and Mount Beauty; historic tobacco
sheds at Myrtleford. subsided, a new, rich gold field was are not new to the valley and pine trees
10 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 11
INTRODUCTION
Many cattlemen’s were planted on land that was ruined for
agriculture by the destruction caused by
fella”. The first known European visit to the
Kiewa Valley was by Hume and Hovell in
township of Mount Beauty began in 1946
to provide temporary housing for workers.
1850s, was the region’s most infamous.
Bogong Jack’s real name was John
today it is known as the Great Alpine
Road. Most towns founded during
huts are still evident the gold dredges that had worked and November 1824. Following the drought of Payne and he was originally a drover the gold rush era were made up of a
scraped their way along the valley floor 1838-44, pastoralists sought out the rich At the completion of the scheme the who turned to horse stealing, which diverse mix of nations, and while the
on the High Plains. during the early 1900s. pastures in the fertile Kiewa Valley. For the housing was retained and Mount Beauty proved much more profitable. Eventually English and Irish accounted for a major
One of the more Today, evidence of early mining activities
remainder of the 19th century the major
activities in the Valley were cattle grazing,
now exists as one of the best examples of
a company town in Victoria. The influx of
captured, he was released due to lack
of evidence and sought refuge in his
proportion of the population, people from
Scotland, France, Poland, India, the
famous is Wallace’s can be found on the hillsides and along dairying, tobacco growing and timber European migrants, with their rich cultural hut near Mount Fainter. Bogong Jack United States, China and Italy contributed
Hut near Falls Creek, the riverbeds. Sluicing races, rock stacks
and open mines are testimony to the
harvesting and milling. backgrounds, also played a major part in
shaping the future character of the Kiewa
was never seen again and the mystery
of whether he turned to gold panning or
to the development of Myrtleford and
surrounding areas.
built in 1889 beginnings of the township. The boom in The Bogong High Plains became popular Valley and Falls Creek. was murdered for his fortune, remains a
agriculture still continues and the town as a summer grazing destination and mystery to this day. Migration
itself has grown from a small scraggly many cattlemen’s huts are still evident on Many of the workers on the scheme took The Chinese were very adept at market
settlement of timber and canvas dwellings the High Plains. One of the more famous advantage of the winter snows to pursue Myrtleford gardening and their vegetables were
to a busy tourist destination with a large is Wallace’s Hut near Falls Creek, built their passion for skiing, with the Bogong Ski From 1837, the township of Myrtleford highly sought after. Indian hawkers
variety of shops, restaurants and cafes. in 1889. Club founded in July 1940. The popularity was a remote cattle run known as the trundled their wares around the district
of skiing at Falls Creek (originally known Myrtle Creek Run. Forming the boundary and they were always a welcome sight
Mount Beauty and the The third wave of visitors to the Valley as Horseshoe Creek) saw an increase in of the runs, Myrtle Creek was given to children who delighted in the mystery
Kiewa Valley came in 1911 when a private syndicate tourism to the area. Tourism has grown its name by the first Europeans in the of such an array of goods. During the
For many years prior to the arrival of investigated the possibility of establishing significantly to be the main activity in the area. When gold was discovered in the 1920s large numbers of Italian migrants
European settlers, Aborigines had a hydro-electric scheme. The Kiewa Kiewa Valley today. Buckland Valley, thousands of diggers arrived in the district and established
appreciated the cool, clear waters of the Valley became the site of the first major had to cross Myrtle Creek on their themselves in the tobacco industry.
river, which was given the Aboriginal name hydro-electric power development in the Bogong Jack way to the goldfields. A small township Through sheer hard work, they were able
Kiewa – “sweet water”. Victoria’s highest Victorian Alps and took 26 years from the Alpine High Country history wouldn’t developed around the fording place, with to buy their own farms and the tobacco
mountain, Mount Bogong, situated at the original concept to open. It was completed be complete without a bushranger and the name of Myrtleford consequently industry began to boom, especially
Above: The Wallace brothers built Wallace’s Hut
head of the Kiewa Valley, also took its in 1961 and at its peak employed more ‘Bogong Jack’, who outwitted the law adopted. The road through Myrtleford following a second influx of Italians after
near Falls Creek. Popular with bushwalkers,
it is now classified by the National Trust. name from an Aboriginal word meaning “big than 4000 people. Construction of the between Gippsland and the Murray in the was then called the Buckland Road; World War II.
12 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 13
VILL AGES
Bright is a
bustling village
full of wonderful
things to do
and myriad
Every village tells a different story
places to stay
Choose from a host of towns in Victoria’s Alpine High Country, all with their own
unique stories to tell and a range of features to complement your stay.
C
ountry towns are shaped by access during the construction phase,
their history, and by the waves the completed facility will offer power
of inhabitants who have lived in station access for visitors, as well as a full
them over many years. Victoria’s Alpine visitor centre. Situated on the edge of Lake
High Country villages tell many different Guy, Bogong Village is a summer favourite
stories, of the early settlers, the mountain for canoeing, fishing and swimming,
cattlemen, the gold rush and the Italian bushwalking, tennis and horse riding.
migrants who came here after both There are excellent barbecue and picnic
world wars. facilities overlooking Lake Guy and the
East Kiewa River too. In winter, the village
More recently, the villages have become is popular with skiers and snowboarders.
focal points for the food and wine of the
region, and a base for lots of adventure Bright
activities. Festivals and events are also Bright by name and brilliant by nature. In
well-established, bringing visitors back autumn, Bright’s famous avenues of huge
year after year for celebrations including deciduous trees – oaks, elms, poplars and
the Bright Autumn Festival, the Kangaroo Japanese maples – many of which are now
Hoppet, an international cross country ski more than 70 years old, paint the town red,
race held in Falls Creek each August, and orange, gold and yellow.
Myrtleford’s Golden Spurs Rodeo, which
has become a Boxing Day tradition. Bright’s first settlers arrived after the
exploration of Hume and Hovell in 1824,
Anglers Rest and the cattlemen began summer grazing
Anglers Rest offers fantastic fishing at their beasts in the High Country in the
the point where the Cobungra, Mitta Mitta middle of the 19th century. The gold rush
and Bunadarra Rivers converge. The Blue hit about the same time, with the nearby
Duck Inn is the place to cool your toes Buckland Valley producing rich finds.
and enjoy great food and a cold drink and A new railway line was opened to Bright
enjoy a yarn about life in the Alpine High in 1890, and now forms part of the 98-
Country. Stay at The Duck and spend some kilometre Murray to the Mountains Rail
time exploring with a fly-fishing guide, on Trail bike path.
horseback or, during the spring, on a white-
water raft. Bright is a bustling village full of
wonderful things to do and myriad places
Bogong Village to stay. You’ll find markets, boutique
Nestled between Mount Beauty and Falls shopping, a funky brewery, liquor
Creek, Bogong Village is hidden in a distillery, fine dining, wineries, an art
peaceful valley surrounded by magnificent gallery and a host of festivals such as
gardens. Once the main village for the the Bright Autumn Festival, Bright Rod
Opposite page: Bright town centre during the
Bright Autumn Festival. hydro electricity workers of the 1940s, Run and Bright Spring Festival. There are
Above (from top): Enjoy majestic views from it is now used as a base for the brand plenty of popular outdoor activities too.
Mount Buffalo; High Country cattlemen’s horses
provide a living link to the past; Victoria’s Alpine new Bogong Power Station, which will be You may like to try your hand at fishing,
High Country is a gourmet’s paradise. completed in 2009. While there is limited canoeing, rafting, cycling, bushwalking,
14 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y
Above: Mount Beauty in the Kiewa Valley. 4WD adventure, tandem microlighting, spoil yourself at the Onsen Retreat and
Below (from top): Resting at Eurobin on the
Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail; the vibrant hang gliding or paragliding. There are Spa. Annual events include the Sled
township of Bright. many walking tracks in and around Bright Dog Challenge, Mountain Fresh Food EAGLE SCHOOL OF
too, and you can have a dip in the Ovens
River along the way. If golf’s your game,
and Wine Festival, the Great Alpine
Tour motorcycle event, and the Easter
MICROLIGHTING
SCENIC INSTRUCTIONAL FLIGHTS.
a great setting is guaranteed at the Geebung Polo Match. Explore Mt Buffalo and Bright with our two accredited chief
Bright Country Golf Club, which hosts flying instructors, Steve and Lisa Ruffels.Share the thrill
signifi cant annual tournaments. Eurobin with a friend and fly at the same time on a twin-flight, unique
to Eagle School of Microlighting. Experience the serenity of
A tiny hamlet that’s in the heart of engine-less flight from 3000-6000 feet when we switch off
Buckland Valley horticulture land, Eurobin features roses, the motor. Capture your entire flight on our wing-mounted
digital cameras.
Just minutes from Bright, The Buckland berries, walnuts and chestnuts. With an
Valley is quickly establishing itself as an old railway station site, it’s also one of the Flights from $70 to $175.
This may be the beginning of a lifelong flying dream.
important part of any Alpine High Country scenic stops for cyclists on the historic Enquire about our license courses.
itinerary. With boutique accommodation Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail. Eurobin p: (03)5750 1174 or 0428 570168
and food including the stylish Buckland is also home to the Red Stag Deer and e: fly@eagleschool.com.au
www.eagleschool.com.au
Cafe, an alpaca farm, apple orchards, Emu Complex, featuring majestic deer,
Chinese diggings from the gold rush days ostrich, emus and goats.
and chestnut orchards, this picturesque
valley is nestled at the base of Mount Falls Creek
Buffalo, just outside Porepunkah. The ski resort of Falls Creek is a
pretty year-round alpine village, with
Dinner Plain downhill and cross-country skiing and
Dinner Plain Village is situated 11 snowboarding in winter, and bushwalking,
kilometres from Mount Hotham. Set trail riding, fishing, cycling, windsurfi ng
among the snow gums, the architecture and boating in summer. Falls Creek
of Dinner Plain is reminiscent of the has a vibrant dining scene, with great
High Country cattlemen’s huts. Open restaurants and cafés and lots of
all year round, Dinner Plain features an accommodation options. If you’re visiting
extensive choice of accommodation, during summer, the drive through to
cafés, restaurants and bars. Relax by Omeo (35 kilometres of unsealed road)
the fireside, explore the bush trails or is a must-do.
16 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y
An aptly named town, VILL AGES
Mount Beauty sits at
Freeburgh and Smoko
the base of Victoria’s Situated between Bright and Harrietville,
Mount Beauty is home to some major
festivals too, including the Bogong Cup
highest mountain, these two little towns along the Great International Hang Gliding Championships
Alpine Road are home to some of the held in January, and the Mount Beauty
Mount Bogong region’s most diverse horticultural Music Festival every April. The Kiewa
products. Here you’ll find a berry and nut Valley also offers a multitude of great
farm plus orchards of chestnuts, hazelnuts food and wine prospects, including the
and walnuts. freshly cooked delights at Treats Café and
a delicious range of wineries each with
Gapsted their own wine styles and personalities.
Five kilometres on the Great Alpine Road The Alpine Discovery Centre has visitor
before Myrtleford, Gapsted is another information facilities and extensive
agricultural hamlet, home to the award- interpretive displays of the history and
winning Gapsted Winery and Cellar Door geography of this area.
and flower, walnut and asparagus farms
with seasonal gate sales. Mount Buffalo
Proclaimed a national park in 1898,
Harrietville this island in the sky is renowned for its
The last town before Mount Hotham, magnificent granite tors, spectacular
Harrietville is an historic goldmining town valley views, waterfalls, bushwalking and
that was settled in 1852. Its history is adventure pursuits including rock climbing,
captured in a riverside park that celebrates abseiling and cycling. In winter, Mount
the local pioneers, and is a pleasant Buffalo is a popular snow destination,
spot to picnic or stretch your legs. There especially with families. Mount Buffalo
are lots of great places for lunch or a Gorge is simply breathtaking, with a
leisurely afternoon tea. Take time to visit sea of clouds often seen all the way to
the lavender and trout farms, blueberry Mount Bogong and Mount Kosciusko in
and tree farms, ice creamery, pubs and the distance. The park became a popular
jam maker while you’re here. If you’re holiday destination for early skiing and ice
properly equipped and fit, you can take skating ventures and today attracts families
the walking tracks to Mount Hotham or for its snow play activities.
Mount Feathertop, which are challenging
but spectacular. Mount Hotham
A skier’s paradise. With more natural
Mount Beauty snowfalls than any other Victorian
An aptly named town, Mount Beauty mountain, people flock from around the
sits at the base of Victoria’s highest world to Mount Hotham for their ski holiday
mountain, Mount Bogong (1986 metres). every year. In summer, Mount Hotham
This beautiful little town was planned and is best known for its mountain biking,
created by the State Electricity Commission bushwalking, fly fishing and touring the
in the late 1940s, and was originally home Great Alpine Road. There’s a spectacular
to the thousands of workers who built the walk from Mount Hotham to Mount
Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. Feathertop if you’re fit, or take a ride or
walk to nearby Dinner Plain. Mount Hotham
Today, Mount Beauty is regarded as an was named after Governor Hotham by
adventure mecca and the focal point for Baron Ferdinand von Mueller, who explored
a variety of adventure activities, including it in 1854.
mountain biking, road biking, 4WD, horse
riding, bushwalking, gliding and hang Myrtleford
gliding, as well as tennis, swimming, First known as Myrtle Creek Run in the
boating and fishing in streams and lakes. early 1800s, Myrtleford later became
If you’re up for a challenge, try the golf established on the Buckland Track by the
course or walk to the top of Mount District Surveyor in 1858. Reform Mine
Opposite page: Mount Bogong dominates
Bogong. If you’d like to take it easy, have was the lifeblood of Myrtleford for 30 years the stunning skyline over Mount Beauty.
a picnic or a barbecue beside swimming from the early 1850s to 1888, yielding Above (from top): Vineyards at Gapsted; glorious
sunset at Mount Buffalo: cascading waterways
holes in the Kiewa River or make a friend 21,500 ounces of gold, which today would abound; one of Bright’s avenues of deciduous
for life at the alpaca farm. be valued at more than $9 million. autumn trees.
V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 19VILL AGES
Opposite page: The Chinese swing bridge at along Happy Valley you’ll find a selection
Wandiligong. LEFT (from top): Omeo’s historic
Post Office; The Horn at Mount Buffalo; of the region’s great bed and breakfasts,
experience some High Country romance. a lavender farm, an olive grove,
wineries, orchards and the excitement
Hops and tobacco have been grown on of a breathtaking scenic flight over the
the rich alluvial flats of the Ovens and magnificent Alpine High Country.
Buffalo Rivers around Myrtleford since
the mid-1880s, and you can still see Porepunkah
tobacco kilns as you drive the Great A small town at the junction of the Ovens
Alpine Road. and Buckland Rivers, with idyllic picnic
spots along the riverbanks, Porepunkah
Today, Myrtleford’s fields grow timber, is also right on the Murray to the
walnuts, beef and grapes, and the town’s Mountains Rail Trail. It’s the nearest town
big events are the annual street market to Mount Buffalo, and its airfield offers
in January and the Tobacco Hops and flights and the thrill of microlighting.
Timber Festival in March. The latter is a Canoeing and rafting on the river is also
celebration of the local agriculture and popular as is swimming in the
cultural heritage. It highlights the Italian refreshing waterhole.
settlement of the region and features
horticulture, wine making and local Tawonga and Tawonga South
produce. Positioned with a dramatic These peaceful rural communities in the
backdrop of Mount Buffalo and situated by upper reaches of the Kiewa Valley are
the Ovens River, you’ll also find the Murray famous for Kiewa River trout fishing,
to the Mountains Rail Trail running through beautiful countryside, views of Mount
this pretty town. Bogong and great camping facilities.
Nug Nug and Lake Buffalo The Kiewa Valley wine industry is also
From Myrtleford, turn off to the Buffalo rapidly developing, with five cellars
River and travel through the pretty valley providing samples of locally grown merlot,
which was once home to a great deal of cabernet sauvignon, pinot and shiraz
the region’s tobacco. The road follows the wines, and fresh produce featured in
route of the Buffalo River through Nug antipasto and more extravagant banquets.
Nug and then to Lake Buffalo. Fishing, If you need a little exercise after a day of
swimming, boating and canoeing are indulgence, you’ll find plenty of walking
favourite pastimes on the lake, as are and cycling tracks and trails suitable for
hovercraft rides during summer. all ages and stages.
This area is a 4WD gateway to the
wilderness beyond. Wandiligong
While in Bright, take the beautiful
Omeo river walk to the preserved village of
VILLAGES MUST DO LIST Omeo has a complex history, created Wandiligong. Once buoyed by agriculture
■ Cycle the Murray to the by European and Chinese gold seekers, and the gold rush, the whole of
Mountains Rail Trail mountain cattlemen and farming families. Wandiligong is now registered with the
■ Take a High Country horse ride There are many impressive 19th century National Trust. Wandiligong is full of
at Anglers Rest buildings including the post office, court quaint little buildings, including miners’
■ Visit Bright in autumn or spring house, pub and the 1858 jail built of logs. cottages, the Manchester Unity Hall of
for a colourful display of trees If you want to explore the goldmining 1874 and the town’s century-old
and flowers history a little more, visit nearby Cassilis, general store.
■ Stop for a tasting at one of the the Oriental Claims and Victoria Falls
wonderful wineries historic areas. The annual Easter Omeo A drink at the local pub is recommended,
■ Enjoy a coffee year-round at one Rodeo attracts daredevil riders from and so is a walk through the historic
of our alpine resorts across Australia to this town full of history. Diggings where you can discover the
■ Buy a unique souvenir from one Chinese swing bridge. And if travelling
of our interesting markets Ovens and Happy Valley with kids, make sure you visit the Wandi
■ Admire the view from the top A popular stop-over for travellers for Maze, Australia’s largest living hedge
of Mount Buffalo almost 150 years, Ovens still boasts its maze, for hours of fun and the tallest slice
landmark hotel of 1854. A little further of cake you’ll ever see.
20 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R YN AT I O N A L PA R K S
If you dream of
sitting high on a
mountain top with
some of the most
Activities for everyone majestic views
imaginable, this is
in our National Parks the place to be
The Alpine National Parks are ideal for both leisurely and more rigourous
strolls, where you can enjoy some of the finest views in the land.
I
f you dream of sitting high on a mountain herb fields, grasslands and moss beds,
top with some of the most majestic which all display exquisite alpine flowers
views imaginable, this is the place to in the warmer months.
be. The Alpine National Park is Victoria’s
largest, with 10 of the state’s 11 highest Mount Buffalo National Park
mountains. Nearby, the smaller Mount For a park of only 31,000 hectares, Mount
Buffalo National Park is one of Australia’s Buffalo manages to cram in an extraordinary
oldest and undoubtedly one of its most range of attractions and activities. Declared
beautiful. You can visit both on a trip to a national park in 1898, Mount Buffalo
Victoria’s Alpine High Country, taking walks is loved by bushwalkers, adventurers and
amid wildflowers and birds from spring birdwatchers alike – and by those who just
to autumn, before seeing the landscape want to take it easy in the clear mountain air.
transformed by snow in winter.
A stroll in the warmer months will reveal
Alpine National Park many birds, so keep an eye out for lyrebirds
So much to see, so much to do – it’s no scratching along track edges for insects
wonder our national parks are high on the list and grubs. At dusk and dawn you might
of favourite destinations. The Alpine National see wallabies, wombats and possums,
Park covers 646,000 hectares, with Mount while around the Horn, raven often dart in
Bogong, Mount Feathertop and the rolling and out of crevices to feed on the Bogong
high plains its best known features. moths while peregrine falcons nest in the
granite rock faces. The one bird you won’t
Dinner Plain and Falls Creek both have miss is the brilliant crimson rosella which is
year-round accommodation, so it’s easy abundant throughout the park.
to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds,
flora, fauna and alpine activities. Highlights of Mount Buffalo are the
network of walking tracks – Lake Catani for
The park is home to more than 1100 native canoeing, camping, fishing and swimming,
plant species, 12 of which (including the and the Gorge for adventure activities.
Bogong daisy bush and silky daisy) are only
found here. Among its fauna is the rare The Gorge,
mountain pygmy-possum, the world’s only Mount Buffalo National Park
exclusively alpine marsupial, which stores Duration: 1 hour.
food to last through the winter. Distance: 2.5 kilometres.
Grade: Good track; flat grade.
And as you drive or walk higher and higher Take an easy walk around the top of the
in the park, you’ll find the alpine climate famous Gorge, with tumbling waterfalls,
creates marked changes in the vegetation. huge granite tors and the highest vertical
Alpine ash occupy the mountain forests, cliffs in Australia. Stop at lookouts at the
while snow gums dominate once you most spectacular points, especially Crystal
Opposite page: Watching the sunrise at reach the snowline. Way up in exposed Brook Falls plunging nearly 300 metres from
The Cathedral, Mount Buffalo. Above (from top):
Enjoying the native flora; Gang-gang cockatoo; areas, where winter conditions are too the rim. Far below are the fertile Buckland
canoeing on Lake Catani at Mount Buffalo. harsh for trees, are heathlands, alpine Valley with its vineyards and farms.
22 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 2314 luxurious
apartments
in the heart
of Falls Creek.
From the hot tub on your private balcony,
unwind and soak in the beautiful views of
Falls Creek, the Kiewa Valley and Spion
Kopje. Huski is the perfect base from which to
explore the high plains by foot, mountain bike,
skis or snowboard. With Endota at Huski Day
Spa and Huski Produce Store at hand, your
summer or winter break in the high plains can
be enjoyed in luxurious style.
• Studio apartments
• 1, 2 ,3 bedroom apartments, each with
private hot tub on balcony and superb views
• 4 bedroom, split level penthouse
apartments with hot tub on the balcony and
spectacular views across the Kiewa Valley,
Falls Creek and Spion Kopje
• Fully self contained, including linen, towels,
European laundry, well equipped kitchen
Above: There are a variety of hiking trails to suit all Wallace’s Hut – Cope Hut, Mount Feathertop via Razorback, • Guest hot tub and BBQ on outdoor terrace
bushwalking skills in Victoria’s Alpine High Country. • Lift access to all floors
Bogong High Plains Alpine National Park
1300 652 260 • Short listed in ‘The Australian’ Travel &
Duration: 3 hours. Duration: Full day – at least 8 hours return. bookings@huski.com.au Tourism Awards 2006
NATIONAL PARK MUST DO Distance: 6.7 kilometres. Distance: 22 kilometres. 3 Sitzmark St, Falls Creek, Vic 3699 • Awarded ‘Best Ski Resort’ in the Wallpaper
Grade: Good track; easy grade Grade: Rocky, rough track; steep grade. www.huski.com.au Design Awards 2006
■ Take a walk and admire the view
(summer and autumn). This trek from Mount Hotham should
■ Spot interesting birds all year
Graziers, skiers and bushwalkers have only be attempted by fit and experienced HUS Alpine High 260207.indd 1 26/2/07 2:45:10 PM
round
sheltered in huts in the Bogong High Plains walkers, as it is rough, rocky and steep
■ Admire the beautiful alpine
for many years. This walk takes you to two in places. The track first drops to the Big DINNER PLAIN – Dinner Plain Visitor Information Centre
wildflowers
of the best known – Wallace’s Hut, built in Dipper Saddle, traversing open snow grass,
■ Discover the historic High We know Dinner Plain. We can provide information on:
1899 and now classified by the National low shrubs and snow gum woodlands. Then
Country huts
Trust, and Cope Hut, established in 1929. you walk along the sharp, craggy spine of • Activities • Accommodation
■ Challenge yourself to a full
It’s a circuit walk through open snow gum the Razorback to the rocky bluffs of Twin
day trek • Attractions • Local events
country, passing beside one of the grass- Knobs and Mount Feathertop. At lunchtime
edged aqueducts that carry water to the you’ve got the best seat in the house, with Walk it, ride it, bike it, ski it. Dinner Plain – Enjoy It!
Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme. 360-degree views across the alps. Dinner Plain Visitor Information Centre
572 Big Muster Drive, Dinner Plain, VIC 3898
The Gorge Walking Map Wallace’s Hut Walking Map Mount Feathertop Walking Map p: 1300 734 365 e: info@dinnerplain.com
www.dinnerplain.com
Parks Victoria has Easter and summer programs in the school holidays in Mount Buffalo National Park.
For details, call Parks Victoria on 13 19 63, or visit www.parkweb.vic.gov.au
24 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R YThe Great Alpine Road TOU R IN G
is Australia’s highest
bitumen road, with
year-round accessibility
and stop-you-in-your-
tracks views The Great Alpine Road
for every driver, every rider
Take a drive or a ride along a spectacular piece of road, with a wide range
of activities for those with adventure in mind.
W
hether you’re travelling on reminiscent of the pretty and peaceful
four wheels or two, you’ll alpine valleys of Europe.
find some of Australia’s most
spectacular touring routes in Victoria’s The Mount Buffalo drive takes you from
Alpine High Country. The peak experience Bright-Porepunkah-Mount Buffalo-
is undoubtedly Mount Hotham at 1825 Porepunkah and back to Bright. It’s the
metres on the Great Alpine Road – this best way to ensure you see the Mount
is Australia’s highest bitumen road, with Buffalo National Park on your travels.
year-round accessibility and stop-you-in- Alternatively leave Bright for the nearby
your-tracks views. Two wheel travellers heritage-listed village of Wandiligong,
find plenty of excitement in the twists and before heading back toward Harrietville,
turns of the mountain roads leading to Mount Hotham, Dinner Plain and Omeo.
Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mount
Buffalo. And for cyclists, there’s 98 For Motorcyclists
kilometres of glorious High Country views Want a challenge? Then try the tight curves
on the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail on the Great Alpine Road to Mount Hotham,
between Bright and Wangaratta, plus the Mount Beauty-Falls Creek alpine road
many options at Mount Beauty and the and the steep road that winds up to Mount
beautiful Kiewa Valley. Buffalo. (These roads are not suitable for
motorbikes from June to October). If you’re
The Great Alpine Road in cruise mode, a loop around the region
The Great Alpine Road, a 308-kilometre will give you straight stretches of road
route from Wangaratta through Mount along the Great Alpine Road and Kiewa
Hotham and Dinner Plain to Bairnsdale, Valley Highway, with some good bends on
is an extraordinary drive at any time of the roads between Happy Valley, Mount
year (please note chains must be carried Beauty, Tawonga and Bright.
during the winter months). It packs
a powerful scenic punch, taking you For Cyclists
past valleys, mountains, forests, rivers, Imagine cycling nearly 100 kilometres
vineyards, farms and historic villages along an easy, sealed trail through an
before arriving at Bairnsdale, near the ever-changing rural and High Country
ocean, in Gippsland. backdrop, stopping at historic towns and
at wineries where the ‘open’ sign invites
While this route can be covered easily in you to the cellar door. Well, that’s the
a day, you’d miss out on a great deal of 98-kilometre Murray to the Mountains
countryside if you don’t take the Discovery Rail Trail, arguably Australia’s best cycling
Route loops. For example, there’s the trail. Following historic railway lines,
Kiewa Valley Drive, which includes where many old station sites can still be
Myrtleford-Ovens-Happy Valley-Tawonga- seen, the trail winds its way from Bright
Mount Beauty-Bright, or Mount Beauty- to Myrtleford with a detour to Beechworth Opposite page: High Country touring excitement.
Falls Creek-Omeo-Bright in summer. before arriving in Wangaratta. The Above (from top): Breathtaking scenery on two
wheels; discover the thrill of travelling the Great
The Kiewa Valley, where the highway gradients are gentle, so the ride is suitable
Alpine Road; a welcome rest on the Murray to the
follows the route of the Kiewa River, is for all ages and levels of fitness. Mountains Rail Trail at Porepunkah.
26 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 27Bicycle hire is available at Bright, road. There are also lots of tracks for Above: Take as long as you want to navigate the
wondrous Great Alpine Road.
Myrtleford, Mount Beauty, Beechworth mountain bikes and touring bikes around
and Wangaratta and towns along the trail Bright, Porepunkah, Mount Beauty and drive takes you over the stunning Victorian
offer a wide range of accommodation the valleys. Alps. Drive Australia’s highest year-round
options. For more information on the accessible sealed road up lofty mountains,
Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail, The Great Alpine Road is also included into valleys and past rivers and vineyards
visit www.railtrail.com.au in the new Sydney to Melbourne Touring to the ocean. Along the way have an
Tip: Check your brakes, arrange to have Routes. It’s one of three distinctive touring outdoor adventure - experience rock
your bike transported up Mount Buffalo, routes that take you between Australia’s climbing, hang-gliding or white-water
then ride down this steep and winding two largest cities. The ‘Adventure’ route rafting and snow sports in winter. Sample
gourmet delights at welcoming towns along
Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail Map the way. For more information go to
www.sydneymelbournetouring.com.au
For more details on the Great Alpine
Road, visit www.greatalpineroad.info
TOURING MUST DO
■ Take a drive or ride along the
Great Alpine Road
■ Stop at some of the breathtaking
look-outs
■ Choose one of the interesting
loop tours
■ Get your heart rate going with
a challenging bike ride
■ Visit a fascinating village
■ Take part in festivals such as the
Great Alpine Tour or Audax
Alpine Challenge
28 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R YSERENE ACTIVITIES
Perhaps a round of
golf is more your
scene. You’ll find
impressive 18-hole
Activities for the more golf courses in Bright
and Myrtleford and
serene and less extreme for those looking for
a tougher challenge,
A wide range of options exists for those who simply want to wind down, Mount Beauty
catch their breath and learn to relax again.
F
or the more serene adventure History enthusiasts will admire the Bright
seekers, there are many activities Museum and the Old School Museum in
sure to delight. Indoors, you’ll find Myrtleford. While in Myrtleford, be sure
impressive art galleries with exhibitions all to also stop at the Tobacco Kiln, right at
year round, an array of museums, antique the entrance to the town. It’s a wonderful
and boutique shopping and coffee stops. dedication to one of the industries the town
Step outside and you’ll discover a multitude was built on. Just down the road you’ll find
of options: golf, tennis, walking trails, the Phoenix Tree, where you’ll see the
swimming spots, animals, barbecue and Phoenix Bird sculptured by Hens Knorr in
picnic facilities and historical attractions. the centre of its root system.
There are public tennis courts in The Alpine Discovery Centre at Mount
Porepunkah, Bright, Myrtleford and Mount Beauty has an interesting exhibit on the
Beauty and you’ll also find courts at many Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme and
accommodation properties. There are Harrietville’s Pioneer Park is a prominent
scores of walks that feature rivers, hillsides reminder of the town’s gold rush days.
and valleys creating magnificent settings, or Wandiligong should also be on your
perhaps a round of golf is more your scene. itinerary. It’s a National Trust village with
You’ll find impressive 18-hole golf courses in quaint buildings including a school, century-
Bright and Myrtleford and for those looking old general store and, of course, a pub.
for a tougher challenge, Mount Beauty. When you’re in Wandiligong, visit the Wandi
Maze, which will provide hours of fun to
Those born to shop will find pleasure in kids and adults alike.
Bright and Myrtleford, where fabulous
shops abound. You’ll find specialty shops, If the kids just can’t resist animals, then
Opposite page: Fun and fitness in a game of golf at antiques and bric-a-brac along the way and you can’t miss the alpaca farms at Mount
Bright. Above (from top): Relax at a gorgeous day chocolate lovers will find paradise in Bright Beauty and the Buckland Valley. These
spa; the colourful produce at Sweet Retreat, Bright.
at the Sweet Retreat. The region plays friendly animals love to be patted and
host to regular markets, which provide a while the kids are busy, duck into the retail
SERENE MUST DO fantastic range of home made goodies outlets for an afternoon tea or a piece of
■ Absorb some history at a museum and produce. alpaca merchandise. Then there’s the Red
or the Alpine Discovery Centre Stag Deer Restaurant and Deer and Emu
■ See an exhibition at the If you’re a lover of art, then let the Bright Tourist Farm at Eurobin, which sits on 60
Bright Art Gallery Art Gallery’s exhibitions tempt you. The acres neighbouring Mount Buffalo National
■ Discover some shopping delights Gallery houses a diverse range of art Park. It gives visitors the chance to feed,
■ Relax at a gorgeous day spa works including oil, watercolour, porcelain touch and learn about these majestic
■ Visit the Phoenix Tree and Hens
paintings, designer glass and sculpture. animals, plus ostrich and goats.
Knorr sculpture at Myrtleford The permanent collection features artists,
■ Visit the historic village of
both local and from all over Australia, who Victoria’s Alpine High Country has two
Wandiligong have been winners of the annual Autumn superb lavender farms with a large range
Art Exhibition which has been running of lavender oil products, and a trout farm
■ Enjoy dinner at one of our Chef
Hat-winning restaurants since 1962 and is the largest regional art where you’re welcome to drop a line or
exhibition in Victoria. simply taste the trout pate.
30 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R YDiscover the true ADVENTURE SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES
excitement of Victoria’s
Alpine High Country,
an area rich in cultural
history, spectacular
Pack your adventure gear
scenery and a mountain
playground for outdoor
enthusiasts and Pack your adventure gear, head out of the city and get set for some
hardcore adventurers heart-stopping, adrenaline-pumping fun on land, in water and in the air.
T
his is adventure country with a Mountain bikers will find the back
capital A. If ‘extreme’ is your Germantown Road to Tawonga Road and
thing, try the adventure of the Bakers Gully Road to Huggins lookout
walking in Victoria’s Alpine High Country irresistible. Cyclists and walkers will enjoy
and camping overnight in the historic the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail,
cattlemen’s huts. You can also take a which links the towns of Wangaratta,
4WD expedition, or maybe you’d prefer Beechworth, Myrtleford, Porepunkah and
activities such as abseiling, caving, Bright. The Rail Trail follows the original
paragliding, hang gliding, mountain biking, route of the historic rail link between
horse riding, fly-fishing or canoeing. Bright and Wangaratta, with a diversion to
There’s also rock climbing, underground Beechworth and Milawa for those looking
river caving, micro lighting and gliding for a challenge. Bright is a major centre
in a sailplane over the High Plains. If for road cycling with the Tour of Bright
you’ve got the spirit of adventure but in December and the internationally-
no experience, there are guides and acclaimed Audax Classic in January.
instructors just waiting to get you going.
Held each February, the Bright
Bright and Ovens Valley 321 Paragliding Championship has
Bright has a host of tracks for walking, international status and is Australia’s
mountain biking and 4WD discovery. elite paragliding event. Microlighting is
There are some pretty riverside walks, extremely popular in Porepunkah and
including the heritage Canyon Walk along Mystic Hill attracts hang gliders and
the Ovens River and the walk along paragliders looking for an adrenaline rush.
Morses Creek to Wandiligong. Both are
easy, but if you’d like more of a challenge, The beautiful Ovens and Buckland rivers
there are many others that lead you to near Bright attract anglers looking to hook
vantage points where the views are trout and are also popular with canoeists
simply superb. and kayakers. Families with children
can have great fun tubing. Perhaps take
Try the Apex Lookout Walk with its views a scenic flight to gain a truly special
of Mount Feathertop, Mount Fainter and perspective of the region by flying over the
Mount Bogong. Off-road enthusiasts Ovens Valley and Kiewa Valley townships
will enjoy the Mount Porepunkah Circuit or the sights of the spectacular mountains
for views of the Alps and Mount Buffalo, including Mount Bogong, Mount Buffalo
the Wet Gully to Wandiligong Circuit with and Mount Feathertop.
views of the verdant valleys and the Snowy
Creek to Tawonga Gap Circuit, with great Mount Buffalo is one of Australia’s most
photo opportunities of Mount Bogong and famous adventure destinations, with
the Kiewa Valley. Or take a 4WD tour high mountain biking, abseiling, rock climbing,
into the mountains, where you can enjoy camping, walks and 4WD tours. Mount Opposite page: Awesome fishing in the Kiewa River.
an espresso coffee or glass of champagne Buffalo also beckons with hang gliding, Above (from top): Discover spectacular views on
foot; microlight over the alps and valleys; increase
and witness a unique and brilliant Alpine underground river caving, and canoeing on your adrenaline with a mountain-bike adventure
High Country sunset. Lake Catani. at Mount Beauty.
V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R Y 33ADVENTURE SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES
Mount Beauty and Kiewa Valley of June, and microlighting all year round.
ADENTURE MUST DO Mount Beauty is Victoria’s mountain bike Ever thought of soaring with the eagles
■ Camp overnight in an historic headquarters and home to the Big Hill above Victoria’s highest mountain, Mount
cattlemen’s hut Mountain Bike Park. It plays host to major Bogong, while taking in the spectacular
■ Explore the region in a 4WD races including the National Mountain views of the Kiewa Valley? Well consider
Bike Championships each year. There are joining the professional instructors in one
■ See the world from a tandem
microlight, hang glider or literally hundreds of trails to explore, from of their gliders launched from the Mount
paraglider novice to advanced, so grab a map from Beauty Airfield, allowing you to soar over
■ Get going on a mountain
the Alpine Discovery Centre and head for the High Plains and the wineries of the
bike adventure the hills. It’s pretty hard to beat the flying Kiewa Valley.
■ Take a challenging mountain walk
conditions for paragliding and hang gliding
in Victoria’s Alpine High Country, as our Angling is popular in the rivers and lakes
■ Witness a wonderful High
consistent sunshine warms the air and around Mount Beauty, Bogong Village and
Country sunset
produces the dependable thermals that Falls Creek, with the Kiewa River a hot fly-
■ Canoe on Lake Catani then walk
pilots need to stay aloft. fishing spot for locals and visitors, chasing
to the top of the Horn
the brown and rainbow trout. If horse
■ Go downhill fast at the Big Hill
The Bogong Cup Hang Gliding riding in the mountains sounds inviting,
Mountain Bike Park in Mount
Beauty Championship is Australia’s largest hang take the opportunity to go for a day trip, or
gliding event, held each January, attracting why not take a longer trek that combines
■ Ski or snowboard at one of the
awesome alpine resorts
■ Chase trout at a hot fly-fishing spot
competitors from around the world. If you
haven’t sampled extreme air sports yet,
there are plenty of local operators who can
great horses and natural splendour of the
Bogongs. Discover the true excitement
of Victoria’s Alpine High Country, an area
Freedom all year.
■ Go abseiling or caving at Mount
teach you how to hang glide or paraglide rich in cultural history, spectacular scenery
Buffalo National Park
in no time. Hang gliding and paragliding and a mountain playground for outdoor
season runs from September to the end enthusiasts and hardcore adventurers.
a destination with vision
As the seasons change so do the activities and events at Falls Creek.
Winter brings snow to Victoria’s largest resort where you can try downhill
Luxury self-contained apartments featuring stunning architecture. skiing and snowboarding, telemark and cross-country skiing as well as less
Ideally located, adjacent to some of the best mountain biking in Australia traditional alpine pursuits like snow tubing, snowmobiling and snow biking.
and only a short stroll to golf course, restaurants and more. Chill out in your own
balcony hot tub or get your adrenaline pumping from one of the region’s
Chimera_Svarmisk_ENVs.indd 1 25/7/05 2:12:16 PM
Throughout spring, summer and autumn, Falls Creek’s ski trails turn into
many thrill seeking activities.
walking and mountain bike tracks. Escape the heat and enjoy a picnic among
84 Bogong High Plains Road Mount Beauty VIC 3699
phone (03) 5754 4544 fax (03) 5754 4066 alpine wildflowers, cast a line from the shore of Rocky Valley Lake or venture For more information…
info@svarmisk.com.au www.svarmisk.com.au Mountain bike challenges abound throughout the Alpine High Country.
to Mt McKay, Victoria’s highest drivable peak, for the ultimate alpine sunset. Visit fallscreek.com.au
Visit Falls Creek for adventure, relaxation and spectacular scenery all year. or call 1800 2 FALLS
1800 232 557
34 V I C T O R I A’ S A L P I N E H I G H C O U N T R YFALLS CR EEK
From adrenaline
chasers to
honeymoon
makers, there’s
something
Where the fun never ends
for everyone
Falls Creek, a centre of choice for some of the world’s elite athletes,
also offers a family-friendly atmosphere for skiing enthusiasts.
F
alls Creek is a stunning year-round A Taste of Falls Creek is a popular food
destination. European workers on and wine event in January along with the
the Kiewa Hydro Electricity Scheme, Mile High Dragon Boat race in March.
who quickly realised the area was ideal
for skiing, created the resort. Norwegian In winter Falls Creek is a true ski-in/ski-
engineer Martin Romuld is widely out family-friendly village. It is the free-ride
recognised as a pioneer of Victorian skiing capital offering world-class terrain parks
during the 1930s. for kids, beginners, intermediates and
advanced skiers and snow-boarders.
In the 1950s during the development of
the Kiewa scheme, 30 kilometres of roads Host to Australia’s biggest cross-country
were built around Falls Creek to maintain event – the Kangaroo Hoppet – Falls Creek
the aqueducts. These roads are now has a massive cross-country trail network
wide paths that weave through the Alpine with up to 70 kilometres of trails groomed
National Park from the Falls Creek resort, daily throughout the season.
providing excellent cross-country bike
riding, walking and high-altitude training The position of the resort high in
runs for all levels. the Victorian Alps helps attract and
retain quality snow, while the massive
Falls Creek is fast becoming a high altitude snowmaking system and perfectly groomed
training centre for elite athletes from around slopes, thanks to the grooming gurus,
the world. The views from these trails are ensures the best possible snow base for
stunning and also provide an opportunity to your winter holiday.
visit the historic Wallace and Cope Huts.
For something a little different try a
Opposite page: A rest from the slopes at Falls
Featuring the highest significant body of snowmobile (ride your own with a guide)
Creek. Above (from top): Snow angel pleasure; water in Australia you’ll find outstanding or snowshoe tour, scenic helicopter flights,
summer provides endless vistas at Falls Creek. fly-fishing, kayaking and boating bungy trampoline, bocce in the snow, ride
opportunities in the Rocky Valley and under lights after dark in the Village Bowl,
Pretty Valley dams. steal first tracks in Sun Valley or visit one of
FALLS CREEK MUST DO the popular Pete the Snow Dragon shows
■ Take a walk around this A short drive from the resort is Mount with the kids.
European-designed alpine village McKay, the highest driveable mountain
■ Check out the Bogong Power in Victoria. Take a sunset tour and enjoy Off the piste you’ll find a vibrant dining
Station construction on your way gourmet picnics and sparkling wine, with scene with great restaurants, cafés and
■ Delight the kids with a Pete the uninterrupted 360-degree views across accommodation for all budgets and styles.
Snow Dragon Show the Bogong High Plains. For an adrenalin The Glo cinema offers movies daily. And
■ Explore Wallace’s Hut and Cope kick, the resort offers some wild and for relaxation and indulgence head to the
Hut in summer rocky mountain bike steeps. Try a game Endota Day Spa at Huski.
■ Take part in the international of mile-high tennis or simply grab a book,
cross country Kangaroo Hoppet a camera, a paintbrush or a rug and head From adrenaline chasers to honeymoon
each August out to Pretty Valley and relax among the makers, there’s something for everyone
snowgums and alpine wildflowers. at Falls Creek. Visit fallscreek.com.au
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