Cyclists · Skiers · Wine lovers · History enthusiasts
Autumn (April–May) for spectacular colour and harvest season. Winter (June–September) for skiing at Falls Creek, Hotham, and Mount Buller. Summer for cycling the iconic High Country Rail Trail.
Victoria's High Country encompasses the alpine resorts, gold rush towns, and wine regions of north-east Victoria. From the ski slopes of Falls Creek and Mount Hotham to the cycling trails through the Ovens and King Valleys, the High Country is one of Victoria's most diverse and rewarding regions for weekend travel.
Why High Country makes a perfect Melbourne weekend getaway
The Victorian High Country stretches from the rolling hills around Mansfield and Eildon northward through the alpine zone and down into the wine valleys of King and Ovens. The region is home to two of Australia's finest ski resorts — Falls Creek and Mount Hotham — both of which transform into outstanding summer destinations for hiking, mountain biking, and wildflower walks when the snow melts.
The High Country Rail Trail is one of Australia's most celebrated cycling routes — 116 kilometres of converted railway running through the heart of the region from Wangaratta through Beechworth, Myrtleford, Bright, and up to Wodonga. The trail is almost entirely flat, extremely well-maintained, and passes through some of the most beautiful farming and wine country in Victoria.
The wine regions of King Valley and the Ovens Valley produce exceptional cool-climate varieties. The King Valley in particular is home to Australia's finest prosecco producers — Dal Zotto, Pizzini, and Brown Brothers — and has developed a distinctive Italian-influenced food and wine culture that reflects the region's Italian immigrant heritage from the 19th century.
Top things to do in High Country
Falls Creek ski resort
Victoria's most snow-sure alpine village, with excellent beginner and intermediate terrain and a unique village atmosphere built around ski-in/ski-out accommodation. Transfers available from Melbourne.
Beechworth
One of Victoria's finest gold rush heritage towns, with a perfectly preserved main street, the famous Beechworth Bakery, a renowned honey experience, and excellent cafés and galleries.
King Valley prosecco trail
Australia's home of prosecco, with the Dal Zotto, Pizzini, and Brown Brothers cellar doors set in beautiful valley scenery. The Prosecco Road self-drive trail takes 2–3 hours to complete.
High Country Rail Trail cycling
Australia's most popular rail trail, running 116km through magnificent alpine scenery. The Myrtleford to Bright section (40km, mostly downhill) is the most scenic and suitable for all fitness levels.
Lake Eildon
A massive artificial lake at the headwaters of the Goulburn River, popular for houseboating, water-skiing, fishing, and camping. The surrounding national park offers excellent bush camping and wildlife.
Mansfield & Man from Snowy River country
The gateway town to Mount Buller and the high country cattlemen's heritage, with excellent trail rides, good cafés, and the High Country Visitor Centre.
Practical tips for your High Country trip
- The High Country is an ideal 3-day trip rather than 2 — the distances between attractions are significant.
- Book accommodation in alpine villages for winter in advance — school holiday periods book out completely months ahead.
- The Great Alpine Road connecting Bright, Hotham, and Omeo is one of Australia's finest driving routes — allow a full day.
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