The High Country: Lofty Peaks, Wildflowers and Wineries

The north-eastern corner of Victoria is known as High Country. It is home to rugged mountains, spectacular forest, charming villages and fabulous food and wine. Visit in winter to immerse yourself in a snowy landscape, or at other times of the year to discover fields of wildflowers, wonderful wineries, lush forest and cascading waterfalls.

The Great Alpine Road is a driving route winding through spectacular mountain landscape, lush green valleys, farms, wineries and towering forest. It’s a 308km route that connects Wangaratta in the north to Bairnsdale in the Gippsland. Drive along for a few hours or take your time and spend days discovering the riches along this striking stretch of road.

Looking for snow? Be sure to head to the alpine resort of Mt Buller. Standing at 1804m, Mt Buller features a 2.5 km ski run and all the fine facilities you’d wish for after a day’s skiing. How about fabulous restaurants with spectacular views, bars with roaring fireplaces and luxury spas perfect for an indulgent massage? In warmer months the area is ideal for bushwalking, horse riding and bird watching.

Wine is part of Rutherglen’s very fabric. Fourth and fifth generation winemakers are infusing traditional techniques with a dash of contemporary flair to create wonderful reds, whites and fortified wines.  Be sure to join a winery tour and savour the taste for yourself. Or hop on a bike and onto the Muscat Trail. This cycle-friendly track will take you past lush paddocks, towering gums and secluded billabongs. Visit the ten wineries en route and sample some fine drops with the equally excellent local cheeses, mustards and fruit.

Bright is a colourful village that has a fondness for great food and wine. You might take a winery tour or simply sit back in a local café and watch the world go by. If you visit in autumn be prepared for a spectacular display of the town’s red and golden-hued deciduous trees.

Mansfield is a rural village of cute cafes and restaurants where you can sample the freshest of local produce. Drive through beautiful rural scenery to local wineries. Or head to nearby Craig's Hut, Power's Lookout or the Mount Buller summit for spectacular views of the region. Historically this was cattleman country so why not get into the spirit with a ride through this beautiful region?

When you’re feeling refreshed and up for a little more activity, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in nearby national parks including kayaking, river rafting and hiking.

The High Country is also the former home of Ned Kelly, Australia’s most notorious bushranger. The capture of Kelly and his gang in Glenrowan is part of Australian folklore, and you can learn all about it with a tour of the Siege Site Walk or a visit to the Kelly Museum and Kellyland. Glenrowan is also surrounded by fine food and wine producers. and it’s the perfect place to do some horse riding, cycling, bushwalking or even abseiling in beautiful natural surrounds.

Victoria’s High Country abounds in natural wonders. Immerse yourself in the beautiful forests, discover spectacular views from lofty peaks or drive through undulating green hills on a summer’s afternoon.

Whatever your mood, there’s something to enjoy in the beautiful High Country. So what are you waiting for?