Things to do in Bright

Pretty all year, but at its best in summer and early autumn to make the most of the river. Many people also stay in Bright in winter as a cheaper alternative to staying up Mt Hotham. You have to drive up and down the hill but can use the money you save by getting cheaper accommodation in Bright (instead of on-mountain) for dinner and drinks each night.

Swimming

There are plenty of spots to swim all along the river, a dedicated swimming area for adults and kids right in the centre of town & YOU ARE ALLOWED TO DRINK IN THE PARK NEXT TO THE RIVER!! Basically unheard of in Australia. Plenty of family and friend groups set up in the park to swim, picnic and enjoy a beer or wine in the sunshine.

The River j15 Streamside Reserve (google maps link) is an awesome tranquil little spot to picnic and swim (and should stay that way because not many people read this blog lol). Access is down an obscure gravel road to the east of the arboretum that is generally two-wheel drive when dry.

Bike Rides

Renowned as a destination for bike riders it has beginner flat tracks that go for km, mountain bike tracks and downhill bike riding with paid shuttles on weekends and school holidays. They have just completed a bitumen track that runs all the way from Bright to Harrietville along the river and roadside.

Bushwalks

Apex Lookout Walk

A really lovely little walk that works its way up the side of Apex Hill to the summit which has really nice views over Bright and mountain views. You can head up the Mount Porpunkah road from north side of bright and park off the road at the junction of Apex Lookout track. The walk leaves from here and is signposted.

---

4wd

Bright is a gateway to loads of high country 4wd options but there are a few 4wd tracks close to town. FFV has a pdf map here of the high country options.

Apex Lookout

You can drive up to Apex Lookout which does become steep and a bit narrow in few spots. At the time we made it up in my friends Suburu outback – it is marked 4wd only and there are steep drops so you need to go slow and be mindful of other cars.

Things to do near Bright

Mount Buffalo

One of Victoria’s most beautiful and unique national parks, Mt Buffalo is a great road trip from Bright or a destination for a weekend camping adventure. It also has a huge range of walks for most fitness levels from short waterfall walks to huge day hikes. Keep in mind in winter you need chains when there is snow.