Turning of the leaves in autumn
Fresh air, burnt-orange leaves, sweeping plains, and rugged mountainous backdrops. Travelling through Victoria’s High Country in autumn is magical. As the trees turn stunning colours in anticipation of the coming cooler months it is a perfect time to visit.
This region is one of the state’s gems and lesser known by international visitors, but certainly one to add to the list. There is a wealth of things to see, do and eat, and what better way to explore this section of Victoria than on a private tour? If time permits take two or more days and really make the most of what is on offer in this pocket of the country.
As you make your way up the Hume Highway from Melbourne, stop in at the town of Glenrowan and learn about the infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly. There’s a statue of him in the centre of town – you can’t miss it.
The fertile soil of King Valley means crops are plentiful. The area was once planted with tobacco farms for many years by Italian, Yugoslav and Spanish migrants who settled here after World War II. Tobacco eventually became outlawed and the farms are now producing grapes on its numerous vineyards. Sip on a glass of wine overlooking the golden vines, or you may like to delve deeper and meet a wine maker who will show you the tricks of the trade as you learn about the produce, processes and equipment used, resulting in a perfect drop.
Perfect for a picnic
In the surrounding towns, such as Milawa, you will find small providores showcasing their delicious produce; cheese, mustard, nuts and olives, just to name a few. Stock up on some goodies during your travels to create your own picnic later in the day.
The historic town of Beechworth is a must-visit. Once a goldminer’s delight in the 1800s is now a stunning town for a pitstop or an overnight stay. Not only is the local honey delectable, the bakery has all sorts of sweet and savoury treats, and the Beechworth Sweet Co is a sweet tooth’s dream. However, it is not all about food – the architecturally beautiful town is also surrounded by wonderful nature spots ready to be explored.
Sit by the Ovens River in the centre of Bright with your small feast enjoying the tranquil sounds of the water flowing past.
Wind down at the end of your day with a refreshing beer at the Victoria Tourism Award-winning Bright Brewery. Located in the heart of town, backing on to bushland it’s the perfect setting to relax with a pint, a tasting paddle, or even their recently revealed ‘mystery beer’!
Breathe in the fresh air and take in the views
The nearby alpine resorts, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek, are extremely popular during Victoria’s winter snow season but in the warmer months provides visitors abundant hiking trails with a variety of distances and gradients, and with breathtaking views.
For something a little cruisier, pick up a bike and go for a ride. Feel the fresh breeze on your face as you cycle around towns, past farmland and through bushland. The rail trail is easy riding and suitable for the whole family. However, if you are after more of an adrenaline rush then mountain biking might be the thing for you. The region has plenty of mountain bike parks for a variety of ability levels, but you may need to stop part way down to take in the spectacular scenery.
Whether you are after a relaxed journey or something faster paced, anything can be done on a private basis to guarantee you have the best possible experience in Victoria’s high country.
Want to know some of our favourite places to visit?
King Valley Wineries
Produce
Activities