Explore this rugged stretch of backcountry — any time of year.

Only in Victoria's High Country

Eleanor Scott
April 19, 2021

One moment you could be sipping sparkling with King Valley's prosecco pioneers. The next, you could be exploring mountainous peaks on horseback.

That is what one day could be like in Victoria’s High Country. And the next day won’t be any less exciting. Sure, it might be synonymous with snow-filled adventures, but there is so much more to this rugged stretch of countryside that makes it worth a visit.

From cellar doors and high-flying diners to art galleries and hot air balloon adventures, this pocket of regional Victoria boasts activities aplenty — for every type of traveller. So, whether you’re after adrenaline-fuelled kayaking trips or wanting to brush up your knowledge on the local history — Ned Kelly, gold mining, Indigenous sites and all — you’ll find it here.

WHEN TO GO

The High Country is a place you can visit any time of year — it just depends on what kind of trip you’re planning. Summer sees the mountains covered in wildflowers and it’s an ideal time to kick back with a few wines at one of the region’s many vineyards. Milder temperatures in spring and autumn offer the perfect environment for outdoor adventures. And, when the mercury drops in winter, snow blankets the peaks, making it a go-to holiday destination for skiers and snowboarders.

GETTING THERE

While there are a few regional airports dotted around, the best way to get to — and get around — Victoria’s High Country is by car. Jump on the National Highway (M31) and you’ll reach the region in just under three hours. If you’re as much about the journey as you are the destination, go on one of the scenic routes that take you through small towns and past impressive mountain ranges, rolling vineyards and mighty rivers. Once you’re there, the Great Alpine Road is a must for those wanting to make a few interesting stops in between more popular towns.

SPENDING MONEY

Trips to the north east can go either way on the wallet. If you’re on a strict budget, an outdoorsy trip is your best bet thanks to the many hikes and reasonably priced outdoor activities on offer. Plus, there are quite a few free and well-priced campgrounds around for those keen to rough it. Once you start forking out for guided adventure tours, fine dining dinners, snow sports, picnics on the side of cliffs and luxe accommodation, the bills start to stack up quite quickly. So, it’s worth doing your research before hitting the road.

DON’T MISS

No trip to the High Country would be complete without stopping into a few wineries and cellar doors. A Taste of Wine Tours is a good option if you’d rather be shown the ropes than create your own itinerary. Sunrise hot air ballooning over King Valley is another must-do at least once, followed by a prosecco brunch at Brown Brothers Winery. If you’re more into beer, be sure to visit one of Australia’s earliest breweries, Billson’s, located in Beechworth.

CHOOSE YOUR PERFECT ITINERARY

So much to do and so little time — it’s always the way when you’re on holidays. Let us help you fine-tune your itinerary of eating, drinking and adventuring and ensure not one moment of your precious annual leave is wasted.

Our food and drink guide has eight top-notch ways to wine and dine your way around the area, while our outdoor guide will have you exploring the region from all different angles (including soaring way above it). And for the less intrepid, our arts and culture guide highlights some of the local art galleries, historical tours and impressive museums to visit. Mix and match from the below to create your perfect itinerary for one memorable trip in Victoria’s High Country.

FOOD AND DRINK

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

ARTS & CULTURE

Kilnhouse

WHERE TO STAY

Start things off in style by sleeping in the Provençal-style tower at Mount Ophir Estate in the heart of Rutherglen winemaking country. If you’re after self-contained accommodation, 3 Black Sheds in King Valley is the perfect combination of location, luxury and looks — think chic warehouse vibes, wide verandahs overlooking the countryside and the region’s top prosecco makers just a stone’s throw away. Otherwise, Hotel Granya Farmstay, located right on the banks of Lake Hume, is also a good shout for a group getaway, and it’s hard to go past the three luxury Kilnhouses on a working angus cattle stud in Ovens Valley. For more down-to-earth vibes (but still a little bit luxe), check out Mansfield Glamping where you can sleep under the stars, but in the comfort of a canvas bell tent and a plush queen bed.

FIVE MUST-HAVE EXPERIENCES

You now know where to eat, drink, adventure and sleep, but for even more excellent experiences, swipe through the top picks below.

Take it all in from The Peak

The local breweries, taprooms and distilleries alone are worth a visit to the High Country, especially for anyone who loves a couple of coldies. The four-day High Country Brewery Trail highlights some of the most notable brew houses in the alpine area. Starting at King Valley’s King River Brewery, you’ll cross rivers and mountains during a beer odyssey that ends in Bright. And rest assured, Bright Brewery's sunny beer garden, perched right by the Ovens River, makes for a mighty fine finish line.
Cycle between top vineyards and restaurants on the Milawa Gourmet Ride

All you need is a map and a trusty two-wheeled steed for this ten-kilometre ride. Start things off with a tour around Milawa town before popping into cellar doors, boutique food stores, farms and eateries along the cruisey ride to Miranda Winery in Oxley. If you don’t have your own bike, you can easily rent one in town. And a picnic basket of goodies to nibble on during your pedal is optional, but recommended.
Cross rugged countryside with Watsons Mountain Country Trail Rides

Discover the vast landscapes of Victoria’s High Country the old fashioned way: on a horse. Michael and Sally Watson offer guided tours that will have you acting out scenes from The Man from Snowy River in no time. If you're after a short trot, opt for a one-, two- or three-hour trip. Keen for a full-blown adventure? Watsons Mountain Country Trail Rides' multi-day trips range from two to seven days — come rain, hail, snow or shine.
Live a day in the fast lane on a Luxe Auto Wine Tasting Tour

Roaring into town in the back of a 1973 Rolls Royce Corniche convertible is one way to sip your way around Rutherglen's wine region — and why not? You'll have a knowledgeable host at the helm talking you through the area's 160-year-old history and you'll taste wine at several top wineries. You’ll learn hidden secrets, look at some of the town's historic architecture and find out the stories behind things like James Halliday’s five-star wineries.
Have a fine dining feast at Chrismont

Picture this: you're indulging in a long Italian lunch on a sunny terrace while looking out at mountains and rolling vineyards. Yep, it sounds pretty dreamy — and you can do just that at Chrismont. Owned by the Pizzini family, who have run the place for decades, the winery is known for producing one of the driest proseccos in King Valley. At the on-site fine diner, you can expect an ever-changing seasonal menu that nods to the family’s Italian heritage.