Overview
There's no better way to brush off the many months spent at home than with a trip to Victoria's High Country. While you might think the state's alpine peaks are only worth a visit during winter, we're here to tell you that there are adventure activities, cultural experiences and all-round summertime beauty to be found when the weather is warm.
This is particularly true of Falls Creek — so plan a summer trip and discover a different side to the popular winter destination. And with plush accommodation in the alpine village and beyond, there's no need to rush these excellent warm weather experiences.
Victoria's High Country
EXPLORE THE DEPTHS — AND HEIGHTS — OF ROCKY VALLEY LAKE
Australia's mountainous regions are home to numerous alpine reservoirs, but few are as impressive as Rocky Valley Lake. At 1600 metres above sea level, this aquatic wonderland is the highest significant body of water in Australia, and can be easily explored thanks to a great variety of activities, including fishing, swimming, kayaking and more.
While it's just a 10-minute drive from Falls Creek Village or the Pretty Valley campground, carting your own kayak or boat to the lake isn't required. Just see the team at Peak Adventure to rent kayaks and paddleboards for all your on-water needs. Plus, the company also hosts guided tours and private lessons, so you can get an inside perspective on this striking part of the world.
Victoria's High Country
VISIT HISTORIC CATTLEMEN'S HUTS
Victoria's High Country has a long and storied past when it comes to cattlemen. Following the landmark Hume and Hovell expedition of 1824, these rugged landscapes became some of the country's prime pastoral terrain. Today, visitors to Falls Creek can still explore the historic cattlemen's huts that sheltered livestock farmers from the harsh conditions.
These huts date back to the 1860s, with each one linked to a fascinating tale. To make the experience even more unique, head out on an e-bike tour with Falls Creek Guides and set your sights on existing monuments such as Wallace's Hut (pictured above) and Cope Hut.
Lauren Bath
CHASE WATERFALLS
Falls Creek's alpine location helps keep the temperature more bearable than the sweltering city, even on the hottest of summer days. To keep you even more refreshed, head to one of the area's several highland waterfalls that provide the perfect spot to keep cool.
Fainter Falls is the most renowned in the region, situated just a short trip from Bogong Village. As you complete the easygoing trek through dense ferns, superb views stretch along the Kiewa River and its majestic falls. If you're in the mood for more sightseeing, the nearby Falls Creek Falls is also worth a visit.
Victoria's High Country
GO MOUNTAIN BIKING
The snow might have melted away, but you can still get your downhill thrills by completing some of the mountain bike trails surrounding Falls Creek. If you consider yourself quite adept on two wheels, the Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park features 40 kilometres of top-notch gravity trails that highlight some incredible vistas.
For a trip that'll test the heart rate and provide views of remarkable natural beauty, the Cope Hut Return loop is a breezy ride that takes travellers to some of the region's most scenic and historic spots. Meanwhile, the world-class Fainter Trail features a myriad of challenging obstacles en route from Falls Creek to Mount Beauty's township.
Victoria's High Country
HAVE A MEAL AT THE FRYING PAN INN
Situated in Falls' Village Bowl, the Frying Pan Inn was one of the first eateries in the area when it was established in 1965. Having undergone several evolutions over its years as a bustling après-ski favourite, this spot is just as popular during summer thanks to a woodfired menu featuring sustainably sourced ingredients.
There's a great selection of tasty burgers, ranging from soft-shell crab to miso-glazed vegan options. Plus, delectable barbecue dishes, including pork ribs, lamb shoulder and scotch fillet, make for a hearty American-style lunch. Alongside a seasonally rotating menu of local craft beers on tap, a meal at the Frying Pan Inn never disappoints.
UNWIND IN STYLE AT DIANA ALPINE LODGE
Set within Falls Creek Alpine Village, Diana Alpine Lodge is the ideal base for your holiday if you're exploring the region with pals. You can also relax in the cosy lounge with an ice-cold drink from the bar or crank up the barbecue on the balcony and take in sprawling mountain views.
Heading to Falls Creek with your mountain bike? You can lock it securely inside the lodge's bike storage facility. Plus, bike wash facilities will no doubt be much appreciated if you're planning to conquer the area's epic trails.
For more information on things to see and do at Falls Creek this summer, head to the Victoria's High Country website.
Top image: Victoria's High Country