High Country Life

Victoria’s High Country is a world of experiences, from wine-tasting to exhilarating hiking. With its awe-inspiring views, the region is a favourite weekend escape for those seeking to unwind in the mountains.

The High Country has a rich heritage of timber harvesting, farming and winemaking. It is also home to the iconic Tobacco Kiln and a variety of national parks.

1. Things to do

Myrtleford is a small, historic town nestled on the Great Alpine Road and is popular with locals and tourists alike. This vibrant region is home to artisan food makers, breweries, wineries, hiking and biking opportunities and so much more!

The best way to explore Myrtleford is on a bike. Choose from a fleet of hire bikes at the Myrtleford Cycle Centre. A friendly team member will help you select the best bike for your needs and fit it to you so you can get a comfortable ride.

For a more relaxed approach, take a walk around the town centre and explore the Discovery Trail. This re-purposed tobacco-growing and goldmining site will give you an insight into the area’s rich history. You can also take a stroll up Reform Hill for breathtaking views across the Ovens Valley to Mount Buffalo.

Another place to visit is Cafe Fez, a restaurant that has been a Myrtleford institution since it opened its doors in 2006. This family-friendly eatery combines Moroccan and Indian influences with modern Australian fusion dishes like Banh Mi, rice paper rolls and noodle salads. The menu changes regularly, but you can be sure to find something you’ll love!

Other places to visit while in Myrtleford include Lake Buffalo, a popular spot for water sports and fishing. This pristine lake is just 20 minutes south of Myrtleford and offers picnic areas and a swimming beach.

The quaint town of Porepunkah is a short drive to the south-east, and is popular with families due to its laid back nature and great parks and playgrounds. It also features a range of accommodation options including caravan and camping sites.

If you’re looking to do some snow-sporting during your holiday, you can head to one of the nearby ski fields such as Mt Buller, Falls Creek or Mount Hotham. You can also book a snow-travel tour with an experienced company.

2. Things to see

The small town of Myrtleford is situated along the Great Alpine Road in North East Victoria, a three hour drive from Melbourne. It is a hub of hops, timber and viticulture industries and is the perfect destination to explore the region on foot or by bicycle.

Its quaint charm, rivers and mountains will enchant you as you visit this historic village. Originally shaped by pioneer graziers and gold seekers, the town has evolved into a modern and thriving commercial centre.

There is plenty to see and do, whether you are looking to get outside and enjoy the sunshine or learn about the region’s rich heritage. A cycling or walking adventure is the ideal way to discover this thriving community, where you will find plenty of places to stop and enjoy a coffee or wine with friends.

For food lovers, the town has a diverse range of eateries from Moroccan-inspired Cafe Fez to the strong Italian influence of Bastoni Pizzeria. Add a cool climate wine from the region’s many wineries and you have an authentic meal that will leave your taste buds craving more.

If you’re into artisan produce, the Myrtleford Farmers Market is held on the 4th Saturday of each month in the town’s piazza. This is a great opportunity to sample local wares, meet the producers and attend cooking classes.

Myrtleford is a bike friendly town, and you can ride along the famous Mountain Rail Trail. It is a 100km fully sealed cycle path, with easy gradients and beautiful views.

The Ovens River Loop, a 5.6km trail is an ideal option for a leisurely walk or bike ride through the heart of Myrtleford. The path is located directly opposite Motel on Alpine, and offers a scenic route through the heart of the town.

3. Things to eat

Nestled in the beautiful Ovens Valley, Myrtleford is a charming town that thrives in its farming heritage. Originally a tobacco growing town, it has since transitioned to an agricultural hub that also produces wine grapes, walnut trees, hops and berries.

Foodies will find a range of restaurants to suit their taste. From Moroccan-inspired Cafe Fez to Indian influences in Café Chakra, the region is full of restaurants that offer a unique experience. Add in a cool climate wine from Michelini Wines or Gapsted Wines and you’re well on your way to an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Alternatively, you could try the delicious Vietnamese street food at Tu, a restaurant that specialises in traditional dishes made with local ingredients. It’s also a great option for vegetarians and vegans, with a number of options on the menu.

Other options include the rustic Italian eatery Bastoni Pizzeria or a fusion of Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine at Cafe Fez. Or for a more sophisticated taste of the region, take in the flavours at Red Ramia Trading and Cafe where they have a stunning collection of textiles from around the world.

There are also plenty of activities to do in the area, such as a cycle along the famous Rail Trail and exploring Lake Buffalo. The lake is a popular fishing spot and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Myrtleford.

Myrtleford is located 280km northeast of Melbourne and it’s easy to get there by car, bus or plane. It’s also close to Porepunkah, Bright and Mount Buffalo National Parks.

Myrtleford is an excellent base to explore the Alpine Shire and Victoria’s High Country. It’s also a great place to visit on a weekend break from Melbourne or regional NSW.

4. Things to stay

Myrtleford is a town with a lot to offer its visitors. The Victorian shire’s commercial centre is set against the backdrop of a dramatic mountain range and surrounded by a host of outdoor activities such as golf, tennis, bowls and bocce and a wide array of walking trails, swimming spots and BBQ and picnic facilities.

It’s also home to the awe-inspiring Reform Hill lookout which provides unparalleled views of Myrtleford and the surrounding region. The city is also the gateway to some of Victoria’s finest skiing and snowboarding at Falls Creek and Mount Hotham.

The town itself is a delight to explore, with its many historical buildings and artefacts lining the streets. A visit to the Myrtleford Visitor Information Centre is a must, and it’s an excellent base for a day of sight seeing and shopping.

Those looking for a little more space will love Arderns Caravan Park and Myrtleford Holiday Park which both feature an array of cabins and campsites, most of which are suitable for the whole family and offer some of the best value for money in the area. Getting here is easy by car, bus or train.

It is also a fantastic place to stay for an extended vacation or a weekend away from Melbourne, with several hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts to choose from in the central business district. The dining scene has been on the rise in recent years and a variety of restaurants offer some of the best food and wine around.

5. Things to do with kids

Myrtleford is a popular destination for families with plenty of things to do. The town is a gateway to the Alpine National Park, with ski resorts at Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. The surrounding Ovens Valley offers a variety of outdoor activities including river swimming and fishing.

The area is also home to several farms that are popular with kids. Check out Red Stag – Deer and Emu Farm, Bright Berry Farms, Pumpkin Seeds Australia and more. The quaint Lavender Hue Farm, Tea Room and Bed & Breakfast is also a favourite with locals, situated on the Ovens River in Harrietville and a great place to take the kids for a cuppa and some snacks.

If you’re looking to keep your kids entertained while exploring Myrtleford, consider taking a trip to the Farmer’s Market in town piazza on the 4th Saturday of every month. The produce stands are a great place to find local and artisanal foods like cheese, farmed trout, pumpkins and berries.

Another great activity is to hop on the Rail Trail, a fully sealed cycle path that runs along the old Wangaratta to Bright railway line. The 100km trail is suitable for all cyclists and offers a range of stunning vistas, wineries, farm gates and villages of the Ovens Valley to explore along the way.

There are also plenty of family friendly attractions to visit in the area, including SEA LIFE Melbourne and Eureka Tower in Melbourne and Collingwood Children’s Farm where kids can experience farm jobs. There’s also Collingwood Zoo, a great day out for kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for something a bit more active, cliffhanger climbing gym and winter magic ice skating are both fun family adventures to enjoy!