We love a good road trip, and there’s one route in Victoria that’s particularly spectacular. Wind your way through diverse landscapes, from high mountain ranges all the way to the coastline, on the Great Alpine Road. Starting from Wangaratta, roughly three hours north-east of Melbourne, this road will take you on a picturesque journey, with valley views, alpine adventures, lush forests and more. The road ends in Metung, with dreamy lake and coastal views in East Gippsland. This trip is beautiful all year round, with snow in the winter and opportunities for hiking, camping and more in the summer.
The Great Alpine Road
The drive from Wangaratta to Metung takes about five hours, but if you’re someone who’s all about the journey, not the destination, it’s best to take your time to really appreciate this trip.
Wangaratta to Bright
Grab a coffee from the regional town of Wangaratta and kick off the road trip with some excellent produce. Venture into the gourmet region of Milawa for a bit of cheese at the Milawa Cheese Company, or find something to drink from the Brown Brothers Cellar Door.
Take a detour to the gold-mining town of Beechworth for a bit of history, craft beer and a bite to eat at the iconic Beechworth Bakery.
Or, keep on going into the Ovens Valley to Myrtleford for a taste of alpine wine. Take a detour to Mount Buffalo National Park for outdoor adventures. Hike up to The Horn for breath-taking views, search for waterfalls and look out for native wildlife. Or, keep going towards the beautiful town of Bright. Set on the banks of the Ovens River, this charming town has gorgeous mountain views, plenty of boutique shops, and of course, their famous trees, which are ablaze with hues of red, orange and yellow in autumn.
Bright to Omeo
Swap valley views for mountainous memories on the next leg of the Great Alpine Road. From Bright, keep going past the town of Harrietville, and upwards to Mt Hotham.
If you’re travelling in winter, stick around for some fun in the snow. With an elevation of 1861 metres, Mt Hotham is the highest alpine village in Victoria. It also has a massive 320 hectares of ski terrain, as well as restaurants and accommodation. During the snow season, you will need an entry permit if you wish to stop at the resort. Summer also has plenty to offer, with lots of walking tracks, picnic spots and wildflowers. Enjoy a bit of stargazing by spending the night in a luxurious dome.
Otherwise, keep going for 10km and make a stop at Dinner Plain. If you’re driving with your furry friend, this is the place to be, as Dinner Plain is the only alpine village that allows dogs. If all that driving has made you a bit stiff, loosen up with a dip in the onsen.
After enjoying your time on the mountain, descend down to the gold mining town of Omeo. Stop by Kosciuszko Lookout just outside of town, and take in views of stunning mountain peaks. If it’s a clear, sunny day, you’ll even be able to spot Mt Kosciuszko in New South Wales.
Omeo to Metung
After exploring the historic Omeo, continue your journey along the Great Alpine Road to other charming towns in Gippsland. Amble down the hill, past the towns of Swifts Creek and Ensay, and on through forests towards Bruthen. Stretch your legs with a walk along Tambo River, or grab a drink at the brewery.
Take a detour to Buchan and explore the iconic Buchan Caves, or keep going to the lovely town of Bairnsdale. There, you’ll find plenty of wonderful cafes and restaurants, as well as art and culture. If you’d like to stay in Gippsland longer, Bairnsdale is also a great base, as it’s a gateway town to the nearby lakes, and it’s also conveniently set between the Great Alpine Road and the Princes Highway.
Otherwise, drive 30 minutes away to Metung, the final stop on the Great Alpine Road. Explore the vast network of inland waterways, known as the Gippsland Lakes, which stretch over 600 square kilometres. After your journey through the mountains, spend some time by the water and take in lakeside views. For an extra bit of indulgence, soak in the geothermal waters at Metung Hot Springs.
Of course, depending on your needs, you can always make the trip in reverse, starting in Gippsland and ending in Wangaratta. Either way, spectacular sights are guaranteed.
Plan your trip in advance to figure out the best places to stop, bring some snow chains if you’re travelling in winter, and keep an eye out for road conditions here.