Experience The Australian Outdoors as it best in Bright Victoria

At slightly over 1000 ft (300m) above sea level, the town of Bright, on the fringe of Victoria's fabled Snowy Mountains is the perfect destination for travelers. As a result of its height above sea level, those looking for escape from the summer heat find relief and those eager to get off the surrounding snowfields of Mt. Buffalo, Mt. Hotham and Falls Creek in the winter can stay in a Bright accommodation but still be within easy driving distance of the slopes.

A lot of of the locals in Bright and surrounding towns in the Ovens Valley argue that the perfect time of year to visit is in fall. Among the many great things about this region is that it is one part of Australia that really has four seasons and in the autumn months of April and May, the deciduous trees that grow in abundance in the region put on a magnificent display. You will discover few greater pleasures than taking a leisurely mountain bike ride through the wide, tree-lined streets of Bright in the Fall, stopping off for a picnic in Centenary Park on the banks of the Ovens River and ending the day off with a stroll through town and a peek inside the many wonderful shops along the Ireland Street loop.

Evidence of Bright's history is found all over in the town and throughout the township. The discovery of gold in 1853 led to a turbulent 50 years which ended when the mining and dredging finally ended. Although the gold dredging in particular led to violence and environmental degradation, 100 years of healing have led to restoration both of the environment and the local architecture. Today, only the best of those years remains in the shape of the many architectural restorations that pepper the area. Among the "don't miss" attractions of Bright are the old timber house from the 1850s, now the home of Gallery 90 as well as Park Street Courthouse, built in 1862. Also on Park Street is the old Presbyterian Church. Built in 1880, it has been beautifully restored and now houses St. Andrews Gallery.

As quiet as the tree-lined streets of Bright are, its location at the foot of the Snowy Mountains makes it an adventurer's paradise. Bright is the initial stop for legions of snowboarders and skiers in the winter and mountain bike riders, climbers, hikers and kayakers throughout the summer and fall. Mount Buffalo is a world famous spot for rock climbers and is especially popular over the hottest months of the year, when they can enjoy the cliffs without having to face the scorching heat of climbing spots at lower elevations. It is hard to miss the mile high cliff faces of Mt. Buffalo. They stand proudly atop the Mt. Buffalo plateau like sentinels. Climbers, hikers and those who just love being surrounded by nature call the nearby Lake Catani campgrounds their home away from home when traveling to Mt. Buffalo.

Bright, Victoria is found on the Great Alpine Road, just off the Hume Highway, the primary route between Sydney and Melbourne. It's an eight hour drive from either of these main Australian cities, but is well worth the drive. Once there, you will find a part of Australia you will want to return to again and again.

Take a few days off, find bright accommodation, things to do and other travel related information about the area on bookitnow.com.au. Or visit our Australia blog for more Australian holiday ideas.