Great Alpine Road Trip

The Great Alpine Road Trip is an unforgettable experience that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Eastern Australia. Starting in Bairnsdale and ending in Wangaratta, this 202 mile journey takes you through the towns of Omeo, Bright and Beechworth. Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking views of the Australian Alps, snow-capped mountains, and rolling hills. Depending on the time of year, you may even spot some wildflowers blooming along the roadside. The road is in good condition, though there are some curvy and narrow sections, so be sure to drive carefully. It’s recommended to plan for at least two days to complete the journey, though the best time to make the trip is during the summer months. With its stunning scenery and moderate budget requirements, the Great Alpine Road Trip is an experience that's suitable for drivers of all levels.

Bairnsdale in Australia is the starting point for the Great Alpine Road Trip. It is the perfect jumping off point for a memorable journey through the picturesque Gippsland region. The town itself is bustling with activity and is home to a variety of attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages. Some of the most interesting sights in town include the Mitchell River National Park, the Bairnsdale Historical Museum, and the Bairnsdale Aquatic Centre. Travelling to Bairnsdale by air is easy, with the closest international airport being Melbourne Airport (MEL). From there, visitors can make their way to Bairnsdale by car, and car rental services are available at the airport. Once in Bairnsdale, visitors will find plenty of places to explore and enjoy, making it the perfect start to the Great Alpine Road Trip.

Are you looking for an exciting road trip from Bairnsdale to Omeo? Then you should definitely check out this 75 mi (120 km) route that takes less than two hours to drive. You will be amazed by the stunning views along the way. From the lush green hills of Gippsland to the picturesque snow-capped mountains of Omeo, you will be sure to enjoy every minute of your journey. First, you will be passing through the small towns of Bruthen and Ensay, where you can explore their historic sites and quaint country pubs. Then, you will be entering the beautiful Alpine National Park, where you can take a break to admire the magnificent views of the mountains and enjoy a picnic. After that, you can find the iconic Omeo Historic Park, where you can learn about the history of the region and take a stroll through the park. Finally, you will reach the charming town of Omeo, where you can explore its many attractions, including the Omeo Historical Museum and the Omeo Alpine Hotel. Whether you are looking for a leisurely drive or an active adventure, this route is perfect for everyone! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Omeo to Bright! The road trip is only 68 miles long and can be completed in less than two hours. Take in the spectacular views of the alpine region as you drive towards Bright. The steep ramps and winding roads make this a journey to remember. Enjoy the narrow roads with its curves and take a moment to admire the beauty of the alpine region. Make sure to be mindful of the scenic road and take it all in. There are plenty of great places to explore in both Omeo and Bright, so make sure to take your time to explore them. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy the road trip!

Embark on an adventure from Bright, Australia to Beechworth and enjoy all the scenic routes and exciting attractions along the way. Drive for 36 miles (fewer than 1 hour) and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. As you travel, pay attention to the historical sites and scenic roads for an even more enjoyable experience. Be prepared for the steep ramps and winding roads that you may encounter. Some sections may even be narrow, so make sure to drive carefully. Be sure to take some time to explore the natural beauty of Bright and Beechworth. As you pass through, you'll be able to explore the stunning Mt. Buffalo, the quaint Bright Brewery, and the historical Beechworth Gaol. Make sure to get the most out of your road trip and pick up some souvenirs along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy the ride!

Welcome, road-trippers! Let's take a journey from Beechworth to Wangaratta, Australia. With only about 23 miles and a driving time of less than an hour, this ride is short but packed with interesting sights. Start off your journey with a visit to Beechworth's historic sites, such as the Beechworth Gaol, the Old Courthouse, and the Chinese Joss House. Then, take a leisurely drive through the scenic roads while admiring the rolling hills and lush vegetation. Continue your journey to Wangaratta, where you can explore the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, St Patrick's Catholic Church, and the Wangaratta Information Centre. You'll also find plenty of shopping, dining, and even a local farmer's market. This is just one of the stops on your journey, so make sure to take it all in. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, and recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

The picturesque town of Wangaratta in Australia is the perfect end to the Great Alpine Road Trip. Located in the north-east of Victoria, the town offers plenty of attractions, activities and scenery to explore and enjoy. For the outdoor enthusiast, Wangaratta is home to the Wangaratta Botanic Gardens, a beautiful park with an abundance of native plants, trees and wildlife. The gardens are open all year round and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can take a stroll along the banks of the Ovens River or enjoy a spot of fishing at Lake Mokoan. There are also several outdoor activities to take part in, such as hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking. The town also has a vibrant cultural scene with an array of galleries, museums and performance venues. The Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre is a popular spot to catch a show or a live concert. There is also the Wangaratta Art Gallery, which showcases a range of local and international works. If you are looking for a more relaxed experience, Wangaratta is home to a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants. There is something for everyone, from fine dining to family-friendly eateries. For those traveling by air, the nearest international airport is Melbourne Airport (MEL). From there, it is a two-hour drive to Wangaratta. So why not come and explore the town of Wangaratta at the end of your Great Alpine Road Trip? You won't be disappointed.

Before you set off

The Great Alpine Road, officially known as the Great Alpine Road, is a magnificent 327-kilometer (203-mile) route that winds through Victoria's mountainous regions in Eastern Australia. This epic journey presents travelers with dramatic vistas ranging from the rugged Australian Alps to snow-covered peaks and verdant valleys. The road commences in Bairnsdale and concludes in Wangaratta, presenting a perfect opportunity for nature enthusiasts to dive into the diverse ecological and scenic splendors of the area.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Bairnsdale: The gateway to the Great Alpine Road, Bairnsdale is steeped in history with significant sites like St Mary's Catholic Church, noted for its impressive murals.
• Omeo: This charming town offers a glimpse into Australia's gold rush era with its historical buildings and the Oriental Claims Historic Area.
• Mount Hotham: Standing at 1,861 meters, it's a prime destination for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, offering panoramic views of the Victorian Alps.
• Bright: Renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, Bright is a hub for adventure sports like cycling, paragliding, and kayaking.
• Beechworth: This well-preserved gold rush town is famous for its connection to the bushranger Ned Kelly and offers a rich historical experience with its heritage buildings.
• Wangaratta: A vibrant regional center surrounded by vineyards, it's the terminus of the route and a gateway to the gourmet delights of the King Valley.

Best Time to Go:

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are excellent times to travel the Great Alpine Road, with mild weather and the natural spectacle of wildflowers blooming in spring and leaves changing colors in autumn. Summer (December to February) provides warm weather that is ideal for exploring the high country and participating in outdoor activities.

Potential Risks:

The Great Alpine Road features challenging driving conditions with steep inclines, sharp curves, and occasional narrow sections. As weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, travelers should remain vigilant and be prepared for sudden changes that could affect visibility and road safety.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Great Alpine Road is Australia's highest year-round accessible sealed road.
• This route traverses the Alpine National Park, Victoria's largest, which is home to unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Mountain Pygmy-possum.
• Historic townships along the way provide insights into the indigenous cultures, European settlement, and the Australian gold rush era.
• The road features several lookout points, such as Danny's Lookout and The Horn, offering spectacular views of the mountain ranges.

A good choice for:

The Great Alpine Road Trip is a journey that promises to enchant with its natural grandeur and historical charm. Whether seeking thrilling landscapes, exploring quaint towns, or indulging in local cuisine, this Road Trip stands out as an extraordinary exploration of Australia's high country.