Australia · High Country & Gippsland
Five verified stages across Victoria on the Great Alpine Road.
197 miles · 3-4 Days · 6 rally points
The route
This verified point-to-point journey follows the Great Alpine Road from Wangaratta through Bright, Mount Hotham, Omeo and Bruthen to Lakes Entrance.
The route crosses high alpine country before descending to Gippsland. Snow, ice, fire and road works can alter access, so VicTraffic and local park alerts are mandatory checks.
November to April normally offers the most reliable access. Carry warm layers at every time of year and use low gears on the extended descents.
“The Great Alpine Road is a complete crossing, not merely a climb to the summit.”
This complete edition includes the practical tools, considered places and editorial context listed below.
Buy this Drive Pack · $39The complete route, every rally point and sequential navigation links ready to open in Google Maps.
A day-by-day sequence with distances, driving time and the stops that shape the journey.
Surface notes, corner character, suggested departure windows and the stretches that demand attention.
A premium PDF edition of the complete Drive Pack, designed for print and reliable offline use.
Interactive and printable checks for the car, fuel, bookings, weather and offline navigation.
Official road-condition links and practical departure checks gathered in one place.
Curated accommodation, restaurants, wineries and worthwhile pauses matched to the route.
Relevant journal guides and deeper reads for the places, people and driving culture along the way.
Route map
The shaded area shows the landscape of the drive. Members receive the verified road, sequence and navigation.
Explore the route regionDay 1
Day 2 , Morning
Days 2–3 · Member Drive Pack
Day by day
01Day 1
The King Valley & Prosecco Road
Begin in Wangaratta and wind through the King Valley , Australia's prosecco capital. Stop at Brown Brothers, Pizzini Wines, and the Milawa Cheese Company before continuing to the alpine village of Bright, nestled in a valley of European trees. The journey begins in the heart of the King Valley, a region renowned for its Italian varietals and stunning pastoral landscapes.
Complete Drive Pack
The complete itinerary includes exact timings, road character, every stop and the downloadable roadbook.
Beyond the road
Places selected because they belong to the journey, not because they happened to be nearby.
King Valley
A cornerstone of the King Valley, Pizzini is a family-run winery that has championed Italian varietals in Australia. Their cellar door is a warm and welcoming space, offering tastings of their acclaimed prosecco, sangiovese, and nebbiolo. The on-site restaurant, run by the matriarch Katrina Pizzini, serves authentic Italian dishes that perfectly complement the wines. The cooking school is also a major draw, providing hands-on lessons in the art of Italian cuisine.
Milawa
Housed in a historic butter factory, the Milawa Cheese Company is a haven for cheese lovers. They produce a wide range of artisanal cheeses, from soft and creamy bries to pungent washed-rind varieties. The cafe offers a relaxed setting to enjoy a cheese platter, paired with local wines and freshly baked bread. It's a perfect spot for a casual lunch or to stock up on provisions for a picnic along the Great Alpine Road.
Bright
A modern and stylish addition to Bright's dining scene, Reed & Co combines a craft gin distillery with a sophisticated restaurant. The gins are made with a focus on local botanicals, and the tasting paddle is a great way to sample their range. The restaurant offers a contemporary menu that showcases the best of High Country produce, with many dishes cooked over a wood-fired grill. The atmosphere is chic and lively, making it a popular choice for dinner.
Omeo
A classic Australian country pub, the Omeo Hotel is a welcome sight after the dramatic descent from Mount Hotham. It's a historic establishment with a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. The menu features hearty pub classics, generous portions, and cold beer on tap. It's a great place to mingle with locals and get a feel for the history of this remote goldfields town.
Milawa
One of Australia's most iconic wineries, Brown Brothers has been producing wine in the King Valley for over 130 years. Their cellar door is a vast and impressive space, offering a wide range of wines to taste, from classic varietals to innovative new blends. The on-site restaurant, Patricia's Table, offers a fine dining experience with a focus on seasonal, local produce. The winery also has a beautiful garden, perfect for a post-tasting stroll.
Bright
A trendy and popular spot in Bright, Tomahawks is known for its creative, modern Australian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. The menu is designed for sharing, with a range of small and large plates that showcase local ingredients. The cocktail list is inventive, and the wine list features a good selection of local and international drops. It's a great place for a fun and flavorful dinner with friends.
Dinner Plain
Located in the heart of the picturesque Dinner Plain village, this hotel is a classic alpine pub with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. In winter, the open fireplace is a major draw, while in summer, the beer garden is the place to be. The menu features hearty pub fare, perfect for refueling after a day of hiking or skiing. It's a popular spot with both locals and visitors, and a great place to soak up the alpine ambiance.
Paynesville
A hatted restaurant in the heart of Paynesville, Sardine Eatery & Bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The menu is inspired by the Gippsland Lakes, with a focus on fresh, local seafood. The restaurant has a stylish and modern interior, with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The wine list is carefully curated, with a good selection of local and international wines.
Lindenow
A charming and rustic cafe in the small town of Lindenow, The Long Paddock is a hidden gem. The cafe is housed in a former bakery, and the original wood-fired oven is still in use. The menu features delicious and wholesome food, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The coffee is excellent, and the cakes and pastries are to die for.
Porepunkah
For a truly immersive vineyard experience, the accommodation at Feathertop Winery is unparalleled. The luxurious suites are nestled amongst the vines, offering breathtaking views of Mount Buffalo from private balconies. Each suite is beautifully appointed with modern furnishings, a king-sized bed, and a spacious bathroom. Guests can enjoy private wine tastings, explore the picturesque property, and dine at the on-site restaurant, which serves a menu inspired by the surrounding region. It"s a romantic and indulgent escape, perfect for a special occasion.
Omeo
Step back in time at The Golden Age Hotel, a beautifully restored goldfields-era hotel in the historic town of Omeo. The rooms are full of character, with period furnishings and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The on-site pub serves hearty country meals, and the friendly staff are full of local knowledge. It"s a unique and memorable place to stay, offering a glimpse into the region"s rich history.
Metung
The perfect way to end your Great Alpine Road adventure, The Metung Hot Springs is a luxurious lakeside resort on the Gippsland Lakes. The resort offers a range of accommodation options, from stylish hotel rooms to spacious villas. The highlight is the on-site hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters. The resort also has a day spa, a restaurant, and a range of water-based activities.
Milawa
Situated in the heart of the Milawa gourmet region, Lancemore Milawa is an elegant country house hotel surrounded by vineyards and beautiful gardens. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, with private balconies overlooking the vines. The hotel has a swimming pool, a tennis court, and an acclaimed restaurant, Merlot at Lancemore. It"s a sophisticated and relaxing base for exploring the King Valley.
Bright
A great option for families or those on a budget, the Big4 Bright Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation options, from powered sites for caravans to self-contained cabins. The park has excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, a water park, a playground, and a games room. It"s located on the banks of the Ovens River, and is just a short walk from the center of Bright.
Lakes Entrance
Located right on the waterfront in Lakes Entrance, this holiday park offers a variety of accommodation from cabins to caravan sites. It"s an ideal base for exploring the Gippsland Lakes, with easy access to fishing, boating, and the Ninety Mile Beach. The park features a swimming pool, playground, and BBQ facilities, making it perfect for families.
Before departure
Fill up in Bright before the mountain crossing. Fuel is available in Omeo but can be expensive. The next reliable fuel after Omeo is Bruthen or Bairnsdale.
Good in Bright and Bairnsdale. Limited to non-existent between Hotham and Omeo. Download offline maps and inform someone of your route.
Conditions change rapidly above 1,200m. Snow is possible from May to October. Summer temperatures can still drop sharply at the summit.
Bright is extremely popular during autumn (Mar to May) for its spectacular foliage and during ski season (Jun to Sep). Book accommodation well in advance for these periods.
Download offline maps for the entire route, especially for areas between Hotham and Omeo where cell service is limited. Google Maps or HERE WeGo are good options.
From the journal
Food & Wine
Food & Wine
Food & Wine
Food & WineContinue exploring
The complete journey
