The Great Alpine 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. As you wind through the verdant vineyards, you'll encounter charming cellar doors offering tastings of prosecco, sangiovese, and nebbiolo. The air is fresh, and the scenery is a delightful blend of rolling hills and distant mountains. A stop at Brown Brothers or Pizzini Wines is highly recommended to sample their exquisite offerings and perhaps pick up a bottle or two. The Milawa Cheese Company provides a perfect interlude with its artisanal cheeses, a true taste of local produce. The road then gently leads you towards Bright, a picturesque alpine village nestled amidst European trees, offering a serene end to the day's drive. The transition from the sun-drenched vineyards to the cooler, tree-lined avenues of Bright is a sensory delight, preparing you for the adventures of the high country.

The climb from Bright to Mount Hotham is the centrepiece of the route. The road ascends 1,500 metres through dense eucalyptus forest, emerging above the tree line into alpine meadows. The final approach features a series of dramatic hairpin bends with views across the Victorian Alps. This segment is the dramatic ascent into the heart of the Victorian Alps. The road climbs relentlessly, winding through dense eucalyptus forests that gradually give way to the stark beauty of the alpine zone. Hairpin bends challenge and thrill, offering increasingly spectacular views with every turn. As you emerge above the tree line, the landscape transforms into expansive alpine meadows, dotted with hardy snow gums. The air becomes crisper, and the sense of elevation is palpable. The final approach to Mount Hotham summit, at 1,861 metres, is a series of breathtaking vistas across the rugged peaks and valleys of the Australian Alps. This is a truly exhilarating drive, demanding attention but rewarding with unparalleled natural beauty and a profound sense of achievement.