Last Updated: October 2026
When you think of Victoria’s High Country, snow-covered mountains and ski slopes probably come to mind. But this beautiful region has just as much to offer during the warmer months, especially if you love hiking, cycling and exploring the great outdoors.
Nestled at the foot of Mount Bogong, Victoria’s highest mountain at 1,986 metres, Mount Beauty certainly lives up to its name! Surrounded by spectacular alpine scenery, this charming little town is one of our favourite places in the High Country, and it’s only around four hours’ drive from Melbourne.
Although Mount Beauty is best known as the gateway to Falls Creek ski resort, summer brings a completely different experience. Think scenic walking trails, mountain biking, refreshing rock pools and picturesque alpine villages waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re planning an active getaway or simply want to enjoy the mountain scenery, here are our favourite things to do in and around Mount Beauty in summer.
Best Things to Do in Mt Beauty
Walk Around Mount Beauty Pondage
The 3 km walk around the pondage is a great way to experience the town’s spectacular alpine scenery. The reflections of the mountains and clouds over the pondage are just beautiful. It is a very easy walk that can be enjoyed by most people, or you can ride it if you prefer.
Hike the Mount Beauty Gorge Walk
This walk takes you along the aqueduct track to a swing bridge and over the West Kiewa River. As you follow the river, you will reach the canyon with some great views of the gorge. There is a swimming hole to be enjoyed at the end!
Note: During our walk, we came across a Red Belly Black snake and another group saw a brown snake on the same day. So it’s a good idea to look out for snakes along the way and to be careful where you step. Remember, they are more scared of us than we are of them but still, try not to tread on one!
Enjoy a Picnic by Mount Beauty Pondage
Enjoy a picnic with those views! You will want to hang around for a while, especially on a nice, sunny day. It’s such a lovely spot.
Take the Scenic Tawonga Gap Drive to Bright
The drive from Mt Beauty to Bright (or vice versa) takes you up and down a long, winding road with a couple of lookouts along the way. Make sure to stop at Mt Bogong Lookout and the Sullivans Lookout for some spectacular views of the Kiewa Valley and the imposing Mt Bogong.
Explore the Beautiful Alpine Town of Bright
The alpine town of Bright is surrounded by magical views of Mount Hotham and is split in two by the Ovens River. It is a very peaceful town, even when packed with summer crowds. Because of its proximity to Mount Beauty, you could also base yourself here and take day trips to Mount Beauty. Both towns are worth exploring.
If you visit in Autumn, you’re in for a treat due to the many deciduous trees whose leaves change colour around then. Many say that Autumn is the ultimate time to visit this part of Victoria.
Here are some of the best things to do in Bright:
Walk Bright’s Canyon Trail
The Canyon Trail is a historic track that follows the Ovens River downstream, crossing swing bridges and following a small canyon carved out by the river and some water races dug by early miners. Information placards along the Canyon Trail give you a good insight into the town’s gold mining past. The track is an easy 3 km return and will take you less than an hour to complete.
Enjoy a Craft Beer at Bright Brewery
Bright Brewery has become a local institution and is a fantastic spot to relax after a day exploring the High Country. Located beside the Ovens River, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a locally brewed craft beer while soaking up the mountain atmosphere.
On a sunny summer afternoon, there’s nothing better than grabbing a seat outdoors, enjoying the sound of the river and sampling one of their award-winning beers. It’s easy to see why this place is so popular with locals and visitors alike!
Cool Off in the Ovens River
During the warmer months, the Ovens River is a fabulous place for a refreshing swim. Next to the brewery, you’ll find a small water amusement park, springboards, slides, and water slides leading down into the river. It’s fabulous for both kids and adults who need to cool down! The banks of the river are also a great spot for picnics.
Discover Bright’s Cafés and Restaurants
There is no shortage of cafes in Bright serving fabulous food made from fresh, local produce. Food Wine Friends, the Riverdeck Kitchen, and Coral Lee are highly recommended.
Visit Bogong Village and Lake Guy
Bogong Village is 15 kilometres away from Mount Beauty and was originally built for workers on the Kiewa Hydro Electric Scheme. These days, it’s a peaceful place to kick back and relax with awe-inspiring views. You can take a walk around Lake Guy, go kayaking, swim, fish or simply sit by the lake with a picnic.
Discover Historic Harrietville
Harrietville is 20 minutes South of Bright and right at the foot of Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop. A gold mining settlement during the Victorian Gold Rush, this picturesque town is now an ideal all-seasons holiday destination. Autumn will bring you Harrietville at its best.
In Harrietville, you can walk along the river to the old Chinese settlement, visit the museum (closed during Covid) or visit the local trout farm.
Explore Falls Creek in Summer
Although Falls Creek is at its busiest during the ski season, the alpine scenery at the top is worth the detour even in summer. Some even cycle up there, but there was no way I was doing that! Falls Creek is set amongst the pristine environment of the Alpine National Park and has many more hiking trails that take you out into the wilderness of the high country. Just make sure to bring some layers, as it does get much colder at this altitude.
Best Time to Visit Mount Beauty
Mount Beauty is beautiful year-round, but November to April is ideal for hiking, cycling and exploring the High Country. Summer brings warm days, perfect for swimming in rivers and rock pools, while the higher alpine areas offer cooler temperatures and spectacular mountain scenery.
Autumn is another lovely time to visit, especially when the trees around nearby Bright turn beautiful shades of red, orange and gold. Winter is all about snow sports at Falls Creek, while spring brings wildflowers and lush green landscapes.
For outdoor adventures without the snow, we’d recommend visiting between late spring and early autumn.
How to Get to Mount Beauty and Get Around
Mount Beauty is approximately four hours’ drive from Melbourne and around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Albury-Wodonga. The drive through Victoria’s High Country is beautiful, particularly if you travel via Bright and Tawonga Gap.
Although public transport connections are available, having your own car is the best way to explore the area. Many of the attractions, including Falls Creek, Bogong Village and the surrounding hiking trails, are spread out.
How Many Days Do You Need in Mount Beauty?
We recommend spending at least two to three days in Mount Beauty to enjoy the town, tackle a few walking trails and explore nearby Bright and Falls Creek.
If you love hiking, cycling or scenic drives, four or five days would be even better. There’s plenty to keep outdoor lovers busy, and it’s a lovely place to slow down and enjoy the mountain scenery.
Where to stay in Mt Beauty
Mount Beauty makes a fantastic base for exploring Victoria’s High Country, with accommodation ranging from affordable motels to romantic mountain retreats. Although the lovely Airbnb we stayed in is no longer available, here are three alternatives worth considering.
Dreamers Spa Village – Best for a Romantic Getaway
If you’re looking for somewhere special, Dreamers Spa Village is a lovely option. Set among beautiful gardens with mountain views, it offers cosy studios and chalets, some with private spa baths. It’s ideal for couples wanting a peaceful retreat after a day of hiking or exploring the surrounding alpine villages.
Mount Beauty Motor Inn – Best for Location and Convenience
For something more affordable and central, Mount Beauty Motor Inn is a great choice. Its comfortable, recently renovated rooms are within easy walking distance of the town’s cafés, restaurants and shops. It’s a practical base if you plan to spend most of your days exploring the region.
Snowgum Motel – Best for an Affordable Summer Escape
Located in Tawonga South, Snowgum Motel offers comfortable accommodation with a swimming pool, perfect for cooling off after a summer hike. With spacious rooms, free parking and easy access to Mount Beauty’s attractions, it’s a convenient option for couples and families travelling on a budget.
Love exploring Victoria’s High Country? Why not extend your road trip to Rutherglen, one of Victoria’s most charming wine regions? With historic streets, beautiful vineyards and fantastic cellar doors, it’s the perfect place to swap hiking boots for a glass of wine! Discover our guide to Rutherglen for more inspiration.
FAQs About Visiting Mount Beauty
Is Mount Beauty Worth Visiting in Summer?
Absolutely! Although the region is famous for skiing, summer is a fantastic time to visit Mount Beauty. With beautiful mountain scenery, walking trails, cycling routes and refreshing swimming spots, there’s plenty to enjoy without the winter crowds.
Can You Swim in Mount Beauty?
Yes! Mount Beauty and the surrounding area have several places to cool off during summer, including the Kiewa River and Mount Beauty Gorge. Always check local conditions before swimming, particularly after heavy rain, as river currents and water levels can change quickly.
How Far Is Mount Beauty from Bright?
Mount Beauty is approximately 30 kilometres from Bright, around a 30-minute drive via Tawonga Gap Road. It’s a beautiful scenic route with fantastic mountain views, making Bright an easy day trip.
Can You Visit Falls Creek in Summer?
Yes, and it’s well worth the drive! Falls Creek is approximately 45 minutes from Mount Beauty and offers hiking, mountain biking and beautiful alpine scenery during the warmer months. You can also explore the Bogong High Plains without the snow.
Do You Need a Car in Mount Beauty?
We highly recommend having a car. Although Mount Beauty itself is small and easy to explore, you’ll need transport to reach many of the surrounding attractions, scenic lookouts and hiking trails.
Planning more adventures around Victoria? If you’re exploring the state from Melbourne, there’s plenty more to discover beyond the High Country! From spectacular coastal scenery to charming country towns and beautiful national parks, check out our best day trips from Melbourne for more inspiration for your next Victorian getaway.
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