Great Alpine Road

The Great Alpine Road runs about three hundred kilometres from Wangaratta on the northern plains, up the Ovens Valley through Bright and Harrietville, over Mount Hotham at around 1,840 metres, and down through Omeo to Bairnsdale and the Gippsland Lakes. It is the highest year-round sealed road in Australia, climbing from farmland and vineyards through tall mountain ash and snow gum forest to a ridge that runs above the treeline with drops on both sides. In winter the Hotham section requires wheel chains to be carried and the resort charges entry. Autumn colour in Bright and Harrietville, spring wildflowers on the tops and summer walking are the main draws.

What you actually see

• The Hotham ridge - the road running along a high alpine spine above the treeline.
• The Ovens Valley - vineyards, orchards and deciduous colour around Bright.
• The snow gums - twisted alpine trees, many still bearing fire scars.
• The descent to Omeo - the drop into high plains cattle country.

When to go

November to April for driving without snow gear; the alpine section is often snow-covered from June to September, when chains must be carried and resort entry fees apply. Autumn colour peaks in Bright in late April and May.

Honest expectations

The alpine section is winding, with long stretches of no phone coverage and fuel far apart. Fog and snow can close it at short notice. Fire has repeatedly burnt the snow gum forest along the route, and the damage is visible.

Nearby

Bright and Mount Buffalo lie on the northern side; the Gippsland Lakes at the southern end.