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Weekenders Guide To Victoria's High Country

From its majestic mountain peaks to its verdant valleys, Victoria's High Country is a genuine wonder to discover.

Placed before us is a culinary artwork. Rich figs in a bruised purple hue, quince jelly the colour of overripe raspberries, cheese as white as the milk it was created from, alongside a sparkling Sangiovese Shiraz of deep, shimmering burgundy. The creator here in King Valley shares the stories at hand: the figs had come from the tree just branching out behind, the quince jelly was made with local quinces and the cheese was bought from down the road in Milawa, along with mustard and bread. The herbs, berries and vegetables are grown on this land.

Sitting in the dappled shade of a grandfather plane tree, with roots that sink as far beneath as they do above, there is a moment to revel in all this landscape brings. The Victorian High Country is a place where the seasons and connection to community and nature reign. Mother Earth drives each distinct change of conditions: it's what guides growing, harvesting, life. Stretched out before us at Gracebrook Vineyards in the King Valley are rows and rows of vines, fanning out like the ripple of a wave. Beyond that, the silhouette of mountains: behind are the Warby Ranges, in front Mount Buffalo, and beyond there are vistas all around.

Once into the valley, it is easy to pass little gems by, as most are hidden off the main road, down winding dirt tracks. Let's wander a little, and linger as we will.

EXPLORING BEECHWORTH, MILAWA, KING VALLEY'S PROSECCO ROAD, AND MORE

Driving along the Tambo River, Great Alpine Road (Credit: Visit Victoria)

The well-preserved gold rush town of Beechworth is still draped in a figment of golden hues, and makes an excellent base for High Country explorations. Grab a jar of Beechworth Honey and a coffee from Little Nev's transformed horse float before following the curving bends past the gorge, venturing to Glenbosch Wine Estate, perched on a small hill on the edge of town with views in all directions. Indulge in a wine tasting at the cellar door and enjoy the degustation option, matched with wines at the restaurant should you want the full experience of it all. Here there are farm stay cottages on site, so you can indulge to your heart's content.

Not far down the road you'll arrive in Milawa, a region synonymous with wine and gourmet food offerings: worth a stop even just to purchase a jar of iconic Milawa Mustard, or to pack your hamper with goods from Milawa Cheese Factory. Here also is the home of Brown Brothers Vineyard, ideal for a long luncheon affair. Enjoy their highly popular Prosecco and Patricia range with a side of house-cured cheese, or dive right in for a full set menu with matching wine if you please. Lounge out on the grass, or explore the family playground.

Sam Miranda makes more than just great Prosecco.

The goods at Milawa Cheese Company (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Further down the track as you pass an avenue of trees you'll arrive at the King River Café, a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy coffee and cake, or stay longer and have a restaurant meal. After that, the Valley of Kings awaits. It was in 1939 that Francesco Miranda first produced a vintage of Miranda Wines at Oxley, at the beginning of the King Valley. More vines started their growth journey and generational ties. Today, Sam Miranda and the fourth generation carries on the craft - look out for the 40-foot light tower that marks its place.

Out here in King Valley, you surrender to the elements, the trees hugging the side of the road, the man-made vines, a tapestry of branches hinting at more promise held below the soil. The region is heavily influenced by its Italian heritage, with many immigrants coming to the area after the Second World War bringing a penchant for grape agriculture and a deep respect for community. Paddocks dotted with sheep and cows spill through the land. Deeper into the valley you will find the Mountain View Hotel, which has a warm, relaxed atmosphere and excellent pub fare. Hobbledehoy Cafe Distillery is also worth visiting.

Brown Brothers is a great spotfor a bite (Credit: Visit Victoria)

A delectable dining experience awaits at Chrismont (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Continue to neighbouring Chrismont Wines, and reserve time for a bespoke experience. Walking through the large wooden door, the glasses hung behind the counter glisten like chandeliers, the rock fireplace reminiscent of the granite you find around these parts, buried and jutting out of the land. Begin with the Prosecco and then dive into a full meal, matching food with wine and a range of sides. The handmade tagliatelle melts like butter in the mouth, tossed with scallops, prawns and mussels in a truffle cream sauce.

The barramundi and house-made potato gnocchi are just as good, with fresh flavours singing their tune. It is enough to express a 'Bellissimo' and place your fingers together in a chef 's kiss. The Pinot Gris and Chardonnay come with luscious texture and fruit notes that hit gently on the palate, pairing well with the colourful salad, picked fresh. Chrismont also has a guest house, with high-end studios available by year's end, coming with your choice of food packages inclusive.

Nearby, Red Feet Winery and Cellar Door do a great collection of whites, as does Dal Zotto, who proffer fine Prosecco and a variety of reds. Darling Estate Wines is now run by John Darling's two daughters - out here, it is truly a family affair. The Darling family, for example, have lived and worked in the valley for over 100 years. The vineyard is on red volcanic soil. With each winery, there is something to discover: you could spend a whole week visiting wineries in this patch of land. Pizzini Wines, another fixture of King Valley, has zingy, crispy Prosecco, Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese.

Pizzini Wines are a true mainstay of the legendary Prosecco Road (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Jo Pizzini, alongside her husband Arnie, talks about their appreciation for delicious flavours, fresh produce and "a range of wines from French, German styles that the area has been producing for many years, many years, to the Mediterranean theme that we are getting to know quite well Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, Barbera, the first Italian-themed wines have started and now we have got Aglianico, we've got Nero d'Avola, Fiano." "We are lucky out here. We are," says Arnie as he looks around. After all the toil, no wonder they celebrate the wine. "It's been a great journey, and when you look back, what I love about it is the people that we meet along the way," says Jo. "People from all walks of life. Lots of friendships have been formed and we are so grateful from all the surrounding towns and the support we get from all the local people... We are blessed. So blessed."

Make sure to continue on to Lake William Hovell Dam. Here you can picnic, walk, breathe in the fresh air. Some kayak, float on lilos, dip their toes in, boat or swim. When out in the middle of the lake, where the depths grow cold, you become enveloped in the dark shiny water, resembling something akin to maple syrup, with the sun glimmering as it hits the surface. Surrounding you is a sense of sheer bigness: of mountains, and skies above. Peace and a whisper of spirituality can be found here, if you simply be still and let it in.

EXPLORING BRIGHT, MOUNT BUFFALO, AND GLENROWAN'S BUSHRANGER COUNTRY

Victoria's High Country is a mountain bikers paradise (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Heading out in the other direction from Beechworth, pull into Gapsted Wines, located on the Great Alpine Road. With picturesque views and locally sourced produce there are too many reasons not to stop here. Avid cyclers are well catered for, with the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail snaking from Beechworth, through the region, to Porepunkah and Bright.

Don't miss Myrtleford for a coffee or falafel at Café Fez, which is part of the wider Red Ramia establishment. You'll also find a mini Billy Button Cellar door to taste and try: a bigger location can be found in Bright. Michelini Wines are located here, while Ringer Reef Winery lies on the outskirts of Porepunkah. A windy dirt road takes you up to a grassy expanse with uninterrupted views over Mount Buffalo. Take a picnic basket and soak them in - your soul will thank you for it.

Onwards then to beautiful Bright, where the old streetscape and timeless river invite you to experience things with a relaxed meander. Enjoy a casual meal at Elm Dining or the Bright Brewery, overlooking the park, playground and river. Up along the streetscape, you will find a charming little bookshop and favourite local haunt, The Bright Ice Creamery. For a nature-filled delight, head to 5 Acres in Wandiligong, about ten minutes out of Bright. Set in luscious garden surroundings, food miraculously appears while you are free to sit back, relax, and graze while you gaze.

Of course, no trip to High Country is complete without dipping one's toes into bushranger legends by visiting Glenrowan. Ned Kelly's showdown here is something of folklore, capturing a feeling of the gold rush years in North-East Victoria. The Ned Kelly homestead shines a light on what such times were like. Here youÕll also find historic Baileys and Taminick Cellars: in days gone by you could take your flagon and fill up your red wine. Websters Estate is well worth a visit also, another regional nugget to treasure.

THE BEST FRESH PRODUCE AND PUBS OF VICTORIA'S HIGH COUNTRY

Make sure to pick up a jar of the iconic Beechworth Honey while you're in High Country (Credit: Visit
Victoria)

Back at base, pick your own berries at Beechworth Berries, on the outskirts of town. You will find strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, depending on the time ofyear, alongside jams, sauces and chutneys that will tide you over in the colder months. A little drive away, take a dive deeper into the valley and head to Happy Baker for delicious breads and pastries that people travel to Yackandandah to savour. Yack seems distilled in time, yet it is not far off the track. Speaking of distilled, Backwoods Distillery is next door. Yack Creek Distillery is also just down the road.

Heading back through Beechworth and up towards Stanley on the other side of the town is the Stanley Pub. The pub has undergone a recent revamp, with stylish furniture and a refreshed menu. Next door is an adjoining general store with excellent coffee, cakes and local fare. Pull in to find a plant at Tom and Erin's Nursery on the way back, a keepsake of your travels.

There's such an abundance to this part of the world it's hard to capture in so few words. Resist the urge to rush: there's space out here in the High Country, and time for pause. That's what makes this part of the world unique: you must wait for nature to run its course: for crops to ripen, for cheeses to mature, for its world to stir from winter slumber and bring forth the harvest, hard won. Even come winter, though, this is snow country par excellence - nearby Hotham the crowned king of the slopes, a skiers paradise. A place for all seasons, indeed.

SPECIAL OFFERS AND MUST-VISIT WINERIES - HIGH COUNTRY TASTE PLAY STAY

While there are many places in the world that could lay claim to being 'God's Country', the mountains and valleys of Victoria's High Country make a more compelling argument than most. Situated in the north-east of the state, it's a region that enchants and entices at every turn, from its majestic peaks to its constellation of small, historic townships - amongst them Beechworth, Bright, Mansfield, Myrtleford, Milawa, Yackandandah, and Glenrowan - forested byways and inviting wineries. As alluring to visit in the summer for its Great

Outdoors appeal as it is in the winter for its world-class skiing, High Country offers everything one could ever want from a gourmet getaway destination and more besides. As ever, Members, scan the code on this page to receive access to exclusive Members Extras discounts for your visit to this unique and endlessly absorbing region.

SAM MIRANDA

Part of a multi-generational Italian wine family, Sam Miranda has carved his name into the halls of fame along King Valley's revered Prosecco Road. In 2004, Sam (Junior), the third generation Miranda to be involved in the family's winemaking in Australia, produced the first vintage from his Oxley vineyard. This was the start of Sam Miranda of the King Valley.

The Sam Miranda King Valley Winery is not only the gateway to the King Valley, it is part of the Milawa Gourmet Region. With views to the Warby Ranges to the west, Mt Buffalo, Mt Hotham, Mt Bogong to the east and Mt Buller to the south, its central location in the King Valley, Ovens Valley and Alpine Regions gives it a complexity which no other destination in Victoria offers. The Cellar Door is open between 10am and 5pm, 7 days per week with lunch from 11am to 3pm. The expansive terrace area is the perfect place to relax and look out over the lawns and towards the red gums along the creeks and the King River. Enjoy the wines and treat yourself to a menu from the kitchen using seasonal local produce, including from Sam's Kitchen Garden.

Then, rest your head directly across the road at Pin Oak Park, the perfect accommodation for your weekend wine tour just 10 minutes drive from Wangaratta. A modern, fully furnished two-bedroom house with a fully equipped kitchen and views down towards the King Valley, it's the ideal rural retreat.

LOCAL RECOMMENDATION

Bring your bike and ride the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail from Wangaratta via Oxley (and Sam Miranda King Valley) to Milawa. Alternatively, don't miss a stop at Milawa Cheese Company - you won't regret it.

WINE + FOOD MATCH

Nebbiolo with pork, from Sam's Kitchen's current menu: pork cutlet Milanese - pork cutlets in a panko crumb, served with haloumi chips,house-made green chilli relish, warmed garlic green beans, and local Jim Jan preserved lemons. Delicious!

Visit Sam Miranda Wines

MICHELINI WINES

Generational family ownership is the foundation of Michelini Wines, building on the determination and passion of pioneer Emo Michelini, through to the fourth generation of the Michelini family. Hand crafted, small batch volumes and refined winemaking techniques, coupled with attention to detail, are their hallmarks, reflecting their Italian heritage and Australian home. Whether touring the Great Alpine Road or cycling the Rail Trail, drop in and sample their Trophy and award-winning Italian varietals, and enjoy an antipasto platter made from locally sourced cheeses, meats and seasonal fruits. Cellar Door open daily, 10am-5pm.

LOCAL RECOMMENDATION

Wood fired pizza at Bastoni Pizzeria is an authentic Italian experience by Head Chef and Owner Sergio Pavone, and one not to be missed when visiting Myrtleford.

WINE & FOOD MATCH

Michelini Sangiovese and antipasto is an ideal late afternoon or evening meal outside in the summer air!

Visit Michelini Wines

ELM DINING

Elm Dining, nestled in the picturesque town of Bright, offers a refined culinary experience in a relaxed yet elegant setting, and showcases the best of Victoria's High Country. Each dish on the seasonal menu is crafted with care, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the region's rich produce, and reflect the vibrant flavours of the area, while seamlessly blending international inspiration. Complementing the menu is an extensive wine list, featuring cool-climate varietals from the surrounding Alpine Valleys, plus a selection of exceptional wines from across Australia and the world. It's the perfect destination for an unforgettable meal in the heart of Bright.

LOCAL RECOMMENDATION

Sister restaurant The Yard is located right next door offering wine, cocktails and a mouth-watering array of Southern American-inspired share plates and quick bites.

WINE + FOOD MATCH

Try the Chef 's Selection Tasting Menu, showcasing the finest ingredients from the region with expertly chosen wines.

Visit Elm Dining

BAILEY'S OF GLENROWAN

Since 1870, Baileys of Glenrowan is an esteemed name, known for its organic Shiraz, specifically the 1904 Block Shiraz, with the famed 1904 Block being one of the oldest vineyards in North-East Victoria. The vineyard is completely dry-grown, resulting in fruit of rare flavour and intensity. Specialties include Shiraz, Durif, Muscat,Muscadelle, Fiano and Nero d'Avola. Baileys of Glenrowan applied their passion for organic farming and food to create the Bundarra Organic Kitchen. The winery expanded the original veggie patch and chook pen and now produce their own seasonal produce and farm free range eggs to use in the kitchen. Baileys also press estate grown olives and bottle organic olive oil.

All the kitchen staples and suppliers were converted to certified organic, including meat, dry goods and dairy. The kitchen surrounds itself around a much-loved brick woodfired pizza oven, and the menu offers a range of seasonal share-type meals that includes organic woodfired pizzas and platters, cheeseboards and beautiful house-made organic cakes and desserts. Here you can also enjoy wine tastings and unguided tours of the historic sites on the Baileys of Glenrowan grounds, with the Cellar Door open and tours available from Friday to Sunday, 12pm-3.30pm. Baileys of Glenrowan is also the perfect spot for intimate functions - a magical place with incredible scenery, situated between the granite rich Warby Ranges and picturesque Winton Wetlands. Please contact the cellar door directly with any event requests.

LOCAL RECOMMENDATION

As a longtime local, Baileys of Glenrowan loves celebrating small Glenrowan businesses and recently held the annual September Organic Markets which saw over 40 local small businesses and artisans set up stalls. A recommendation for the town is the Glenrowan Bakehouse & Café, perfect for your fluffy scones and crispy pies.

WINE + FOOD MATCH

An organic Baileys of Glenrowan Shiraz with char-grilled scotch fillet.

Visit Baileys Of Glenrowan

DARLING ESTATE

Planted in 1970, the Darling Family's vineyard, 'Koombahla' was the first vineyard in the upper King Valley, and is named after a 42-metre-high Brittle Gum that stands at the top of the property: an impressive reminder of the richness of the region's red volcanic soils. With a passion for French wines and lesser-known varietals such as Aligoté and Gamay, Darling Estate employ a 'minimal intervention' approach with a focus on quality. The new cellar door signifies an exciting new chapter for Darling Estate Wines, marking the transition from the stewardship of John Darling to his daughters Grace and Sophie: an elegant space with polished concrete floors and large glass doors that open to outdoor seating, and views across the vines to Mt. Cobbler. Check the website for opening times.

LOCAL RECOMMENDATION

For a great view of the King Valley, take a trip up to Power's Lookout.

WINE + FOOD MATCH

Try Aligoté, a white variety from Burgundy, with rolled goat's cheese.

Visit Darling Estate

BROWN BROTHERS

Nestled within the stunning King Valley landscape lies the historic Milawa Vineyard, where the story of Brown Brothers began. Founded in 1889 by the visionary John Francis Brown, Brown Brothers emerged as a pioneering force, fearlessly exploring new grape varieties and pushing the boundaries of winemaking innovation. Their highly regarded Cellar Door invites you to taste their extensive range of wines - among them limited editions, back-vintage labels and cellar door exclusives - or discover the artistry behind every bottle with an immersive behind-the-scenes winery experience. The one-hatted Brown Brothers restaurant serves up contemporary, colourful, and sustainable fare designed according to the seasons, and with sharing in mind.