AFTER a long year, punctuated by lockdowns, it's high time we all had some fun!
If you are looking to escape to a place that is far away from the mundanity of daily life, Victoria's High Country may be the perfect medicine.
The spectacular region is offering a number of new walk-based experiences this summer. Visitors can enjoy delicious local food and drinks, take in stunning valley and mountain views and explore charming, picturesque villages the slow way.
Here's a run down of some of the experiences on offer:
An Evening at Craig's: Enjoy a guided 3km hike to Craig's Hut, made famous by the movie, the Man from Snowy River. Once you arrive, you'll enjoy a high-end dinner prepared by chef Megan Knapp, plus a two-night stay at the magnificent BullerRoo, just outside Mansfield. High Country Hiking Tours and BullerRoo have joined forces to create this outstanding experience.
Hike & Feast: Explore Mt Hotham with Alpine Nature Experience founder Jean-Francois Rupp. the tour includes a fully guided small-group hike with a touch of luxury. The experience includes a day long traversal of the 18km Hotham Huts Walk, a gourmet lunch, dinner, drinks and campfire singing at the eco-village.
Where there's a Grill there's a Way: A collaboration between All Terrain BBQ and Alpine Nature Experience, this experience offers a short, guided, family-friendly walk from the alpine village of Dinner Plain village to Precipice Plain. Take in incredible views across the remote Dargo Valley as you enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch.
Happy Trails: Nestled in the beautiful Kinglake Ranges, The Cheeky Fox Trail offers a new family experience including accommodation at the Cheeky Fox Retreat and a short guided walk, with stops and fun activities along the way. The full day experience finishes with a paddock picnic, where adults can enjoy locally crafted drinks from the Cheeky Horse Float Bar and kids can enjoy a number of curated games.
Secluded Adventure Picnic: Spend an afternoon by the lake at a private waterfront location at Lake Moodemere Estate in Wahgunyah. The picnic experience includes a lakeside walk to a chef-prepared private picnic, guided cellar door tastings and for those who want the full experience, two nights accommodation at the property's Lake House.
Not another Ned Kelly Tour: Take this informative and entertaining tour of Ned Kelly sites in Benalla and watch history come to life. If you think you know everything there is to know about the country's most famous bushranger, this tour is bound to prove you wrong. Guests will get to see authentic Kelly memorabilia and watch modern large-scale interpretations of the Kelly saga by street artists. A delicious morning or afternoon tea at the Bootmaker's Shop will provide the perfect opportunity to quiz expert tour guide Lindsay on every last Kelly fact, legend and tale.
Walk, Wine & Wellness: Beechworth Naturally is a bespoke experience, offering guests a chance to wander, relax and unwind in historic Beechworth. Take a journey of scenic wanderings, practice yoga or pilates and meditation, sample some delicious local produce and enjoy private luxury accommodation.
For more information on what the Victorian High Country has to offer, click HERE
