Alpine National Park

The Alpine National Park in Victoria has a wealth of stunning landscapes just waiting to be captured on camera. From the ski resorts of Hotham and Falls Creek to the rugged beauty of Mount Feathertop and the historic charm of Wallace Hut, there's no shortage of incredible locations to explore and photograph in this part of the world.

One of my favourite features of the High Country is the snow gum, this eucalyptus tree is found throughout the alpine regions of Australia. These beautiful trees have a striking appearance, with their colouful bark standing out against the deep blue sky and the surrounding snow and rocks. I love the way the snow gums create a sense of scale and depth in my images, and the way the light plays on the bark and leaves.

At Mount Feathertop, you'll find some of the most breathtaking views in the entire region. The mountain's summit sits at over 1,900 meters, providing stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding area. If you fancy a hike to the summit you'll find it challenging but rewarding, with a range of different landscapes to capture along the way, from open fields of wildflowers to rocky outcrops and dense forests.

For those looking for a taste of history, Wallace Hut is an absolute must-see. This historic hut was built in 1889 and served as a base for cattle grazing operations in the area. Today, it's a popular destination for hikers and history buffs alike, and it's one of the most photographed huts in the Australian Alps.

Finally, no visit to the High Country would be complete without a trip to the ski resorts of Hotham and Falls Creek. These resorts offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Australia, with a range of different terrain to suit every skill level. And even if you're not a skier, the resorts are still well worth a visit, with a range of other activities on offer, from snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to scenic chairlift rides and delicious mountain cuisine.

Mount Buffalo National Park

If you're looking for a stunning natural wonderland to explore, look no further than Mount Buffalo National Park. This incredible park is home to towering granite peaks, crystal-clear streams and waterfalls, and a wide array of wildlife, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This has to be one of my favourite locations in all of Australia.

Located just 25 kilometres northwest of the charming town of Bright, Mount Buffalo National Park is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available at various trailheads and highlights throughout the park. Visitors can take the scenic drive from Bright up the winding road that leads to the park's entrance, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys along the way. Once inside the park, there are numerous activities and sights to explore, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway destination for anyone visiting the area.

One of the first breathtaking sights that you will come across in Mount Buffalo National Park is the short Eurobin Falls walking track, which leads to both Lady Bath Falls and the magnificent Eurobin upper falls that cascade over the granite rocks. The views from this location are simply stunning, and visitors can take a moment to marvel at the natural beauty surrounding them or even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools of water.

Further up the mountain, we encounter the pristine alpine beauty of Lake Catani. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the snow gums and granite peaks that surround it. The tranquillity of the area makes it perfect for picnics, bushwalks, and birdwatching. Our stay at the Catani Campground was exceptional, providing a peaceful retreat and easy access to various short trails. I recommend the walk to the Mount Buffalo Chalet via The Underground River Track and, of course, a lap around the lake itself for an enriching experience in the heart of Mount Buffalo's alpine charm.

Continuing on up Mount Buffalo Road is the awe-inspiring Cathedral Rock, which is conveniently located at the roadside and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, as well as the rock itself.

For the ultimate Mount Buffalo experience, I highly recommend the short walk to The Horn, the highest peak in the park at 1,723 meters. The views from the top are truly unforgettable, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and even the city of Melbourne on a clear day. I decided to visit The Horn at sunrise and take the whole family, and it was one of the most memorable experiences. The early start was definitely worth it as we watched the sun gradually rise, painting the sky with stunning hues of pink and orange. The chill in the air was easily forgotten as we sipped our hot chocolate, soaking in the breathtaking scenery around us.

Here are just a few of the highlights that visitors can enjoy:

• Hiking Trails: Mount Buffalo National Park is home to a network of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. From leisurely strolls through fields of wildflowers to challenging climbs to the top of Mount Buffalo itself, there's a trail for everyone.
• Rock Climbing: For the more adventurous, Mount Buffalo offers some of the best rock climbing in Australia. The granite cliffs provide a perfect surface for climbers of all levels, and there are plenty of experienced guides available for those who are new to the sport.
• Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter months, Mount Buffalo is transformed into a winter wonderland, with some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region. The park's three ski areas offer a range of runs for all skill levels, and there are plenty of amenities available, including equipment rentals and ski schools.
• Cycling: The park's scenic roads and trails make it a popular destination for cyclists of all levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through the park's picturesque valleys or a challenging climb up one of its steeper peaks, there's a cycling route to suit your needs.
• Wildlife Watching: Mount Buffalo is home to a wide variety of native wildlife, including wallabies, echidnas, wombats, and over 200 species of birds. Visitors can enjoy watching these animals in their natural habitat, and there are plenty of guided tours available for those who want to learn more about the park's wildlife.
• Picnicking and Camping: The park offers a variety of picnic and camping areas, where visitors can relax and take in the stunning scenery. From well-equipped campgrounds with amenities like showers and toilets to more remote, backcountry campsites, there's an option to suit every type of camper.

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Mount Buffalo National Park has something to offer. With its stunning natural beauty, incredible range of activities, and abundance of wildlife, it's the perfect destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Mount Buffalo today and experience the wonder of this incredible park for yourself!

Bright

Located in the Alpine region of Victoria, Bright is a town known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and rich history. The town is surrounded by the mountains of the Alpine National Park and nestled beside the Ovens River.

The town is perhaps best known for its stunning autumn foliage display, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The Bright Autumn Festival, a 10-day celebration of the town's autumn colours, is a highlight of the year. The town's spring blooms are equally impressive, with the Bright Spring Festival being a month-long celebration of the season.

Whilst out on my usual morning shoot, as I headed back into town I was greeted by the early morning sun streaming through the trees creating this stunning scene. Right place, right time.

Hiking and bushwalking are popular activities in the nearby Alpine National Park, which boasts a variety of walking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks. The Rail Trail, a scenic cycling path that runs through the town, is also a popular activity for visitors.

The Ovens River is a great spot for fishing, with rainbow and brown trout being the most commonly caught species. In the winter, nearby ski resorts of Hotham and Falls Creek provide skiing and snowboarding opportunities for visitors.

Bright is home to several attractions that are worth visiting. The Bright Brewery serves up delicious craft beers and tasty meals, and often hosts live music events. The Bright Chocolate Factory offers chocolate making classes and a variety of sweet treats, while the Bright Art Gallery showcases works by local artists.

Finally, the Brighter Days Festival, a music and arts festival held in November, is another popular event that showcases the town's vibrant community.

Lake Buffalo

Lake Buffalo is a lake located in only 30 minutes’ drive from Bright. It was created in the 1960s by building the Lake Buffalo Dam, which serves as a source of irrigation water for nearby farms and prevents flooding downstream. Nowadays, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering various activities such as boating, fishing, camping, and hiking.

If you want to capture the best shots of Lake Buffalo, you should consider visiting during sunrise or sunset when the sky bursts with vibrant colours reflecting off the calm waters of the lake. The surrounding hills provide an excellent viewpoint to capture the changing light as the sun rises or sets, and the reflections in the water add a magical touch to your images.

Kiewa Valley

Exploring and photographing the stunning natural beauty of the Kiewa Valley, a gorgeous region located in the Alpine Shire of Victoria. This area is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, consisting of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and lush green hills.

What I love about photographing the Kiewa Valley is the variety of landscapes it offers, providing endless opportunities to capture breathtaking mountain views such as Victoria's highest peak, Mount Bogong, and the surrounding peaks of the Alpine National Park. The Kiewa River and the Mitta Mitta River also offer fantastic photography opportunities, with reflections, flowing water, and the surrounding flora and fauna creating stunning compositions.

Throughout the changing seasons, the Kiewa Valley offers new and exciting photography opportunities. In winter, the snow-covered mountains create a winter wonderland perfect for capturing the magic of the season. In autumn, the trees' leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold, creating an explosion of colour. In spring, the valley comes alive with new growth and the sound of rushing water from the snowmelt.

One of my most memorable experiences in the Kiewa Valley was capturing the silhouette of a tree on a misty morning. As the mist rolled in, I noticed a lone tree in a field that I knew would make for a beautiful silhouette against the soft, misty background. The striking contrast between the dark silhouette of the tree and the misty backdrop made for an amazing composition.

This moment reminded me of the beauty and power of nature, and how sometimes the most stunning moments are unexpected. As a photographer, capturing these moments makes all the early morning wake-ups and long hikes worthwhile. The Kiewa Valley is a truly special place, and I feel grateful to have captured its beauty in this way.

Mount Bogong

Mount Bogong is the highest mountain in Victoria, standing at 1,986 meters tall. It is located in the Alpine National Park, in the north-eastern part of the state. As a landscape photographer, I've had the pleasure of exploring the area around Mount Bogong and capturing its majestic beauty. The mountain offers a stunning landscape of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and pristine alpine scenery.

Wallace Hut

Wallace Hut is a fascinating historic site situated in the Alpine National Park in Victoria. Constructed by the Wallace brothers in 1889, the hut served as a base for their cattle grazing operations. Nowadays, Wallace Hut is a popular destination for both hikers and history enthusiasts, and it has become one of the most photographed huts in the Australian Alps.

As someone who enjoys capturing landscapes in all their glory, I've had the pleasure of visiting Wallace Hut multiple times, and it never ceases to amaze me. The hut is nestled in a picturesque valley, surrounded by rolling hills providing an ideal subject for landscape photography. Its weathered and rustic appearance adds to its allure and serves as a reminder of the early settlers and their way of life in this harsh yet beautiful environment.

Golden hour is the perfect time to photograph Wallace Hut, with the warm light casting a beautiful glow on the surrounding hills and peaks. The hut's dark and textured exterior contrasts perfectly with the soft, warm sunlight, resulting in a striking and dynamic image. Additionally, the snowy winter months offer another great opportunity to capture the hut's beauty, with the snowy surroundings adding a magical touch to the scene.

I highly recommended visiting during the winter. I recall one winter when I reached the hut on cross-country skis, navigating the snowy terrain around Rocky Dam. Witnessing the hut adorned in snow and surrounded by a winter wonderland was a remarkable experience, and the resulting photographs were truly unforgettable.

Mansfield

Mansfield is a charming country town located at the foothills of the Victorian Alps. As a landscape photographer, I've had the pleasure of visiting this picturesque region several times and it's one of my favorite destinations for capturing the natural beauty of the high country.

One of the must-visit locations for any landscape photographer in Mansfield is Craig's Hut. This iconic hut was originally built as a movie set for "The Man from Snowy River" and has since become a popular destination for photographers and tourists alike. Located at the top of a hill, the hut offers panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape and provides the perfect backdrop for landscape photography.

Aside from Craig's Hut, there are plenty of other stunning locations in the area, including Mount Buller, Lake Eildon, and the Mansfield State Forest. Mansfield is surrounded by beautiful countryside with rolling hills, farmland, and stunning vistas. The town itself has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore.

Craigs Hut

If you're looking for a picturesque spot to explore in the Victorian High Country, Craig's Hut at Mount Stirling is definitely worth a visit. Located in the Alpine National Park, this historic hut offers stunning views and a glimpse into the area's rich cultural history.

Craig's Hut was originally built in 1982 as a set for the iconic Australian film "The Man from Snowy River". After the film crew finished filming, the hut was dismantled, but it was later rebuilt as a permanent structure by the Victorian government in 1993.

Unfortunately the hut was destroyed in a bushfire in January 2006. It was then rebuilt by the Victorian government and volunteers in 2008, using the original plans and materials as much as possible to maintain its historical authenticity. Luckily my visit coincided with the hut having been completed.

The easiest way to get to Craig's Hut is by car from Mansfield (about a 90 mins drive), but be warned that the last few kilometres of the road are unsealed and can be quite rough. This is especially true if you’re looking to catch the sunrise or driving down after sunset. From the car park, it's about a 30-minute walk up a steep hill to reach the hut itself.

Once you reach Craig's Hut, take some time to explore the area and enjoy the stunning views. There are also several hiking trails in the surrounding area, including the Mount Stirling Summit Walk and the Monument Track.

Howqua Hills

Howqua Hills is a beautiful area located in the High Country of Victoria, known for its stunning natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities. One of the highlights of the area is Fry's Hut, a historic mountain hut that has been preserved as a reminder of the early settlers who once lived and worked in the region.

Fry's Hut is situated in a picturesque location surrounded by rolling hills, tall trees, and rugged mountains. The hut was built in the 1940s by cattlemen who used it as a base during mustering season. Today, the hut has been restored and is open to visitors, providing a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Snowy River National Park

Snowy River National Park is a breathtaking wilderness area situated in the eastern part of Victoria. Spanning over 870 square kilometres, the park is renowned for its rugged mountain ranges, deep river gorges, and stunning alpine scenery. It's a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

One of the most iconic locations within Snowy River National Park is McKillops Bridge. The journey to the bridge via Snowy River Road can be a hair-raising experience, but it's well worth it for the spectacular scenery that awaits. The bridge spans the Snowy River and is surrounded by awe-inspiring views, making it a perfect subject for landscape photography.