Things to do in Bright this winter | 8 cosy ways to warm up

Winter in Bright has a way of slowing things down. Frosty mornings, snow-dusted peaks in the distance, wood smoke curling from chimneys, and the perfect excuse to embrace everything cosy.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or you're lucky enough to call the Alpine Valleys home, here are our favourite ways to warm up this winter.

Sweat it out in a sauna

One of the newest additions to Bright's wellness scene is Haut Hütte, offering beautifully designed wood-fired saunas that perfectly complement the crisp mountain air. There's something magical about moving between the heat of the sauna and the cool Alpine air (or the freezing Ovens River!). It's the kind of experience that leaves you feeling completely reset - and it's quickly becoming a winter ritual for locals and visitors alike.

Take a hike

It might sound counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to warm up is to get moving - preferably uphill!

Bright is surrounded by walking trails that are just as beautiful in winter as they are in any other season.

Some of our favourites include:

• Canyon Walk - beside the Ovens River

• Huggins Lookout - a short hike with an unbeatable view of town

• Apex Lookout - see Bright from another angle

• Cherry Walk - along the Ovens River

So wrap up, grab a beanie and enjoy the quiet beauty of Bright without the crowds.

Get on your bike

If you're a cyclist, winter offers crisp, clear riding conditions - and even if you're not, why not give it a try?

Challenge yourself with the climb to Clear Spot, which is guaranteed to warm you up, or tackle the infamous ascent to Mystic Mountain before rewarding yourself with lunch, coffee - or something a little stronger - back in town. But if climbing isn't your thing, the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail will take you on the scenic route around our towns and villages.

Find a cosy cafe

Sometimes the simplest pleasures are the best. Settle into a window seat at Sixpence Coffee, order your favourite brew, and spend an hour watching Bright wander past.

Sip on a winter warmer

Winter and mulled drinks go hand in hand - which is something Liquid Gold Cellars have got all figured out!

Head in to Liquid Gold in the main street, and enjoy a warm glass of mulled wine, cider or - our favourite - Boozy Hot Chocolate made with our Chilli Koji - while browsing an incredible range of artisan wines, spirits, and beers.

Bake yourself a pie

The orchards in nearby Wandiligong produce some of Australia's best apples. Stop by Nightingale Bros and pick up fresh apples to take home with you. Whether you're making a classic apple pie, a crumble, or simply roasting them with cinnamon, it's a delicious way to bring a little piece of Bright home with you.

Chase a winter sunset

One of Bright's best-kept secrets is how spectacular winter our sunsets can be. With clear mountain air, the colours often become even more vivid. Grab a takeaway coffee, a mulled beverage, head up a hill and find a quiet spot to watch the light fade over the surrounding mountains.

Finish the day by the fire

After a day exploring Bright, there's no better way to end it than somewhere warm, with good food, great drinks and even better company. Wander in to Koji Bird, grab a seat at the bar by the woodfired grill and watch our chefs at work, while you work on a cocktail or two. It's a great reminder that slowing down can be just as rewarding as chasing adventure.

So rug up, embrace the fresh mountain air, and discover why Bright might just be at its best in winter.