The bliss bubble: Why Bright is the quintessential escape for Melbournians fed up with the city

Bright represents tree-change bliss for many Melbournians. Photo: Josie Withers

Beers, bikes, freshly roasted coffee beans and a boutique cinema – chatting to Bright local James Davidson, it doesn’t take long to be drawn into the Bright bliss bubble.

Set in north-eastern Victoria just over three hours’ drive from Melbourne, this picturesque sub-alpine town is a base for exploring the peaks of Mount Buffalo, Mount Hotham and the Alpine National Park. But it’s also a mecca for cyclists and an increasingly popular destination for seekers of fine food and drink.

Davidson moved from Melbourne to Bright four years ago, looking to escape the city congestion, while taking up the role of marketing manager with award-winning Bright Brewery. He quickly came to appreciate the four distinct seasons, outdoor lifestyle and the town’s amenity.

“Unlike many country towns, we’ve got two supermarkets, a beautiful little cinema, great brekkie and lunch cafes, our own coffee roaster, great bars and restaurants and, of course, the brewery,” he says.

“We have a lot of that modern convenience of the city, but in a spectacular alpine setting. It’s a really fresh, pristine environment, with no traffic lights!”

Cyclist sanctuary

The town is a favourite for cyclists in the region. Photo: Josie Withers

Cyclists are spoilt for choice, with a huge variety of terrains to tackle.

“It’s hard to come to Bright and not want to jump on your bike,” says Davidson.

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“We’ve got some of the best mountain climbs in Australia, or if you’re just a casual cyclist, we’ve got one of the biggest rail trails, which goes from Wangaratta to Bright and is great for the whole family. 

“For hard-core mountain bike riders, there’s Mystic Park, which is used for national-level competitions.”

Tree-change appeal

Bright typically appeals to tree-changers from capital cities on the east coast. Photo: Josie Withers

Doubleday Real Estate agent Sasha Romensky says Bright remains popular with buyers from Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra.

“Bright appeals to tree-changers from the capital cities on the east coast,” he says. “It’s for those who are after an alpine retreat not only on the doorstep of the premier ski-mountain resorts, but all the year-round delights the town offers. The burgeoning cosmopolitan feel has embraced the most discerning of the latte set.”

Recent top sales include $1.75 million for an 8.4-hectare property on Mount Buffalo Road with a four-bedroom main residence, adjoining the two-bedroom, self-contained home and a separate self-contained studio. On Stackey Gully Road, a 1.2-hectare property, with a modern four-bedroom house and pool, sold for $1,325,000.

“There are now quite a few executive retreats and boutique stays,” says Romensky.

Top home in the area

A look inside 4 Bluegum Court, Bright VIC. Photo: Supplied

Mountain views, established gardens, extensive garaging and a huge family home are all part of the package at this 4500-square-metre estate at Bluegum Court.

The modern house has north-facing living areas with floor-to-ceiling windows, a gas kitchen and oversize bedrooms. It includes a heated pool and spa and multiple alfresco entertaining zones.

Doubleday Real Estate have set the price guide at $1.8 million to $1.98 million.