travel
Bushfires ravished the east coast of Australia from late 2019 to early 2020. Over 18 hectares were affected, including native wildlife, bushland, homes and businesses. In early March we drove to Country Victoria to help support the local tourism*
To some travel is only 'travel' when it involves an airport, aeroplane food and a passport. But as someone who's had his fair share of that, a road trip is a welcome change. Think no turbulence, rest stops and you don't have to pay for your seat. Growing up in a family of 6, road trips were a great way to take a break and look to our own regions and states to sit back and relax. Cut to, the Mister and I left the hustle and bustle of the city to escape to the country to enjoy great produce, wine and greenery.
Here is a rough list of where we went and highlights that make me want to go back asap!
BRIGHT
We chose to stay in Bright. It is said it has over 20,000 beds whether it be campsites, Airbnb's and B&B's whatever living situation you prefer, there will be something for you. The town is a diverse tourist town, being a hub for the snow season, hiking, cycling activities. So depending on the time of the year, you'll have different options to keep you occupied, other than relaxing with a nice book against a fireplace.
BUY: Pumpkin Seed Company
EAT: Gum Tree Pies, Ginger Baker Cafe, Tomahawk & Reed & Co Distillery
DRINK: Billy Buttons Cellar Door, Bright Brewery, Reed & Co Distillery
SEE: Bright Centenary Park
BEECHWORTH
Beechworth is your quintessential historical country town with classic country shopfronts preserved from the gold rush era. It's nice to walk around the area, window shopping for fun.
BUY: Beechworth Honey
DRINK: Bridge Road Brewery
EAT: Beechworth Bakery
KING VALLEY
For those who love a good grape. The King Valley is well known for its White Wines, Proseccos and light Reds. Whether you are after a wine tasting, event location, cooking classes or even just a good meal, The King Valley offers you a lot of yummy options, just make sure you check the opening times!
DRINK: Chrismont Winery, Dalz Otto Winery & Pizzini Winery
MILAWA
The small town of Milawa is home to... you guessed it great art, food and wine!
BUY: Milawa Mustard, Milawa Cheese Factory, Off Centre Art Gallery
DRINK: Wood Park Wines
WANDILIGONG
A stone's throw from Bright, Wandiligong is a small picturesque town. This was a local recommendation to visit, with local produce stores and award-wining regional pub.
BUY: Nightingale Bros
EAT: The Wandi Pub
* I travelled before the official Australian COVID-19 lockdown/social distancing. If you are thinking of planning a trip in the near future, maybe consider one within your state rather abroad as small local businesses need support.