Step outside and the best of Alpine Victoria is at your doorstep. Wander village loops or take on iconic hikes like Razorback and Feathertop, cycle along the Great Valley Trail or tackle world-class MTB tracks, or chase waterfalls and swimming holes in the summer. In winter, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek deliver alpine adventures, while Harrietville itself offers fishing in the Ovens River, birdwatching, and a rich local history to explore. Whether you seek high-energy activities or gentle days of flopping, Bomen is the perfect base for it all.
A visit to Harrietville is not complete without a trip to the dredge hole. Take a picnic, commandeer the pontoon and have your swim.
Our Ovens Valley and both the nearby Kiewa and Buckland Valleys are dotted with waterholes and waterfalls providing summer oases or a true Wim Hof experience at other times.
Whether simply an amble through Harrietville or the most memorable full day trek, there is an option for everyone. The choice is yours – how about the leisurely village loop or perhaps take on one of Australia’s premier hikes – Razorback and Feathertop returning down Bungalow Spur to a cold ale at either pub. With Buffalo, Hotham and Bogong all easily accessible, you can walk for years.
For the serious road cyclist, there are the mountains. For the mad MTB crew, there are the world-class Mystic downhills and the many mountain tracks. For a more relaxed riding experience, the Great Valley Trail at our doorstep provides a beautiful meander down to Bright.
Mt Hotham takes 40 minutes and Falls Creek is 80 minutes. Both provide options for all levels of skiers and board riders alike. Wish to take it a bit more leisurely? Take the drive and enjoy the winter experience either tobogganing or snowshoeing.
Trout season for the Ovens River runs from early September to early June. Wet your line out the back, or for the more serious, wade the many kilometres of trout rich areas both up and downstream. For guaranteed results, head on down to Stony Creek Fish Farm. The farm, committed to sustainable aquaculture, is home to the freshest of fish and condiments.
Renowned for its breathtaking scenery, Alpine Victoria is host to some of the most stunning driving or biking options. For the true Alpine experience take the 4+ hour Hotham, Falls Creek loop. After a shorter excursion, just drive or ride anywhere – it is all beautiful. For the off-roaders, the area needs no introduction. From easy to ridiculous, it is all here.
You don’t need to be a committed twitcher to enjoy the birdlife of Harrietville. Bowerbirds, parrots, thornbills, wrens, galahs, cockatoos are among the many species that have made Bomen home. Extra Brownie Points awarded for the sighting of our Gang-gang cockatoos – elusive, but regularly here.
Our beautiful and interesting Museum is just across the way. Take a moment or a while to delve into the extraordinary history of Harrietville and Alpine Victoria. While it has limited opening hours, we feel it is a must see if possible. Alternately, learn some snippets from the many information signs dotted around the village.
Need a break from the serenity? Head on into Bright and enjoy a wander around the many designer boutiques, local artisans and providores. Whether simply indulging yourself or shopping for that unique gift, you will not be disappointed.
We highly encourage the art of flopping. Get up late. Cook a slow meal. Grab a book and laze by the river or up in Flopsy. We pride ourselves in providing the environment, should you wish, to simply do very little.
