Things to do on the Ovens River
The Ovens runs along the back of the property, about 100 metres from the Mountain View apartments.
The water is fed by snowmelt and rain around Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop then runs down through Bright and Porepunkah. It's one of the few rivers in the whole Murray-Darling Basin that's still largely unregulated which is why it runs clear and cold.
While you can enjoy it at any time, it’s best for swimming and paddling over summer. When you stay at Restaway there is one local swimming spot that is easily accessible at the back of the property. But shhh, don’t tell anyone – it isn’t on any maps!
Just remember, this is wild water without lifeguards! Practise water safety and keep young kids within arm’s reach.
Here are some other spots to swim and enjoy the river near Restaway:
Map: Restaway, Porepunkah — on the Ovens River (-36.6939, 146.8875)
Porepunkah Riverside Park
A roughly 20-minute walk (or 3-minute drive) from Restaway. Swimming hole and a shaded toddler pool for the little ones, plus a playground and free BBQs. Free to get in, open all the time.
Fishing in Porepunkah
You can cast a line right out the back of Restaway. There is a local trail that follows the river for a few kilometres, including a couple of bends that make for decent spots. If you’re lucky, you’ll find brown trout, some rainbow, plus native cod further down. Early morning and last light are your best shot. You'll need a Victorian recreational fishing licence and to check current season dates, since they move.
Paddling the Ovens River
Kayak and paddleboard hire runs on the riverbank at Porepunkah in summer through Bright Adventure Company.
Cycle or walk the river
The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail tracks the river for a stretch of the Porepunkah–Bright leg. You can join it from just outside Restaway. If you’d like a nice river walk, there is a local one that begins behind Restaway. Otherwise, we recommend the Canyon Walk which begins in Bright.
Bright Splash Park
A free public water park with water guns, wading pools, spray rings and an old gold dredge bucket that dumps water. Bring snacks and let the kids go nuts while you watch from the grass. Open from September school holidays to Easter.