Myrtleford
Myrtleford is steeped in history from the gold fields
and bush rangers to the more recent ethnic groups who are
honoured each year with the International Festival.
Miners seeking seems of gold took supplies and rested in Myrtleford before continuing to te goldfields of the Buckland Valley. This tradition continues as hungry travellers stop over to rest and taste the variety of the country fare. The influence of that other pioneer, the horse, is commemorated in Myrtleford each Boxing Day at the famous Golden Spurs Rodeo.
But it is the descendant's of Myrtleford's many Italian and
other southern European settlers who are now transforming
this district into one of Victoria's most exciting new cool
climate wine and fresh produce regions.
The state's oldest walnut grove still produces the much sought-after Myrtleford Jewel and Franquette varieties.
Old kilns built from logs hewn from the local forest are a landmark to the area. Marking the entrance to the town, is a beautifuly crafted river rud gum crafted by a famous local artisan with help from local school children.
Myrtleford is situated in the centre of the picturesque
Ovens Valley in the North East of Victoria.
The small town is beautifully positioned at the foot of
Mt Buffalo, and is named after the glorious trees
which line the nearby creek. The mountains offer a
cool escape from the summer heat, the streams and rivers
are a favourite with fishing enthusiasts, campers and
horse riders.
4WD exponents revel in the more challenging terrain,
while all enjoy its natural beauty.
Myrtleford supports a thriving community which derives
its income from agricultural, pastoral, forestry and
tourism interests, and the township facilities parallel
with those of larger centres.
Tobacco, timber, hops and produce feature as local
resources for both the local and international markets.
Myrtleford is now in the process of establishing an annual
"ALPINE EXPO"
Myrtleford and its neighbouring towns offer large
range of accommodation facilities to suite everyone's
needs and budget.
Caravan parks and camping grounds beside a lake,
river or an open field.
Bunk-down in a Youth Hostel, economical hotel/motel
room or a luxury motel, with spa and room service.
Travel from Melbourne to Myrtleford approximately
3 hours, via the Hume Freeway to Wangaratta, then
take the Ovens Valley Highway.
From Sydney to Myrtleford approximately 7 hours via
the Hume Highway to Wodonga then the Kiewa Valley
Highway.
Several parks and gardens ablaze with colour in Autumn and
offering a cool respite in summer, as perfect picnic
areas, with the majority offering coin-in-the-slot
barbecues, playground equipment and toilet facilities.
The oldest commercial walnut grove still operates as a local
family business, and open to the visitor.
The commercial Red Deer stud open to the public to feed, touch and
learn about these majestic animals, enjoy morning or afternoon
tea or just browse through the range of hand made leather goods.
Myrtleford is the perfect base for a touring holiday
of the Ovens Valley and the High East of Victoria.
Drive anywhere for just 60 minutes and you are very
soon in the mountains and the huge Alpine National Park,
or discover quaint old gold-mining towns and the craft
shop, museums, art galleries and cafes in beautifully
restored historic buildings.
Sport and outdoor activities play a large part in the
local community.
The annual Easter tennis tournament attracts players
from throughout Victoria. The High Country
Ultra-Cross is a mecca for off-roaders, while
the Myrtleford Motor Sports Club attracts
interstate competitors to its regular speedway
meetings.
The indoor sports stadium attracts large grounds to
its basketball competition and the recreation
reserve hosts the annual Myrtle ford show the
Golden Spurs Rodeo, the picturesque golf course
is located only a few kilometres from the centre
of the town.
Annual Attractions in Myrtleford are numerous: