MANSFIELD

Mansfield

A scenic two-hour drive from Melbourne, the country town of Mansfield seems a million miles from city life. Mansfield is a major trail riding centre, a result of its long tradition with horses which dates back to when they were used by cattlemen driving their herds up to the high mountain pastures.

The outdoor adventures don't end with horse riding however, the town is also a popular base for mountain biking, rock climbing, fly fishing and bushwalking. In winter the focus turns to the snowfields, with nearby Mount Buller boasting a variety of skiing terrains from beginner to some of the most challenging runs in the country. Nearby Mt Stirling provides excellent cross-country skiing, with many well-marked trails through sheltered forests of alpine ash, snow gum woodlands and open plains.

Quick facts

Population approximately 7,500
185 kilometres north-east of Melbourne
Close to Mount Buller and Mt Stirling
Popular base for outdoor adventures.

Activities and attractions

Head to Mount Buller and Mt Stirling for great winter skiing
Saddle up and relive the film, The Man from Snowy River, with a horseback ride from Mount Buller
Enjoy spectacular bushwalking - trails lead across plains of wildflowers, with views of Mount Buller and the peaks of the Alpine National Park
Try mountain biking or four wheel driving along the old mountain cattle trails
Enjoy excellent fishing, canoeing and white water rafting on the Howqua and Delatite rivers
Learn to rock climb at Mount Buller
Hire a houseboat and explore Lake Eildon
Enjoy spectacular views from Craig's Hut, Power's Lookout and the summit of Mount Buller
Visit the Troopers' Monument erected in 1880 as a tribute to policemen Lonigan, Kennedy and Scanlon who were shot dead by Ned Kelly at nearby Stringybark Creek.

Events