Top 5 ways to spend a Spring day around Mansfield
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Looking for the best things to do around Mansfield and Mt Buller in spring? The mountains offer plenty of adventures and experiences.
Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will all find something to do in the Victorian High Country. Hike along scenic trails, enjoy the serenity of the river, or try your hand at fishing in the Delatite or Howqua. Golfers can test their skill at Mansfield Golf Course, or just enjoy a social round with mates. For food and wine lovers, local wineries and breweries offer tastings and long lunches. While Mansfield’s regular and long-weekend markets show off local fresh produce, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats.
This guide highlights five of the best things to do around Mansfield and Mt Buller in spring. Each activity offers a chance to soak up the scenery, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and experience the region from a different perspective than the winter slopes. Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend escape, or a longer stay, these spring experiences prove that the mountains are full of life long after the snow disappears. However, If you are looking to get a final ski trip in, read my Mt Buller in September guide here.
So what is there to do in a ski town once the snow starts to melt? Here are 5 of my favourite ways to spend a spring day in the mountains.
Top 5 Activities
Hiking
There is no shortage of great hiking options in the area. Some of which can be a little dicey when covered in snow, so we’ll save those ones for summer. Here I’ll focus on a few of the lower spring friendly trails.
The Plain Creek Falls walk is a fairly easy 7 km round trip hike with a little waterfall at the top. The walk meanders through the bush alongside plain creek. You’ll gain elevation towards the end of the track, before you pop out of the trees at the base of a waterfall. If you’re not feeling up to the full 7 kilometers there is also a shorter 2 km loop. This track still makes for a great walk, even without the waterfall.
When we’ve done these walks in early spring we’ve had the place to ourselves, however the later in the season you go the busier it will be. Be prepared to do some light bush bashing though if you’re there in winter or early spring and there’s been recent storms, as fallen trees and branches don’t always seem to get cleared regularly.
Another alternative if you’re looking for a scenic walk is the Delatite river trail. While this trail does run all the way from Mirimbah to the top of Mt Buller, you can choose to do as little or as much as you like. If you’re looking for a serious hike, by spring time you should be able to make it most of the way up the mountain before hitting the snow line. The lower portion crosses a number of charming (but sturdy) wooden log bridges as it winds along the Delatite River, giving the hike a bit of an adventurous feel.
Fishing
Come the first Saturday of September, trout season is open for business. Both the Delatite River and the Howqua River are well known for their trout, with plenty of browns and rainbows just waiting to be caught. There are lots of spots along both to set yourself up with your rod. Or if you prefer fly fishing, both rivers are shallow enough in most spots to allow for wading.
You’ll find plenty of good entry points to the Howqua around Sheepyard flats and the campsites that follow. Although be cautious venturing much further than Sheepyards without a 4WD, as the road can sometimes be rough. If you’d rather not venture that far, there are lots of pull outs along Mt Buller Road in Merrijig and Sawmill Settlement that give access to the Delatite. It’s perfect for an impromptu afternoon fish or a quick stop off after a hike.
Although, for those in search of a bigger prize, Lake Eildon and Eildon pondage are where you want to be. These waters are regularly stocked and are known for producing trophy sized fish, the kind you’ll be telling friends about for weeks.
Either way, pack a picnic, find a nice shady spot and make a day of it. Even if you don’t catch anything, it’s still a great day out.
Food & Wine
While the snow may be melting, the food and wine scene is just starting to shine. Spring is the perfect time to eat and drink your way around the region. Start your day with some wine tasting at Delatite Winery, enjoy the delicious drops while admiring the view of Mt Buller. Or if wine isn’t your thing, try the Buller Road Brewery, where the pacific ale is definitely worth a taste. If you’re willing to journey a bit further the Jamieson brewery is always a hit. Although make sure to book a table if your going at a busy time.
After all those beers, you should probably be eating something. There are too many good restaurants around to mention them all (Check out my dedicated Mansfield food guide here), Instead I’ll let you in on my favourite lunch & dinner spot. While you often hear that The Produce Store is Mansfield’s go to lunch spot (and don’t get me wrong it is great), my favourite is the Coffee Merchant. Along with serving great coffee, they do a top notch lunch menu. I highly recommend the Lamb flatbread, the garlicky goodness of the lamb along with their home made bread will have you coming back again and again.
For dinner you can’t go past The Fields. They have a seasonal menu with Asian inspired food, some of the best I’ve had in Australia. Their cocktail menu doesn’t disappoint either, with a rhubarb & yuzu mix that’s not to be missed.
Markets
Mansfield has a number of markets throughout the year. The regular ones are the outdoor providore market on the second Saturday of every month and the farmers market on the fourth Saturday of the month. Both offer a great variety of homemade and home grown produce, such as jams, honey, fruit and veg and my favourite, the Turkish bread and Gözleme. If you time it right you might even be able to pick up a few chooks or a puppy.
If you’re around on a long weekend though, you might luck into the bush market. This market comes to town on the Saturday of Australia day, Easter, Queen’s Birthday and Melbourne Cup long weekends. This is a proper country market, It takes over the main street and draws locals and visitors alike. There are the regulars selling their fresh produce and homemade preserves, as well as a variety of stalls selling amazing handmade crafts and jewellery. You can grab a coffee, wander through the stalls, and find your next treasure.
Regardless of which market you visit, it’s a great place to stock up on picnic supplies before heading out for a hike, a fish or a scenic drive.
Golfing
Another great spring option is golfing. While this is a hit all year round, Mansfield Golf Course really comes into its own in spring time. The weather is pleasantly warm, the greens are pristine and running quick and the fairways are lush.
Even if you’re not a regular golfer, it’s a great place to have a relaxed hit. It’s generally pretty quiet, so you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the course without feeling rushed. It’s no breeze for the experienced golfer either, the narrow fairways punish any slices or hooks. Some well placed bunkers force you to carefully consider your approach shots too.
If 18 holes sounds like too much commitment, you can always play 9 and then head into the clubhouse for lunch or a drink. The deck is a great place for a beer as you watch the golfers coming up the 18th. If you’re travelling with a group, a round of golf is a fun way to add a bit of friendly competition to your trip. You can check out tee times and green fees here. – Just make sure you watch out for swooping magpies on the 4th hole.
Embracing Spring
Spring in Mansfield and Mt Buller is full of opportunities, offering a chance to experience the mountains in completely different ways. From hiking and fishing, to exploring local markets and sampling local food and wine. Or enjoying a round of golf. There’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time in the area.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor planning your first spring getaway, these activities highlight the beauty, charm, and variety that Mansfield and Mt Buller have to offer when the snow melts. So pack your gear, jump in the car, and discover why spring is one of the best times to explore this beautiful part of Victoria.
