Mansfield, two hours drive from Melbourne is the gateway to the legendary High County, home of the fabled "Man from Snowy River" and the location for the film "The Man From Snowy River".

Mansfield, known for its warm hospitality and great beauty, is a town for all seasons popular in winter for skiing and crisp alpine walks - particularly around the Mt Buller and Mt Stirling areas - and in the summer months there are a range of activities to enjoy including watersports on Lake Eildon and Lake Nillahcootie, white water canoeing, fishing and panning for gold. In autumn the countryside glows with vivid golden colours and in spring and summer wildflowers transform the land lending more beauty to this magnificent district.

Throughout the High County there are a range of bush activities to enjoy including trail riding in the country of the legendary mountain men, 4WD tours, exploring historical sites including the huts of famous cattlemen and the graves of Ned Kelly's police victims. Throughout the district there are a variety of other places to discover and things to do.

Attractions

There are a number adventures to be had in the High Country, exploring mountains, lakes rivers, country towns and open spaces. There are overnight horseback trails where visitors can spend the night in cattlemen's huts and relive the experience of the pioneers looking up at the stars and telling tales around a campfire surrounded by the quiet of the mountains and the bush. There are also camel treks, driving tours, and flights including a magical tour in a hot air balloon. For those that enjoy a slower pace there are rural retreats, beautiful picnic spots, wonderful cafes and much more. The calendar is dotted with spectacular and unique events such as the Mansfield Mountain County Festival and there are many attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year.

Historical Attractions

Wherever you travel in the legendary High Country it is difficult not to sense the blend of history, legends and heritage of things past and those that remain as signposts to history. There are a number of significant historical attractions in the Mansfield district which date back to the first European discovery and settlement by squatters, through to the goldmining and bushranging days. A number of interesting relics associated with these times remain.

Mansfield has always been the centre of grazing country and many of the original families are still in the district, it is these locals that are often visitors' guides to the secrets and history of the district and are best able to ensure memories of a visit to Mansfield are sensational.

Aside of historical interest the High Country is known for its great legends and local stories. Some of the best from the Mansfield district and surrounds include that of the giant 'Loch Ness' Murray Cod seen by divers and known to taunt fisherman. The area is also said to be home to a notorious black panther who stalks the wilds. The panther has been seen by locals and travellers who swear to its existence despite no evidence being produced. Other legends include various ghost sightings and the mysterious sounds of coaches with dragging chains, a relic of the Cobb & Co days that some maintain can be heard in the streets today.

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