Mt Buffalo in background

Myrtleford Vic 3737 (Pop 3 500)
Pic: Myrtleford Tobacco Plantation by AYArktos

Myrtleford is a pleasant High Country agricultural town 296 km n-e of Melbourne. It also serves as the gateway to Mt Buffalo NP being nestled in its foothills adjacent to the Ovens River. Originally occupied by the Dhudoroa Aborigines, white pastoralists arrived in 1830s and gold was discovered in 1850s. Named after the local myrtle trees, agriculture in the form of hop and tobacco growing eventually replaced goldmining and today walnuts, grapes, asparagus and wine are also produced. Tobacco, Timber & Hops Festival (Mar), Great Alpine Bike Ride (Oct), Golden Spurs Rodeo (Dec).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
Phoenix Tree, Lions Park huge red gum sculpture by Hans Knorr. Old School Museum, Albert St interesting local history collection. Open (2-4pm) Thurs and Sun. Reform Hill Lookout, Scenic Dr great town views. Parks include Rotary Park (Myrtle St) and Apex Park (Standish St) both pleasant recreational areas.

Nearby:
Mount Buffalo NP (7 km south) 31 000 ha park popular in winter with skiers and summer with bushwalkers and campers. Lake Catani ideal for canoeing, rock-climbing and hang-gliding. Lake Buffalo (24 km south) popular for fishing and water sports.  

Accommodation:
Myrtleford has 3 motels, 3 hotels and two caravan parks. Visitor Information Centre: Ponderosa Cabin, 29-31 Clyde St. Tel (03) 5752 1727.