This is not a gran fondo or a social ride but a true stage race for licensed racers.

The Setting: A Cycling Town Built for Climbers

Bright is surrounded by the mountains that define Australian cycling: Mount Buffalo, Tawonga Gap, Rosewhite, and Mount Hotham. The town hums with energy as hundreds of racers and supporters fill cafes, breweries, and bike shops.

Each year, riders from across the country converge here, turning the main street into a festival of colour and carbon.

The Race: Three Stages and a Criterium

The 2025 edition runs from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 December, hosted by the Alpine Cycling Club and backed by Bright Brewery. It’s part of the Victorian Road Series, which draws top-tier competition from elites, U23s, and masters categories.

The Bright Criterium on Friday is a twilight blast through Bright’s main streets. Tight corners, barriers packed with spectators, and elite riders pushing every lap like it’s the last

On Saturday, there are two events: The Gaps Loop Road Race & the Buckland Valley Time Trial.

These are no easy rides. As the event handbook warns competitors, "The Tour of Bright is a tough race … the two road stages feature major ascents, so make sure you have done plenty of climbing training.”

If all that weren't enough suffering, on Sunday comes the Mount Buffalo Queen Stage. This grand finale climbs from Bright to the Mount Buffalo Chalet, a summit finish that defines the race.

The ascent involves 1,000 metres of elevation gain and decides who gets the jersey.

As one rider said, "It's three days of pure racing, no excuses, no hiding, just you and the mountain.”

No matter how hard the ride, it's over by Sunday evening. That's when Bright’s main street fills with tired riders and the sound of clinking glasses. The jerseys have been awarded, the legs are cooked, and another chapter in Australia’s alpine racing story has been written.

Quick-Fire Q&A

When and where is the Tour of Bright held?

The 2025 Tour of Bright takes place from Friday, 5 to Sunday, 7 December 2025 in the alpine town of Bright, Victoria. The event centre and registration are in central Bright, with race stages held around Mount Buffalo, Tawonga Gap, Rosewhite, and the Buckland Valley.

What kind of event is it?

It’s a three-day stage race for licensed riders, part of the Victorian Road Series (VRS). The event includes a criterium, time trial, and two road races with major climbs and is one of Australia’s most prestigious amateur stage races.

Who organises the event?

The race is hosted by the Alpine Cycling Club, which has organised it for more than 30 years. Sponsors include Bright Brewery, which began in just two humble tin sheds and has since grown into a venue with indoor and outdoor seating for over 500.

Is it a race or a ride?

It’s a race, not a sportive or fondo. Riders compete in graded fields across men’s, women’s, and masters categories, with general classification (GC) standings determined by cumulative times over all stages.

What makes it special?

The Tour of Bright is Australia’s signature alpine road race. Its mix of mountain ascents, breathtaking scenery, and community atmosphere makes it a bucket-list event for Australian cyclists. Many national-level riders have used it as a proving ground before turning professional.

What’s the course like?

Three days, three very different challenges:

1. Stage 1: Gaps Loop (road race)
2. Stage 2a: Buckland Valley ITT – a short, sharp effort against the clock on quiet rural roads.
3. Stage 3: Mount Buffalo Queen Stage – a 20 km alpine ascent to the historic Mount Buffalo Chalet, with over 1,000 m of climbing.

There is also the Bright Criterium – a fast, technical twilight circuit through Bright’s town centre.

How long are the stages?

Distances vary by grade, but total race distance can add up to as much as 165 km across all stages and depending on the stage. The Queen Stage finishes at 1,340 m elevation after climbing from Bright (320 m).

What are the race grades or categories?

Men A–C, Women A–C, Masters A–C, and Masters 6+. Entry is limited, and Cycling Australia or AusCycling race licences are required.

How do I enter?

Entries are handled through EntryBoss, and opened in July. The race sells out quickly, especially in elite grades, so riders are encouraged to enter early once entries open.

Where can I stay?

Bright and nearby towns such as Porepunkah, Harrietville, and Wandiligong offer excellent accommodation. Favourites include:

1. Bright Velo (cycling-specific hotel)
2. Riverbank Park Motel
3. BIG4 Bright Holiday Park
4. Bright Brewery Loft Apartments

Book early because the town fills up fast on race weekend.

What else can I do in Bright?

Relax at Bright Brewery, swim in the Ovens River, or explore alpine climbs like Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. Non-riders can enjoy the Bright Markets, Ringer Reef Winery, and Wandiligong Maze. The area’s trails also make it a mountain biking and hiking haven.

How tough is it?

Very. The climbs are long and sustained, and the summer heat can add to the challenge. Riders need strong climbing legs, sound race tactics, and good recovery between stages.

Is there support on the course?

Yes. There are no spares vehicles, so riders must carry their own tubes/tools. There are, though, first aid and race marshals across all stages. Riders must be self-sufficient with nutrition and hydration.

What’s included with registration?

Entry includes race timing, course management, traffic control, safety coverage, and podium presentations.

Is it open to spectators?

Absolutely. Bright’s compact layout makes it easy for fans to follow the action. The criterium and Mount Buffalo summit finish draw big crowds, with plenty of spots for photography and cheering.

How do I get there?

Bright is about 3.5 hours from Melbourne via the Hume Freeway and Great Alpine Road. The nearest major centres are Myrtleford (30 min) and Wangaratta (1 hr)

Can beginners take part?

No. It’s a graded, competitive event for licensed riders. However, recreational cyclists can still experience the same routes year-round and ride them at their own pace.

Where can I find updates and results?

Visit the CycleHub Tour of Bright page for stage maps, entry links, and results updates, or follow Alpine Cycling Club and Bright Brewery on social media for announcements.