Holiday houses in Yackandandah

About as far north as you can travel in Victoria, near the twin towns of Albury-Wodonga on the Murray River, Yackandandah has a personality as big as its name. In the foothills of the Stanley State Forest in the state’s High Country, the tiny village owes its existence to the gold rush of the mid-19th century, when fortune-seekers and entrepreneurs flocked here to strike it rich. They spent their findings on handsome buildings, and now the entire centre of town has been classified by the National Trust — you can take in attractions on the Historic Buildings Street Walk, or simply admire the facades at your own pace.

While the region’s heritage is celebrated to this day (you can still pan for gold along surrounding creeks, as well as tour Karrs Reef Gold Mine), Yackandandah is as forward-thinking as they come, nurturing a population of acclaimed creatives, including potters, painters, sculptors, and musicians. You’ll discover their wares in galleries, antiques stores, and boutiques throughout town, set among restaurants and providores that nod to the High Country’s bountiful produce.

There’s no bad time to visit Yackandandah, with each season bringing its own appeal. While summer temperatures can make Melbourne and low-lying towns along the Murray River sizzle, the Yack enjoys sunshine but milder temperatures, with things cooling off even more as you venture north into the surrounding High Country.

Early settlers here planted fields of deciduous trees around town, which transform the countryside with fiery hues throughout autumn — also marking grape harvest in regional wineries. And March heralds the Yackandandah Folk Festival, one of the state’s most anticipated alternative music events.

Spring, meanwhile, offers a countryside blanketed in wildflowers, attracting hikers and cyclists in equal measure, while winter entices with the potential of snow in the nearby mountains.

Take to the water along the Murray River

Paddlesteamers, houseboats, water skiing, swimming, hiking, golfing — the mighty Murray River is the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Australia’s longest river, spanning 650 kilometres (400 miles), carves out the border between Victoria and New South Wales, and it’s just a short drive from your base in Yackandandah. From national parks spiked with soaring red gums to manicured grapevines, this postcard-perfect part of the state offers diverse attractions.

Cycle the Yack Tracks

Weaving through Stanley State Forest, the Yackandandah Mountain Bike Track Network (aka Yack Tracks) is not only a heart-starting way to explore the wilderness, but it also reveals elements of the region’s mining heritage. The low-impact cross-country trails have been carefully designed to ensure the forest isn’t damaged by cyclists, while also offering thrills for those ranging from beginners to experienced bikers.

Sip through Beechworth wineries

The Yack is just a 15-minute drive from some of Australia’s most acclaimed cool-climate wineries in the Beechworth countryside, sprawling across the foothills of the Victorian Alps. Boutique growers here are known for their exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Italian varietals, with cellar doors enjoying an enviable outlook all the way to Mount Buffalo.