The mythology and topography of Legends, Wine and High Country has long attracted people to the deeply engraved mountain ranges, fertile valleys, pristine lakes and waterways.

Aboriginal tribes once gathered here annually to take advantage of the cool summer climate of the High Country and to feast on the Bogong moth.

In 1824 explorers Hume and Hovell were the first Europeans to find and report what riches this part of the new world had to offer. Later in the 19th century gold prospectors came in their thousands to toil in the valleys in search of their fortune. Along with the wealth came the infamous bushrangers, the daring exploits of whom have become an important part of Australian history.

Graziers, agriculturalists and winemakers all prospered here thanks to the rivers, rich soils and temperate climate.

Whatever their reason for coming, the people who were drawn to Legends, Wine and High Country contributed much in return for the prosperity they gained. They have helped shape the region's character and given it a fascinating social heritage to match its natural beauty.

Take some time out and escape to the north-eastern region of Victoria known as Legends, Wine and High Country. You will discover a place so rich in history, so full of things to do and with such breath-taking scenery that in no time at all you will forget what it was you were escaping from in the first place.

Dominated by the majestic peaks of Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop, the beauty of the area is matched only by the quality of its ski fields, the extensiveness of its walking trails and the range of facilities that cater for the visitors who come here to enjoy it all.

In winter, Mount Hotham, Dinner Plain and Mount Feathertop become a skiers' paradise with snow-covered peaks and high plains offering every opportunity for adrenaline pumping action, the satisfaction of mastering a difficult challenge and just plain fun.

Skiing
Acknowledged as 'the powder capital of Australia', Mount Hotham is Victoria's highest resort with an outstanding record of natural snow fall supplemented by new state of the art snowmaking facilities. With 6,600 beds between Mount Hotham and nearby Dinner Plain there is no shortage, in either amount or style, of accommodation within minutes of 245ha of terrain. Harrietville, at the base of the mountain, also has a range of places to stay and a shuttle bus to Hotham in season.

Even if you are not staying at Dinner Plain make sure you make a point of visiting this village. All of the buildings (including a very welcoming pub) were architect designed and built from local timber and stone to suit the environment and the areaís high country cattlemen tradition.

Do not be put off by Mount Hotham's reputation as a serious, downhill skiers' mountain - there is something here for everyone. From tobogganing runs and wide, open beginners runs to long cruisers and steep, tight tree runs, there is a challenge to suit all abilities and there are plenty of chairlifts, so doing it all again is easy!

For the experienced and well equipped the ski touring is well worth the effort. Starting just below the Diamantina hut, the Razorback route to Feathertop is an exciting one that offersrewarding views along with the strenuous exercise. Snow camping is possible near Federation Hut but the 18km trip can be done in a day. Less daunting but equally beautiful are the groomed trails below the village, which join up with those at Dinner Plain.

After the sun goes down the lights go on for night skiing and snowboarding or, for those that just wish to relax with friends and family, there are many restaurants and bars to choose from at Hotham and at Dinner Plain, serving everything from sushi to traditional high country fare.

In summer
After the snow thaws, the countryside and villages remain a Mecca for lovers of the outdoor life. The Ovens, Diamantina and Dargo rivers have plenty to keep you occupied with opportunities for trout fishing, rafting in some places or a bracing swim if you need to cool off. There is a good riverside caravan park in Harrietville with onsite vans and camp sites, or if you'd prefer to go bush, camping is permitted in some areas of the Alpine National Park. Check with Parks Victoria or a Visitor Information Centre for more details.

Walkers will find excellent trails to Mount Feathertop from both Mount Hotham village and, for a more strenuous route, from Harrietville in the valley below. The walk is well worth the effort with a stunning 360 degree view from the peak extending across the Alps. From Dinner Plain the walk to Carmichael Falls offers good views of the Dargo High Plains. On your way to Precipice Plain keep an eye out for the emu families that inhabit the area. For something a little different why not book in for an Alpine Llama adventure trek? The Department of Natural Resources and Environment and Parks Victoria provide excellent detailed walking guides for the whole area. Alpine areas are prone to extreme weather conditions, even in summer, so on longer walks be prepared with protective clothing, food and maps.

If you prefer another mode of transport other than your own two legs you can take to horseback with the expert guidance of the trail ride operators at Dinner Plain. There are also several places where you can hire a mountain bike. Remember that whatever method you choose to see this beautiful landscape you should take care to preserve it by observing the relevant codes which are available through Parks Victoria.