Summer in the Alpine High Country means cool crisp mountain air, an abundance of wildflowers and amazing 360 degree views. The inaugural Cool Summer Festival will be a feast of music, food and wine and a celebration of the rich culture and history of Dinner Plain and Mt Hotham.

The festival will be a fantastic weekend with live music on an open stage in Dinner Plain and at The General at Mt Hotham, a long lunch with North East Valleys Food and Wine, local indigenous involvement, gold mining and high country history, art and culture.

The main stage will be located centrally in Dinner Plain and artists will be on stage from 12-6pm on Saturday and Sunday. Additional live music will be on stage at “The General” along with “Acoustic Summit Sessions” held at sunset in Mt Hotham.

Long Lunch
As part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival Programming, North East Valleys Food and Wine will host a Long Lunch at Eumarellah Ski Club. Guests will be able to enjoy delicious regional food and exciting cool climate wines around a wonderful long table. Expansive views of the alpine ranges will make this long lunch spectacular and unique.

Acoustic Summit Sessions
An informal gathering with chilled out acoustic music as the sun sets over magnificent Mt Hotham. The 360 degree views from the summit providing a breathtaking backdrop for people to eat, drink, listen and chill.

Art Exhibition and Auction
Art exhibition at the Onsen Retreat and Spa all weekend, culminating in an auction on the main stage Sunday morning.

Lazy Sunday Session
Join in the Lazy Sunday Session with more laid back music and local delights.

Additional Activities

Silver Brumby Hut Walk
The Silver Brumby Hut was originally built as a movie prop in 1997 for the movie of the same name. It was in a state of disrepair and has been rebuilt using aged materials. In addition to its cultural history, the hut is located in a beautiful valley at the base of the Blue Ribbon Ski Run. The walk to the hut will take you through alpine wildflowers and snowgums providing fantastic photo opportunities.
Guided walks can be organised throughout the festival.

Onsen Retreat and Spa
The Onsen is Australia’s first alpine indoor/outdoor retreat and spa. Experience a massage, skin care or body treatment, or simply submerge in the Japanese inspired Onsen. Centrally located in Dinner Plain, advanced bookings for all treatments is recommended

Guided Tours
Adventures with Altitude provide guided walks and bike rides in Dinner Plain, Mt Hotham and the surrounding area.

Cool Shopping
Pinnacle Hotham, Pinnacle DP and Zirky’s Sports Store will be open for the festival with up to 50% off sales at all locations.

Cool Activities
Tennis, hiking, spa treatments, 4WD tours, exploring the cattlemen’s huts, cycling and mountain biking. Hiking and touring maps are available from the transit lounge at Mt Hotham RMB and the Dinner Plain Visitor Information Centre all weekend.

Accommodation Packages
Full details of accommodation packages in Dinner Plain and Mt Hotham will be available on the Cool Summer Festival website – www.coolsummerfestival.com.au