Whether it’s alpine sophistication you seek, advanced ski terrain or family-friendly snow play, the Victorian Alps region has plenty to offer snow bunnies. If you want the convenience and thrill of skiing straight from the lift to your chalet door, look no further than Falls Creek. But if it’s family fun you’re after, Mt Buller has you covered. Here’s our guide to the snow season in Victoria.
Mount Hotham rises to 1,861 metres in the Victorian Highlands. Image: GettyMt Hotham
The jewel in the Victorian Alps has to be Mt Hotham, where intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders are spoilt for choice with steep slopes, natural gullies and tree runs. The weather can get especially wild here (pack your low-vis goggles), but you won’t care – the terrain is that good. Holiday note: Hotham runs both ski and snowboard development workshops for women only, with expert tuition from some of Australia’s leading winter athletes.
Who will love it: Experienced snow hounds keen for a challenge.
Falls Creek, Alpine National Park, Victorian Highlands. Image: GettyFalls Creek
If waking up every morning to snow on your doorstep is high on your must-have list, then head straight to Falls Creek, one of Australia's best ski-in ski-out resorts. Falls Creek has plenty of long, mellow runs, such as the beginner trail Wombats Ramble. There's also a great snow tube park in Village Bowl, and the fun intermediate-expert Castle Terrain Park. For something a little different, join a Falls Creek yoga retreat that will still leave you plenty of time to hit the slopes.
Who will love it: Travellers who relish the ease of staying on snow, and young families.
Mount Feathertop, in the Victorian Highlands, rises to 1,922 metres. Image: GettyMt Buller
A three-hour drive from Melbourne, Mt Buller is perfect for weekend warriors. Made up mostly of intermediate and advanced terrain, this resort packs a punch. There are a number of competitions during the season, open to all types of winter enthusiasts. If you love your après ski, you'll also love Buller’'s more than 30 bars, cafes and restaurants. For a taste of Europe, head to Herbies Bar at Hotel Pension Grimus for some schnapps, while Snow Pony is a popular hang offering Thai and Spanish share plates.
Who will love it: Melbourne skiers short on time.
Mount Bogong, 1,986 metres high, Alpine National Park. Image: GettyMt Baw Baw
With just 35 hectares of skiable terrain, Mt Baw Baw is the baby of the Victorian Alps, but that doesn’t cancel it out as a good ski holiday option. It’s even closer to Melbourne than Mt Buller (2.5 hours), and has 15 runs, meaning first-timers to the snow won’t be overwhelmed, or lost. Beginner skiers and boarders have access to 25 per cent of terrain (an impressive portion in Australian resorts), with 64 per cent catering to intermediates. Baw Baw is also a good place to sample snowshoeing, tobogganing and snowmobiling.
Who will love it: Beginners keen to see what a snow holiday is like.
