Get ready to carve up the slopes and embrace the exhilarating winter wonderland of the 2023 ski season in Australia
From the powdery peaks of Victoria ski resorts such as Falls Creek to the adrenaline-pumping slopes of Perisher, make the most of your alpine adventures this winter – regardless of whether you’re a seasoned snow enthusiast or a first-time skier – with the help of our team of travel and lifestyle experts at Westpac Concierge. If you’re a Westpac cardholder, you might already have access to our services.
Serene seclusion at Charlotte Pass, Australia’s highest ski resort and a family-friendly spot
Escape to one of the country’s most distinctive ski resorts, Charlotte Pass, which is nestled high in the snowy mountains. At a base elevation of 1,755m, this secluded winter wonderland offers an unmissable retreat for couples and families seeking a remote getaway. With its pedestrian-only village accessible just by over-snow transport, Charlotte Pass ensures a relaxed, car-free environment, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your winter adventure and the magic of the mountains. While smaller in size compared to its neighbouring resorts – with just 10km of slopes and four lifts – it more than makes up for its lack of acreage with its intimate charm and family-centric ambience.
When it comes to accommodation, Charlotte Pass offers a range of cosy lodges and comfortable apartments, allowing a restful stay after your days on the slopes. Beyond skiing, the region offers a wealth of activities for everyone to enjoy such as guided snowshoe tours, on which you can marvel at the pristine alpine landscapes. Thrill-seekers can try their hand at snowboarding or take a toboggan ride down the slopes. While this resort is the perfect place to plan your holiday around snow activities, you’ll still have plenty of time to unwind and recharge with warm beverages and delicious meals.
Escape to Dinner Plain, the dog-friendly hidden gem of the Alps
Dinner Plain is a hidden gem when it comes to Australian ski resorts and offers far more than meets the eye. Nestled just 10km away from Mount Hotham, this charming resort is an ideal base for beginner skiers and those seeking great value. With two small downhill ski slopes that are perfect for less experienced riders and little ones looking to hone their skills, the resort offers a sheltered haven away from the icy winds that sweep across Hotham. You can even unleash your inner child at the snow park or experience the sheer excitement of zooming down the country’s longest toboggan run.
What sets Dinner Plain apart is its practicality and convenience – especially since you won’t need to hire a pet-sitter for your furry friends since the resort is dog friendly. Unlike other resorts, overnight parking fees are not applicable, making it a budget-friendly choice for skiers of all ages. You also won’t need to haul your bags through the snow, you can simply drive to your accommodation’s doorstep. Couples, larger groups, and families will find a wide selection of self-contained apartments, houses, and chalets to suit their needs. There are also a handful of fabulous restaurants and bars to try, including Stonesthrow at Hotel High Plains, Alphütte and Element bar.
Carve your path at Falls Creek, Victoria’s largest ski playground
Exhilarating slopes and cosy village vibes await at Falls Creek, Victoria’s favourite alpine experience. The resort boasts a comprehensive mountain village and a vast ski resort that promises an unforgettable getaway. With more than 90 marked runs across a whopping 1,100 acres of skiable terrain, there’s something for every skier, making it a dream destination for beginners and intermediates alike. The wide-open runs, along with the resort’s distance from Melbourne, guarantees a less crowded and more immersive experience. The ski-in, ski-out village setup adds to the resort’s allure, allowing you to fully absorb in your surrounds.
Choose from a range of accommodations offering convenient access and savour the charm of the village as you stroll or ski to the slopes from your doorstep. If you’re in the mood for something different, explore the exceptional cross-country skiing trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, providing an awe-inspiring journey through nature. Apres-ski delights can be found at Elk Restaurant or Astra, where you can relish in the lively atmosphere and unwind after a long day on the slopes. With incredible views and a wealth of intermediate runs, Falls Creek is the ultimate winter getaway for those seeking the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation.
An intimate escape to Mount Baw Baw, with easy day trips and endless fun in the snow
Escape to the snowy mountains and discover the charm of Mount Baw Baw, beloved for its intimate, family-friendly atmosphere. In fact, this resort is perfect for entry-level snow fun, tobogganing, and snowman-building adventures for beginners and kids.
The resort’s limited but charming village comes alive with fresh snowfall, and as accommodation options are scarce, many visitors choose to embark on day trips from Melbourne, which is a short two-and-a-half-hour drive away. Whether you’re looking to learn to ski, snowboard, ride toboggans, or simply enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes, Mount Baw Baw provides a serene and convenient winter getaway for couples, friends, and families seeking a remote and relaxing escape.
From city to summit at Mount Buller, your quick ski getaway
Adventure and excitement await just a three-hour drive from Melbourne at Mount Buller, which boasts stunning mountain views, exceptional resort facilities, and a thrilling 85 runs across 741 acres. Whether you’re conquering the blue runs of the northern slopes or seeking a challenge on the black trails of the southern slopes, the easily accessible resort truly has something for every rider. After an exhilarating day exploring the slopes, experience the sprawling apres-ski scene that Mount Buller has to offer. You’ll find yourself spoiled for choice with more than thirty bars and restaurants to choose from.
Indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at renowned Signature Restaurant, with views of Bluff Spur and Mount Stirling, grab a slice of pizza at the Breathtaker Hotel’s BT Pizzeria, or head to one of the many parties and special events at Kooroora Club, Mount Buller’s only nightclub. If you want to take a break from skiing, there are two toboggan slopes – one in the village and another in the main car park. Don’t forget to explore the charming village, where you can shop for ski gear and other winter adventure essentials or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a snow first-timer or an experienced rider, Mount Buller is the ultimate winter destination within reach of Melbourne’s urban hustle and bustle.
Upside-down adventures at Mount Hotham, a haven for thrill-seekers
Prepare to conquer the slopes at Mount Hotham, where adventure and breathtaking beauty collide. This renowned resort boasts an upside-down layout, with the ski village situated at the top of the mountain, offering panoramic views of the majestic snow-covered peaks below. That also means you’ll experience the joy of skiing straight from your doorstep to the chairlift. With its challenging ski terrain and impressive vertical drop, Mount Hotham attracts experienced skiers craving a thrilling and unforgettable winter getaway. But don’t fret if you’re a beginner—there’s a separate area just for you.
Mount Hotham isn’t just about skiing; it offers a range of activities and accommodations to suit all preferences – you could go bar-hopping in nearby Dinner Plain’s apres-ski scene or embark on a husky dogsled tour through the backcountry trails, immersing yourself in the snowy landscape. Nestled in the picturesque Victorian high country, the resort spans 790 acres of diverse, rideable terrain, complete with stunning vistas and endless winter adventures. With ski-in, ski-out options available throughout the village, you’ll have easy access to the slopes and a comfortable stay that suits any budget.
Ride the giants of Perisher, an Australian powder paradise
Looking for an alpine adventure on a grander scale? Look no further than Perisher, arguably the country’s most popular snow destination. Spanning a staggering 3,076 acres of ridable terrain – along with a remarkable 47 lifts that keep you moving efficiently across its vast expanse – Perisher ensures that snow enthusiasts of all levels never run out of places to carve their own path, from gentle slopes for first timers to challenging runs for advanced riders. While Perisher may lack a traditional ski village, it compensates with its four distinct resort areas, each offering particular charm and convenient ski-in, ski-out accommodations.
The resort also offers the Swiss-designed Skitube train system, which connects the four areas above the snowline and allows you to bypass icy roads. After a day well-spent outdoors, explore the vibrant dining and shopping scene in the resort or venture to nearby Jindabyne where you can expect laid-back vibes, classic country pubs, and a variety of dining options. Another unmissable winter adventure awaits with the opportunity for night skiing on the Front Valley slope every Tuesday and Saturday. With its vast terrain, convenient alpine railway, and a wealth of off-slope activities, Perisher promises an incredible experience for all snow-loving Aussies.
Aussie adventure meets European charm at Thredbo ski resort, home to the country’s longest ski run
Discover the ultimate snow paradise at Thredbo, where world-class skiing meets European-style village charm. With the longest ski runs in Australasia and pristine alpine terrain, Thredbo ski resort offers an unparalleled winter adventure, regardless of whether you’re carving turns down the three-mile Village Trail, exploring intermediate slopes, or venturing into the dedicated beginners and family zone. The resort boasts a wide range of amenities, including ski-in, ski-out accommodations, making it a top-of-the-line Australian ski destination. However, Thredbo ski resort’s appeal extends beyond skiing, as the bustling alpine village caters to foodies, partygoers, and adventure-seekers alike.
You can indulge in shopping, dining, and post-ski festivities at the village, wine and dine at mountain eateries such as Kareela Hutte and Merritts Mountain House, or enjoy intimate nights at accommodations, such as The Eastern Airbnbs or The Denman hotel. You can even explore the sheer beauty of New South Wales’s snowy mountains with backcountry snowshoe tours or take a ride on the Merritts Gondola for wraparound panoramic views. With its renowned skiing amenities, vibrant atmosphere, and a host of dining and accommodation options, Thredbo guarantees an unrivalled getaway, regardless of your skill level on the slopes.
