For many, winter is prime time for taking a long-awaited holiday. If snowy scenery and cozy adventures appeal to you, there’s no limit to what’s available. Get your blankets, winter pants, and beanies packed, and get ready to explore the great outdoors, and all that Australia’s winter has to offer. Be it sightseeing or skiing the snow slopes, this guide has got you covered.
Mt Buller, Victoria
Just a three-hour drive away from Melbourne is the fantastically snowy Mt Buller. A ski- enthusiast’s dream, Mt Buller is home to a multitude of ski and snow slopes that you can ride to your heart’s content. Spend the day skiing away, but don’t forget to take advantage of the impressive lift network available, which will allow you to take in some spectacular views of the mountain.
If luxury is more your thing, Mt Buller also offers some incredible luxury spa packages, as well as helicopter flights and a trampoline and rock climbing facility. There truly is something for everyone here.
Great Barrier Reef, New South Wales
Though it might sound like an odd suggestion, the Great Barrier Reef has a lot to offer during the colder months. Though warmer than most winter trips, the Great Barrier Reef will give you an amazing adventure during wintertime that isn’t available during any other season.
If you’re into whale-watching, this is the time to go. Whale season hits its peak during winter, so it’s an opportune time to go sighting. Winter is also out of stinger season, so you’ll be able to go snorkeling without a wetsuit if that appeals to you. Also, as it’s the dry season for the reef, you can expect little to no rainfall and some calming fresh coastal breezes to keep you cool.
Falls Creek, Victoria
If you’re genuinely looking for a thrill, Falls Creek has got you covered. Victoria’s largest alpine resort is home to 65 kilometers of cross-country trails, alongside downhill skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and some amazing terrain parks. There are also classes available for beginning skiers that cater to both adult and children demographics.
Though it’s a prime spot for sports lovers, Falls Creek is also an excellent option for families. With a myriad of kids’ activities available, as well as day spas, family-friendly restaurants, and cafes- Falls Creek truly has something for everybody.
Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
If local wildlife is more your thing, then head to Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. A prime spot to catch native animals roaming the land, wombats, and wallabies is regularly spotted around the ski village. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to spot a Tasmanian devil.
Cradle Mountain is full of fun things to do, with the site offering after-dark wildlife spotting, canyoning tours, hiking, and horseback riding. You can also just kick back and relax in one of their premier hotels and lodges, where you’re still likely to spot some native wildlife.
Mount Hotham, Victoria
One of Australia’s highest alpine villages, Mount Hotham is perfect for snow lovers. There is a myriad of different activities available for skiers, snowboarders, and tobogganers alike, and the snow-making facilities make it so that you’ll never have to worry about it being the right weather for your trip.
If you feel like doing something extra special, look into booking a husky sled tour. Guided by a pack of huskies, this sled tour will let you see all the beautiful sights of Mount Hotham – as well as allow you to cuddle up with some very excited dogs once the tour has finished.
Featured Photo by Patrick Robert Doyle on Unsplash
