Perched just behind the heart of Thredbo Village, The Denman is a boutique hotel which has become something of an institution in the Australian ski fields thanks to its contemporary funky feel and the quality of its two restaurants. During the winter ski season it’s a short walk down to the main Valley Terminal with its four major lifts connecting to the best runs in Thredbo, and a regular courtesy shuttle picks up from near the front of The Denman for Friday Flat for easier runs for those who want to learn or find their feet again after being off skis for a while. Friday Flat is also the location of a couple of kids’ programs to keep the little ones busy during the day. In summer, The Denman is a good base for exploring and hiking the Kosciuszco National Park. 

The Rooms:

As a true boutique hotel, no room style or layout is the same. Some are described as “compact” which are fine for solo travellers or couples who are going to be out and about a lot, while the best accommodations are the king balcony rooms (some have views of the ski fields) which are spacious and comfortable. Porterage is available and advisable as the layout can involve a few flights of stairs and the odd icy crossing in winter.

Dining:

This is where the The Denman really comes into its own and the Terrace Restaurant is the first Australian Ski resort venue to be awarded a Chef’s Hat at the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Awards. Led by chef Hayden Ellerton, the Terrace delivers a true gourmand’s experience in an atmosphere that really captures the Snowy Mountain experience thanks to the sophisticated soft lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows. The focus is on fresh regional cuisine presented in an elegant and contemporary menu which fits in with the whole experience at The Denman. A real highlight of the Terrace experience is the degustation menu with matching wines from the cellar. The second restaurant is a more casual venue, and The Old Pool has main courses from between $20 and $30 at dinner, and the kids menu is $18 for a main and a dessert. The Old Pool is also where the inclusive breakfast is served each day.  

Other Facilities:

The Denman’s Après Bar is an über-chic space which has become the place to go after a day on the slopes or hiking with its glowing onyx bar and Florence Broadhurst wall panels and funky furnishings, and this is more “Sex and the City” than traditional cozy ski lodge bar. With an innovative cocktail list and some great German beers on draught, it’s also a popular pre-dinner spot and features a casual dining option for those who get a little bit “settled in”. The Denman is also the venue for Thredbo’s only day spa. The Denman Day Spa features the luxurious Thalgo range with experienced masseurs and therapists. Treatments range from aromatherapy to remedial sports massage, indulgent spa packages, Thalgo facial treatments, Thalgo body treatments, hand and feet treatments, waxing and tinting.

The Verdict:

This is not your typical ski field lodge so if you’re looking for something more contemporary and metropolitan with fine dining and spa services really handy, then The Denman is the place to be. Because of the comfort and facilities, you could easily never leave this place, but should you wish to explore Thredbo Village it’s literally a two to three minute walk into town. It’s also a great base to explore the Kosciuszco National Park area.