Taking To The Slopes - Skiing In Australia 2018

The crisp air, the dramatic scenery, the crunch of snow underfoot. There’s something ethereal about the mountains in winter, and for anyone considering a trip to the slopes to try their hand at skiing, there’s never been a better time. There is skiable terrain stretching through the central southern half of Australia in the ranges between NSW and Victoria, but due to our mild climate, the window of opportunity isn’t very large. The season officially opens on the weekend of the Queen’s Birthday holiday, this past weekend, and depending on conditions and the resort you choose, it can extend into early October.

Early birds who are happy to travel off peak can save money during June or in mid-September through to the end of the season, and being outside of school holidays, you’ll also find that these months are often less busy. Alpine weather can be unpredictable, however, so the main risk is that there may not be much snow. If you are happy to entertain yourself with other mountain activities such as tobogganing or just relaxing, this may not pose too much of a problem. Avid skiers, a first timer who’s really keen, or anyone who wants to improve their existing skills may benefit from heading out during the peak months of July or August when the resorts are in full swing.

If you want to keep your options options, stay in Jindabyne in NSW with easy access to both Perisher Blue and Thredbo resorts. Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains is a good option (www.rydges.com/accommodation/snowy-mountains-nsw/rydges-horizons-snowy-mountains), with the resort only a short drive away from Kosciuszko National Park, and both Thredbo and Perisher sitting within 34 km of the hotel. Among its accommodations are two bedroom split level Executive Apartments with features including a spa ensuite bathroom off the master bedroom, and a modern fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, dishwasher, oven, and cooking utensils.  

A little closer to the action on the slopes is Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa (www.lakecrackenback.com.au), which is located on the border of the Kosciuszko National Park, and just 15 minutes from both Thredbo and Perisher Resorts. On offer here is a wide range of apartments from one to three bedrooms, also gorgeous chalets from studios to three bedrooms, and an impressive lineup of free activities should the snow not be abundance. They include a 9 hole par 3 golf course, a heated indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and sauna, archery, 25 kilometres of mountain biking and bushwalking trails, trout fishing in Lake Crackenback, tennis courts and more. The resort also has a full service spa, on site dining, and offers ski hire. 

If you’re thinking of splashing out, some of Thredbo’s luxury lodges, hotels and apartments in NSW are situated right on the slopes. In the heart of the village, just minutes from the chairlifts, The Denman Hotel and Spa (www.thedenman.com.au) is a boutique mountain retreat boasting an award winning alpine restaurant and a day spa. Embracing the legacy of an older style ski chalet, and a place to see and be seen, during the winter ski season it’s a short walk down to the main Valley Terminal, which connects to the best runs in Thredbo. You can read our review of The Denman here.

Mt Buller in Victoria also has a wide range of accommodation both on and off piste. Mt Buller Apartment Rentals (www.mtbullerapartmentrentals.com.au) offers a good selection of self-contained apartments ranging from one-to-five bedrooms including luxury penthouse suites, and located in various locations in the heart of the Mt Buller Village. Meanwhile, Mt Buller Chalet Hotel (http://mtbullerchalet.com.au) is arguably the place to stay and play for the ultimate alpine experience at Mt Buller. It is regarded as one of Australia’s finest alpine hotels, and sits in the heart of the Mt Buller Village. 

Breakout: Extra Costs

Getting there: Options include self-driving, coach or flying from Sydney with the latter being the most expensive. If you self drive and have a two-wheel drive car, in NSW you will need to carry snow chains above the snow line, and in Victoria they are required for all vehicles. Chains can be hired from outlets approaching the alpine areas.

Getting to the slopes: Depending on where you are staying, you may have to factor in daily transfers from your accommodation, such as using the Skitube alpine railway from Bullocks Flat in NSW.

Clothing: Having adequate clothing and proper equipment is essential, but you can hire a waterproof-windproof jacket and pants, as well as skis, boots and poles for a daily or weekly rate.

Lessons: Tuition will help you get the hang of the basics, and reduce the risk of accidents or injury. Group classes are sometimes included in packages.

Travel insurance: Make sure it covers not only your health, but skiing accidents, piste closures, and the loss of lift tickets. 

For more information, visit www.australia.com.