5 of the best ski resorts in Australia
Australian ski resorts offer a unique winter experience, combining great skiing and snowboarding with spectacular alpine scenery and a distinctly Australian bushland backdrop. From expansive ski fields and challenging terrain to family-friendly slopes and lively après-ski scenes, there’s a resort to suit every type of snow lover.
1. Thredbo
Where: Snowy Mountains — around a 5.5-hour drive from Sydney or Melbourne
Thredbo has something for everyone, from Australia’s longest ski run and challenging intermediate terrain to gentle beginner slopes. For a truly memorable start to the day, book the exclusive Sunrise Session and enjoy the first tracks on the mountain.
When the lifts close, head to Alpine Bar for après-ski drinks, or unwind in cosy accommodation such as The Eastern or The Denman. Thredbo also offers an Adaptive Snowsports program, making it possible for more people to enjoy the mountain.
2. Falls Creek Alpine Resort
Where: Alpine National Park — around a five-hour drive from Melbourne
Falls Creek is Australia’s largest ski resort in Victoria and one of the country’s most convenient snow destinations. Its pedestrian-only village means accommodation, restaurants and many snow activities are easily accessible on skis or snowboards.
It’s particularly popular with families, thanks to its excellent ski school and dedicated children’s runs. For an adventure away from the groomed slopes, join a backcountry tour in search of fresh powder. After a day on the mountain, settle in for dinner at Elk or enjoy the hospitality of Astra Lodge.
3. Perisher Ski Resort
Where: Kosciuszko National Park — around a 5.5-hour drive from Sydney
If size matters, Perisher is hard to beat. As the largest ski resort in Australasia, it offers an enormous variety of terrain, including some of Australia’s best terrain parks.
For a convenient on-mountain stay, options include the Marritz Hotel and The Man From Snowy River Hotel. Alternatively, base yourself in nearby Jindabyne, where you’ll find country pubs, restaurants and a relaxed mountain-town atmosphere.
4. Mount Hotham
Where: Hotham Heights — around a five-hour drive from Melbourne
Mount Hotham is known for its steep terrain, deep snow and spectacular alpine views. With a strong mix of intermediate, advanced and expert runs, plus a dedicated beginners’ area, it caters to a wide range of abilities.
The village sits high on the mountain, giving experienced skiers the unusual thrill of beginning the day by skiing down to the lifts. For something completely different, take a husky sled-dog tour through the backcountry before exploring the bars and restaurants of nearby Dinner Plain.
5. Mount Buller Alpine Resort
Where: Victorian High Country — around a 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne
Mount Buller is a favourite winter escape for Melburnians, offering around 80 kilometres of trails ranging from beginner slopes to advanced terrain. Its extensive lift network means you can spend an entire day exploring the mountain without running out of options.
The resort is also a training ground for many Australian winter Olympians, so you may catch some of the country’s best athletes competing during the season. When it’s time to take a break, there’s a great selection of restaurants, cafés and après-ski bars to choose from.
