Looking for a powder fix this Summer? Why not try down under? The southeastern states of New South Wales and Victoria are home to a whole bunch of diverse ski areas, and we’ve skied them all again and again to give you our pick of the best 5!
5. Mount Buller
Why Ski Mount Buller
Combining quality ski trails, spectacular scenery, and first-rate resort facilities, Mt Buller certainly has a lot going for it. With two distinct mountainsides, there’s a choice between the Northern Slopes, packed with blue runs, and the Southern Slopes, where black trails reign. The Bourke Street beginners ski area is just like the actual street in Melbourne; very busy and best avoided when you can! Once you’re done with skiing there’s still plenty more to keep you busy at Mt Buller. Over 30 bars and restaurants create a vibrant après ski scene that’s not to be missed.
4. Falls Creek
Why Ski Falls Creek
Falls Creek is a firm favorite among intermediate skiers from Victoria, with its wide ski fields, mellow pitches, and friendly village atmosphere all being a big draw. It may only be a third of the size of Perisher, but Falls Creek beats all other ski resorts in Victoria when it comes to the number of trails it has to carve up. There are 92 runs in total and with so much choice, the slopes rarely get crowded. There’s also over 40 mi of groomed cross-country ski trails to explore at Falls Creek, and it won’t cost you a cent to access them.
3. Thredbo
Why Ski Thredbo
While Thredbo is not the biggest ski resort down under, it holds enough national records to make up for it! With the highest vertical drop in Australia and some respectable steeps, the runs are great if you’re up for a challenge. Whether it’s a schuss down the 3 mi Village Trail (longest ski run in the country) or dining at the Eagle’s Nest, there really is a little something for everyone at Thredbo. Although first-timers might be disappointed with the slushy Friday Flat beginners area, there are some greens at the top of the mountain with better snow quality.
2. Mount Hotham
Why Ski Mount Hotham
Mt Hotham is the go-to resort for experienced skiers who’ll settle for nothing less than the country’s most challenging terrain. Most ski resorts have a base at the bottom of the mountain, but not Mt Hotham. The ski village is perched on an alpine ridge that’s blanketed with snow during the winter. Stay up here and you’ll have views of the clouds alongside the white slopes below! With over 20 restaurants and bars to dine and drink in, there’s no shortage of après ski fun, not to mention the snow tubing, tobogganing, and 22 mi of cross-country ski trails to explore!
1. Perisher
Why Ski Perisher
One of the best ski resorts in Australia is Perisher, and not just because it’s the biggest. This place is an all-singing, all-dancing alpine resort with stacks of activities and facilities to keep you entertained off the slopes. With an impressive 3,076 ac of skiable terrain, there's no doubt something for everyone to explore. But the fun isn’t over when the sun goes down at Perisher, because every Tuesday and Saturday the Front Valley slope is lit up for night skiing. Although we’ve got to mention, Perisher does have quite a few T-bars so if you’re not a fan of those, steer away.