While many of us are quick to jump on a plane to explore other countries and their ski slopes, right here on our doorstep are amazing mountains to ski and enjoy all winter long. The best thing is, many of Australia’s best ski resorts are within driving distance of capital cities. They offer a mix of terrain along with a fun village atmosphere for an enjoyable ski holiday. Whether you are a first-timer or veteran, here’s everything you need to enjoy the Australian skiing season.

When is the ski season in Australia?

The Australian snow season usually runs from June through to October, while the season traditionally runs for almost 5 months, July and August tend to promise the best snow and weather conditions, due to being the coldest months of the year.

What is the best time to book a ski holiday in Australia?

As July and August are the coldest months of the year, they also offer the best snow conditions in the area’s ski resorts. Temperatures at the top of resorts like Perisher, Thredbo, and Mount Buller hover at around freezing during these months. Booking as early as possible is suggested to grab a bargain, however, you might hit the jackpot if you book last-minute too. 

What are the best Australian ski resorts to book?

Perisher, New South Wales       

Labelled Australia’s Best Ski Resort, it’s no wonder Perisher is the most loved attraction in the Snowy Mountains. It’s the largest alpine resort in Australia and the entire southern hemisphere. Boasting over 1,200 hectares (2,965 acres) of skiable terrain across four fantastic resort areas – Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega. 

With 4 resort areas on offer, it’s hard to see past Perisher. It has fantastic ski and snowboarding options for all ages and all ability levels from beginners to Pro and Features over 110 trails with a good amount of runs accessible. The resort also stays open late (until 9pm) so you can make the most of your day pass.

Best known for:

• Reliable snowfall in peak season
• Variety of runs for all ability levels
• Good access to slopes with ski lifts and trails
• Fantastic facilities for freestyle skiers and snowboarders
• Great entertainment options for non-skiers

How do I get there?

The simplest way to reach Perisher is to fly to Canberra, which is the closest city to the resort. Perisher is also six hours south of Sydney and can be accessed by car from the lakeside resort town of Jindabyne, or via the Skitube from nearby Lake Crackenback Resort.

Where to stay?

You can stay on-mountain, at Eiger’s boutique perisher accommodation. Our guest rooms are warm & comfortable with breathtaking views of both Perisher’s Front Valley to Mount Perisher, and the snow-filled valley opposite Perisher’s main skiing mountain. Our restaurant White Spider Restaurant is a cosy hidden gem serving breakfast and dinner. The mountain also offers a wide range of accommodation, trendy restaurants, cool cafés, and shops making activity options exciting and plentiful.

Thredbo, New South Wales

Image source: Snowy Mountains

Thredbo, is a beautiful alpine village, situated in the heart of Kosciuszko National Park. It’s the perfect ski mountain for those who like longer runs and ski-in/ski-out accommodation. It possesses Australasia’s longest run, the Thredbo Supertrail, with a whopping 5.9 kilometres (3.7 miles) of powder.

Advanced skiers will love The Bluff or Dead Horse Gap for some backcountry skiing. Intermediates will enjoy The Cruiser area and High Noon, while beginners have their own dedicated ski area perfect to learn on.

Best known for:

• The longest run Australia has to offer. 
• A Saturday night flare run where ski instructors and guests ski at night from the mountain peak to the village base
• Live music at Schuss Bar, 
• Thredbo’s well known après venue, Mumm Alpine Bar. 

How do I get there?

Much like Perisher, the easiest way to get to Thredbo is to fly direct to Canberra, which is approximately 2 hours from Thredbo. Thredbo is also a scenic six hours drive south of Sydney and can be accessed by car from Jindabyne, or via the Skitube.

Where to stay?

The Thredbo village is dotted with luxury Airbnb apartments with spectacular views of the mountain. The Denman Hotel is another cosy and convenient place to stay in the heart of the village. 

Mount Hotham, Victoria

Image Source: Hotham Alpine Resort

Mount Hotham is a popular destination on the Victorian snowfields. Known as “the Giant”, Mount Hotham is 1862 metres high and is situated in the heart of the Bogong National Park, just over 350km northeast of Melbourne.

In peak season it has reliable snow cover and consequently is highly regarded by skiers for both excellent powder snow and high-quality skiing slopes. The village is located at the top of forty or so ski runs, which is serviced by nine ski lifts.

Best known for:

• It’s vibing Apres-ski scene
• Great for serious skiers and snowboarders, as 40% of the runs are for advanced skiers and snowboarders 
• Some say it has the best snow in Australia

How do I get there?

Driving is the most common way to get into Mount Hotham. If you are flying into Melbourne, the easiest route is via the Hume Highway to Glenrowan/Wangaratta and then onto Bright and Harrietville, with a drive time of approximately 4.5-5 hours. 

Where to stay?

The Chalet Hotham offers an enjoyable stay with breathtaking views and modern facilities. Mountain Dreaming is another superb option, the luxury mountain view apartments are nestled in behind the well-known bar/restaurant The General.

Falls Creek, Victoria 

Image Source: Visit Victoria

Many say that there is no prettier alpine village in Australia than Falls Creek. The village has European-influenced alpine architecture nestled amongst the snow gums and is an excellent resort for all levels from beginners to experts. 

Best known for?

• Regarded as the home for cross-country skiing
• During peak season, there’s apres-ski family fun every Tuesday from  4-6pm with fire pits, marshmallow toasting, music and games.
• Famous night skiing every Wednesday and Saturday

How do I get there?

If you’re flying from Sydney or other cities Australian cities, it is best to fly directly into Albury and either hire a car or board a Falls Creek coach at the airport. Alternatively, you can enjoy a scenic drive to Falls Creek, which is approximately ten hours from Sydney or five hours from Melbourne.

Where to stay?

Falls Creek is 100% ski-in, ski-out, meaning all the accommodation is on the mountain and you can ski to and from your front door. There is a huge range of properties and a great place to start your accommodation search is on the Falls Creek website to compare prices and level of luxury you are looking for. 

Mount Buller is another Alpine village in Victoria that is highly rated among ski bunnies Australia wide. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Australian ski holiday, we know the above options will have you enjoying a mountain escape no matter which you choose.