Aussie snow adventures that make you smile
It can be tempting to spend winter curled up and wishing you were somewhere tropical. But to us, there’s always been something special about snow season. From the crisp, clean air and gentle winter sun to the all-white wonderland blanketed with snow.
Each year, Victoria’s High-Country transforms into a snow-covered playground. Part of the mighty Great Dividing Range, the Australian Alps stretch across the state’s northeast, offering unforgettable winter adventures. Head further north and you’ll find the iconic Snowy Mountains of New South Wales—home to Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak. And across the Bass Strait, Tasmania’s rugged wilderness takes on a new charm with snowfall dusting its peaks and forests.
Curious to experience it for yourself? Keep reading to uncover the snow-filled spots that make Australia’s winters one-of-a-kind.
THE BEST SKIING IN NEW SOUTH WALES
For winter sports enthusiasts, the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales offer unparalleled adventures. Nestled near Australia's highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko (2,228m), the renowned regions of Perisher and Thredbo promise unforgettable alpine experiences.
Perisher: Australia's largest alpine playground
CREDIT: Destination NSW
Covering more than 3,000 acres across four interconnected areas—Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Blue Cow, and Guthega—Perisher is the largest alpine resort in the Southern Hemisphere. The region offers a wide range of ski zones, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging runs for the more experienced, making it ideal for all skill levels.
Families will appreciate the comprehensive ski schools and dedicated children's programs. For a unique experience, don't miss the night skiing sessions on Front Valley every Tuesday and Saturday evening.
Thredbo: Home to Australia's longest ski runs
Thredbo might not be the biggest resort, but it boasts the country’s longest ski runs and the highest lifted point at 2,037 metres.
Take a leisurely cruise down the Village Trail, then unwind in the vibrant alpine village below. With a great mix of dining, shopping, and après-ski options, there’s plenty to enjoy both on and off the slopes.
In the heart of it all: Discovery Parks – Jindabyne
Just under an hour from popular ski destinations like Thredbo, Perisher Valley, and Charlotte Pass, Discovery Parks - Jindabyne is the perfect alpine retreat for your winter escape.
Overlooking the breathtaking Lake Jindabyne, the park offers a range of cozy cabins. For the ultimate winter stay, we recommend our modern Deluxe Cabins—spacious enough for six guests and featuring a stylish fireplace that’s perfect for warming up and winding down after a day on the slopes.
THE BEST SKIING IN VICTORIA
If you’ve never been skiing before, Victoria’s High Country is a great place to start. Over winter, the region transforms into beautiful snowfields, with popular spots like Mount Buller, Falls Creek, and Mount Hotham leading the way. There are also plenty of other areas perfect for family-friendly snow play or for those taking their first snow-shoed steps.
Mount Buffalo: Crown jewel of the high country
CREDIT: Tourism Victoria
Less than an hour’s drive from Bright, Mount Buffalo National Park is a true highlight of Victoria’s High Country.
Established in 1898, this expansive park spans the entire sub-alpine plateau and offers a variety of snow play areas, making it a favourite for first-time snow visitors. With free entry, gentle toboggan slopes, and peaceful cross-country ski trails, it’s an ideal destination for a relaxed and affordable winter experience.
Mount Hotham: ‘Powder’ capital of Australia
CREDIT: Tourism Victoria
Known as the go-to resort for experienced skiers, Mount Hotham attracts the best and most enthusiastic skiers in the country.
Perched high on an alpine ridge and blanketed with snow each winter, it offers spectacular views above the clouds and across the slopes below. With over 20 restaurants and bars, there’s plenty to enjoy after a day on the mountain. You’ll also find 35 km of cross-country trails ready to be explored.
In the middle of the action: Discovery Parks – Bright
Situated in Victoria's High Country, Discovery Parks – Bright offers an ideal base for snow enthusiasts.
Located under an hour's drive from premier alpine resorts like Mount Hotham and Falls Creek, the park provides convenient access to some of Victoria's best slopes. After an exhilarating day on the mountains, guests can unwind in comfortable accommodations nestled along the scenic Ovens River, making it the perfect retreat for winter adventurers.
THE BEST SNOW SPOTS IN TASMANIA
While Tasmania isn’t known for large ski resorts, its national parks—home to the island’s highest peaks—often receive beautiful snowfalls during winter.
Ski fields like Mount Mawson and Ben Lomond offer small-scale slopes for those keen to carve a few turns, but the real drawcard here is nature itself. When snow blankets the landscape, iconic sites like Cradle Mountain transform into breathtaking winter wonderlands, offering a truly unique way to experience Tasmania’s wild beauty in its most serene and spectacular form.
Cradle Mountain: Where snow meets serenity
CREDIT: Tourism Tasmania
Cradle Mountain, located at the northern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, is one of Tasmania's most visited natural attractions.
Renowned for its stunning landscapes, the area features moss-covered ancient rainforests, deep river gorges, glacially carved lakes, and snow-covered mountain peaks. The park is also home to the famous Overland Track, a 65 km, six-day trek that attracts walkers from around the world.
With abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery, Cradle Mountain offers an immersive nature experience that feels truly unique.
Stay amongst nature: Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain
Set in the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness, Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain offers a premium cabin-in-the-woods experience. The Deluxe Cabins feature air-conditioning and a fireplace, so you can take in the snow-covered views and stay warm in total comfort.
Looking for more snow inspirations?
READ ALSO: 21 reasons to book a Jindabyne snow getaway
READ ALSO: 6 Reasons To Book A Tasmanian Getaway
