Burton Custom Range: Find the Custom for you

Considering our geography, Australia is quite spoiled for choice when it comes to a winter holiday. However, deciding which resort has all the amenities for you and your crew to have the perfect winter getaway can be a challenge.

Whether you are looking to ski or snowboard, build a snowman, or sit by the fire drinking a glass of wine, We have searched the internet to create a guide to help you get the most out of your next winter holiday.

Perisher, located in the Kosciuszko National Park, is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere. It encompasses four interconnected resort areas: Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Blue Cow, and Guthega, and is part of the global ‘Epic’ season pass.

Key Features:

• Size: Spanning 3000 acres with 47 lifts, Perisher offers vast terrain suitable for all skill levels, making it ideal for beginners and advanced skiers. Perisher is a reliable resort, with excellent conditions for sunny groomer laps, and epic off-piste pow days.
• Terrain Parks: Features five terrain parks, including the Front Valley Terrain Park, a World Cup-level course, and Piper Park for new freestyle enthusiasts just getting started. The parks feature a variety of jumps, rails, and boxes.
• Snowmaking: With extensive snow-making capabilities, Perisher ensures consistent snow cover throughout the season, even during warmer periods. Perisher will be open on June 8th and with a closing date on October 7th.
• Village Atmosphere: Each Thursday and Saturday evening, Perisher turns into a nighttime winter wonderland, with night skiing and a firework display. The village is home to some fun restaurants and bars, nestled between the scattered lodges around 3 of the 4 mountains.

Unique Aspects: Perisher’s interconnected areas provide a seamless skiing experience, allowing visitors to explore diverse terrains without needing to take off their skis. The resort also hosts the Perisher Peak Festival, a live music festival. Epic pass holders gain exclusive first tracks on Front Valley from 7:30 am on weekends, and the ski tube allows access to the resort without having to drive to the base. The ski tube avoids the hassle of putting on snow chains and the purchase of a national park pass.

Nestled in the heart of the Snowy Mountains, Thredbo is renowned for its steep terrain and vibrant après-ski scene. The resort’s alpine village is modelled after European ski towns, offering a unique charm.

Key Features:

• Longest Runs: Thredbo is home to the longest ski runs in Australia, including the 5.9 km Crackenback Supertrail, which offers a thrilling descent from the top of the mountain to the village.
• Vertical Drop: With a vertical drop of 672 meters, Thredbo boasts the highest lift-serviced elevation in the country, providing exhilarating downhill experiences, plus the infamous community bell at the top of Karel’s.
• Après-Ski: Thredbo’s après-ski scene is one of the best in Australia, featuring a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. The resort regularly hosts events and festivals, this year featuring Peking Duk, Jungle Giants, Sunrise Sessions and the Kids Snow Festival.
• Snow Play: Whilst snow play and tobogganing are not permitted at Thredbo, the newly built gondola and snow coaster provide something for everyone.

Unique Aspects: Thredbo’s Alpine Village offers a European ambience with charming lodges, boutique shops, and gourmet dining. The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its environmental initiatives, such as being the first Australian resort to be EarthCheck Gold Certified for its energy-efficient practices.

Overview: Falls Creek is Victoria’s largest alpine resort, known for its picturesque European-style village and extensive cross-country skiing trails. The resort is a favourite among families and cross-country enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• Alpine Village: Falls Creek’s village is pedestrian-only and offers ski-in/ski-out accommodation, creating a cosy and convenient atmosphere. The village is dotted with charming lodges, restaurants, and shops.
• Cross-Country Skiing: The resort is a hub for cross-country skiing, with over 65 km of groomed trails that cater to all levels. The annual Kangaroo Hoppet, part of the Worldloppet series, attracts international competitors.
• Events: Falls Creek hosts a variety of events throughout the season, including the Falls Creek Sled Dog Classic, night skiing sessions, and winter festivals. They also run fireworks every Thursday evening and Twilight Tuesdays with Pete the Dragon for the kids.
• Beginner-Friendly: With 60% of its terrain suitable for beginners, Falls Creek is a great destination for families and first-time skiers. The resort offers excellent ski school programs and gentle slopes.

Unique Aspects: Falls Creek’s dedication to family-friendly amenities and activities, such as kids’ clubs and childcare services, makes it an ideal destination for family vacations. The resort’s stunning alpine scenery and tranquil ambience provide a perfect backdrop for a winter getaway. 

Overview: Mount Hotham is renowned for its challenging terrain and unique village location. Self-proclaimed as the “Powder Capital of Australia,” the resort attracts advanced skiers and snowboarders seeking steep runs and deep powder. Mount Hotham is also a part of the ‘Epic’ pass family, so season pass holders gain unlimited access to Perisher and Falls Creek.

Key Features:

• Advanced Terrain: Hotham offers some of the most challenging runs in Australia, with steep slopes, natural half-pipes, and deep powder bowls. It’s a paradise for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
• Unique Village: Unlike most resorts, Mount Hotham’s village is situated at the top of the mountain, providing spectacular views and easy access to the slopes.
• Backcountry Access: The resort provides access to some of the best backcountry skiing in Australia, with guided tours available for those looking to explore off-piste terrain.
• Exclusive Experiences: Experience Mount Hotham like no other resort. Mount Hotham offers scenic helicopter flights, thrilling husky sled dog tours, a Helihop service to ski both Perisher and Mount Hotham in one day, and an onsen to relax and unwind.
• Snowfall: Hotham receives some of the highest natural snowfall in the country, ensuring excellent conditions throughout the season.

Unique Aspects: Mount Hotham’s elevated village offers a unique experience, with affordable and luxury accommodation options providing ski-in/ski-out access. The resort’s focus on advanced terrain and backcountry adventures attracts thrill-seekers and powder hounds. 

Overview: Located just three hours from Melbourne, Mount Buller is one of Australia’s most accessible ski resorts. The resort offers a diverse range of terrain and a bustling village atmosphere.

Key Features:

• Accessibility: Mount Buller’s proximity to Melbourne makes it a popular choice for weekend trips and day visitors. The resort is easily accessible by car and bus.
• Extensive Lifts: With 22 lifts, Mount Buller has the most extensive lift system in Victoria, reducing wait times and maximising slope time.
• Activities: Besides skiing and snowboarding, Mount Buller offers a variety of activities, including snowshoe tours, sled dog tours, and a toboggan park. The resort’s alpine spa provides relaxation options for non-skiers.

Unique Aspects: Mount Buller’s diverse terrain caters to all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs. The resort’s vibrant village, with a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensures there’s always something to do off the slopes.

Overview: Charlotte Pass is Australia’s highest resort, offering a secluded and intimate skiing experience. Accessible only by over-snow transport, the resort provides a unique and tranquil atmosphere. 

Key Features:

• Altitude: As Australia’s highest resort at 1,765 metres, Charlotte Pass often has the best natural snow conditions, with reliable snowfall throughout the season.
• Exclusive Access: The resort is only accessible by over-snow transport, creating a secluded and exclusive atmosphere. The journey itself is an adventure, adding to the charm.
• Family-Friendly: Known for its relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, Charlotte Pass offers a range of beginner and intermediate runs. The resort’s ski school is highly regarded, providing excellent instruction for all ages.
• Historic Charm: Charlotte Pass is the oldest ski resort in Australia, with a charming historic village that exudes a sense of alpine tradition.

Unique Aspects: Charlotte Pass’s intimate and secluded setting makes it a perfect retreat for families and those seeking a quieter ski holiday. By the end of the week, you will know most of the people on the mountain by name, and the resort’s historic charm and high-altitude location provide a unique and memorable skiing experience.

Overview: Selwyn Snow Resort, located in the Snowy Mountains, is an ideal destination for families and beginners. Known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable prices, Selwyn offers a range of snow activities.

Key Features:

• Beginner-Focused: Selwyn’s gentle slopes and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for families and beginners. The resort offers excellent ski school programs and beginner-friendly terrain.
• Affordable: Selwyn is one of the most affordable ski resorts in Australia, making it accessible for all budgets. It’s a great option for families looking for an economical winter holiday, with an adult day pass costing $79 and a child pass $49.
• Snow Play: The resort features the biggest snow play park in Australia. Here, you can enjoy tobogganing, snow tubing, and a snow park for building snowmen and having snowball fights.
• Rebuilding: After being severely damaged by bushfires in 2020, Selwyn is in the process of rebuilding and enhancing its facilities. The new developments promise to make it even better than before.

Unique Aspects: Selwyn’s focus on affordability and beginner-friendly amenities makes it a top choice for families and novice skiers. The resort’s commitment to rebuilding and improving its facilities ensures a bright future for this beloved destination.

Australia’s ski resorts offer a diverse and exciting range of options for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. From the expansive terrain of Perisher to the alpine charm of Mount Hotham, each resort has its unique allure. Whether you’re seeking challenging runs, family-friendly slopes, or vibrant après-ski scenes, Australia’s ski resorts have something for everyone. So, pack your gear and hit the slopes for an unforgettable winter adventure in Australia!