Whether you’re an experienced skier seeking challenging terrain or a family looking for gentle slopes and snow activities, Australia offers exceptional winter destinations right in our backyard. The key to an unforgettable trip lies in matching the right resort to your style, budget, and expectations.
From the iconic peaks of the Snowy Mountains to Victoria’s alpine villages, we’ve explored the best places for a ski vacation that promise both adventure and comfort. Let’s discover what makes each destination special and how you can elevate your mountain experience.
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New South Wales: the heart of Australian skiing
Perisher
Perisher consistently ranks as the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, and for good reason. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain across four interconnected areas, Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Guthega, and Blue Cow, this Snowy Mountains icon offers something for everyone.
The resort features 47 lifts servicing a fantastic mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. You’ll also find five terrain parks and Australia’s only Superpipe, making it a paradise for freestyle enthusiasts. Night skiing on Tuesday and Saturday evenings transforms Front Valley into a magical after-dark experience.
What truly sets Perisher apart is its accessibility and variety. The convenient Skitube Alpine Railway offers a unique way to access the slopes, while nearby Jindabyne provides classic country pubs, excellent restaurants, and a welcoming, laid-back vibe.
Thredbo
Thredbo boasts Australia’s highest vertical drop at 672 metres and is home to the country’s longest ski runs, including the legendary Supertrail spanning 3.7 kilometres. For those seeking sustained, challenging runs with stunning alpine views, Thredbo delivers in spades.
The charming alpine village creates an atmosphere reminiscent of European ski towns. You’ll find ski-in ski-out accommodation, top-tier restaurants, and a vibrant après-ski scene that keeps the energy going long after the lifts close. Eagle’s Nest, Australia’s highest restaurant, offers stunning panoramic views alongside excellent cuisine.
Beginners will appreciate Friday Flat, one of Australia’s best learner areas with excellent ski school programs. Meanwhile, intermediate and advanced skiers can explore steeper terrain towards the summit. The Merritts Gondola, Australia’s only gondola, whisks you from village to mountain in just six minutes.
Charlotte Pass
For those seeking a truly unique Australian snow experience, Charlotte Pass offers something special. As Australia’s highest ski resort at 1,760 metres, it’s accessible only by over-snow transport during winter, creating an exclusive alpine atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the country.
The resort is perfect for families and beginners, with gentle terrain and a relaxed, uncrowded environment. The historic Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel provides charming accommodation right on the snow, and guests often enjoy cross-country skiing to nearby Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak.
Unforgettable moments with gourmet touches
From intimate dinners to special celebrations, our private chefs create memorable experiences that turn any event into something extraordinary.
Victoria: alpine adventures close to Melbourne
Falls Creek
Falls Creek is Australia’s premier ski-in ski-out village, offering the convenience of accommodation right on the slopes. With over 1,100 acres of skiable terrain and 92 runs, it caters beautifully to all skill levels while maintaining a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
The resort is particularly renowned for its extensive cross-country skiing trails, spanning over 65 kilometres through stunning alpine scenery. The village atmosphere is vibrant yet intimate, with excellent dining options and boutique shopping within easy walking distance of the slopes.
What makes Falls Creek special is its less crowded slopes and genuine community feel. Many visitors return year after year, drawn by the combination of excellent snow conditions, modern lift infrastructure, and the convenience of never needing to drive during their stay.
Mount Hotham
Mount Hotham stands out with its unique “upside-down” layout, where the village sits at the top of the mountain rather than the base. This means you ski down to the lifts in the morning, a novelty that delights first-time visitors and provides spectacular sunrise views over the Victorian Alps.
With 40% of its terrain rated advanced, Hotham is considered Australia’s best resort for expert skiers seeking challenging runs and off-piste adventures. The resort receives excellent natural snowfall and offers some of the country’s most varied terrain, from gentle groomers to steep chutes.
The Hotham-Falls Creek ski link allows adventurous skiers to traverse between the two resorts, creating one of Australia’s most unique alpine experiences. After a day on the mountain, the village offers cosy lodges, exceptional restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Mount Buller
Just three hours from Melbourne, Mount Buller is Victoria’s most accessible ski resort and a favourite for weekend getaways. The resort offers over 300 hectares of skiable terrain with 22 lifts, making it perfect for day trips or short breaks when you can’t take an extended holiday.
The vibrant village features excellent restaurants, lively bars, and convenient amenities including gear rental, lessons, and childcare facilities. Beginners benefit from dedicated learning areas with magic carpets and patient instructors, while more experienced skiers can explore challenging runs on the summit. The resort also offers snow play areas for non-skiers and children.
How about elevate your ski vacation with a private chef?
Imagine returning from an exhilarating day on the slopes to find a professionally prepared gourmet meal waiting in your rental chalet. No restaurant queues, no crowds, no stress, just exceptional food tailored to your preferences and dietary requirements.
This is where Take a Chef transforms your ski vacation. Our private chefs bring restaurant-quality dining directly to your accommodation, creating personalised menus that satisfy everyone in your group.
Why choose private chef services for your ski trip?
- Save valuable holiday time: skip the restaurant wait times and maximise your time on the mountain.
- Customise every meal: accommodate dietary restrictions, preferences, and even request hearty après-ski comfort food.
- Create intimate experiences: enjoy quality time with family and friends in your private space.
- Stress-free entertaining: host dinner parties without leaving your cosy lodge.
The beauty of this service is its flexibility. Whether you want a single special dinner, breakfast before hitting the slopes, or meal preparation throughout your entire stay, private chefs adapt to your schedule and budget.
Make your ski vacation extraordinary!
Choosing among the best places for ski vacation ultimately depends on your personal preferences, skill level, and the type of experience you seek. Perisher offers unmatched variety and terrain. Thredbo delivers challenging runs and European village charm. Falls Creek provides ski-in, ski-out convenience. Hotham challenges expert skiers. Buller offers easy Melbourne access.
Whatever destination you choose, remember that the best holidays combine adventure with comfort. While you’re conquering challenging runs and creating memories on the mountain, let the details like meal planning take care of themselves.
With services like hiring a private chef, you can focus entirely on what matters most, spending quality time with loved ones and enjoying everything these spectacular Australian alpine retreats have to offer.
Your perfect winter escape awaits. Where will you point your skis this season?
