The Victorian Alps

The first image many might have of Victoria is vibrant, cosmopolitan Melbourne. Some know that the state boasts a spectacular coastline and that wineries are plentiful. Yet it's probably less well-known that Victoria is home to some of Australia's premier snow resorts.

Whether you're looking to ski your days away, let loose on a snow board, curl up by a roaring log fire in a luxurious resort, or simply immerse yourself in the stunning white-clad landscape, than Victoria has a corner just for you. The Official Snow Reports and Snow cams

Mt Buller

Victoria's ski resorts are easily accessible from Melbourne, located in the east of the state in Victoria's high country. Standing at more than 1800m above sea level, Mt Buller lies just a few hours drive north-east of Melbourne on sealed roads, making it an ideal option for a weekend away or longer stay. With its picturesque alpine peaks and abundant wildlife, it's a popular spot for nature lovers and ski enthusiasts will have a ball on the 2.5 km ski run.

Mt Buller also boasts a vibrant village, with shops, spa retreats, a cinema and over 30 cafes and restaurants. The main resort village has a variety of accommodation options for families, couples and groups of friends, and caters to all budgets.

Mt Hotham

Mt Hotham comes with starring credentials, widely recognised as Australia's 'powder capital'. With Victoria's highest annual snowfall, it's certainly an ideal destination to immerse yourself in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing. Featuring over 320 hectares of ski fields, 13 ski lifts and plenty of first class facilities, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained.

The Mt Hotham region features its own airport, so is the only Australian ski resort that you actually fly to! Accommodation is located at the top of the mountain, and there are a range of shops, restaurants and spa options available. If you would prefer to stay away from the mountain-top, the Onsen Retreat and Spa, in the nearby village of Dinner Plain, is a popular Japanese-style bathhouse that offers an ideal respite after a flurry of winter sports activity.

Mt Buffalo

Mt Buffalo National Park is Victoria's oldest, and renowned for its striking alpine scenery and abundant wildlife. It covers around 31 000 hectares including the entire sub-alpine plateau and forested foothills that mark the path to the valleys below. It's an area of striking rock formations, plunging waterfalls and spectacular vistas of white-clad snowgums and forests of bluegum and mountain ash. Birds, wallabies, kangaroos, wombats and echidnas may all be found here.

Mt Buffalo is a great option for families or simply those looking to try out a smaller ski destination. It offers ample facilities for skiers or those looking to relax in the snow; and the nearby towns of Bright, Myrtleford and Mount Beauty offer a variety of accommodation options.

Falls Creek

Falls Creek is known for its stunning wildflowers each spring, but it is just as impressive during the winter months. Falls Creek is Victoria's largest snowfield and it features the state's biggest snow-making facility. Whether you're looking to ski, snowboard or simply play about in the snow and build a snowman, you'll have plenty of options. You might join a ski class, discover kite-boarding or ride a toboggan. Families, novices and experienced snow enthusiasts are all catered for.

Falls Creek boasts a variety of cafes and restaurants and accommodation including budget apartments, character-infused chalets and five-star retreats.

Remember the Alpine National Parks are managed by Parks Victoria here is an example of some spectacular walking tracks that can be enjoyed, please remember to take care when in the Great Alpine Valleys the weather can change very quickly. Map

MORE INFORMATION