When the cold Melbourne winter takes hold many of us retreat to the warmth of our homes. Huddled around our heaters we wait out the winter months dreaming of the summer sun. 

But for those brave enough to venture outside, there are a host of adventures to be had. Namely that brief but amazing period we call the (Australian) snow season. 

Taking up the challenge to do more this winter. We got up at 5am on a Saturday morning, packed the car and headed off to Mt Buller. Approximately three and half hours from Melbourne, many would say it is to far to go. 

But when your arrive at the base of the mountain and start that assent and within the blink of any eye the lush green is replaced with snow capped trees and plants you truly feel like you’ve entered another world. 

A the top of the mountain the sun is out and the snow is glistening, people are moving in droves. Smiles across their faces because they like us, are surrounded by the soft sweet smell of fresh snow. 

That smell only gets better when standing on the mountain staring down the hill that is waiting for you. Now whatever your poison may be, ski or snowboard, everyone shares that same feeling that when you hit the slopes it doesn’t matter how many people are around there is that moment you forget everything and just ride!

So why give up a day, because why not. Australia has some of the most beautiful spots in the world and while it maybe a little bit of a drive away. It’s an unmatched wonder that everyone should experience at least once.  

Wanting for nothing, we were not only surrounded by snow but also cafes, restaurants and not to be forgotten the pub.

So what’s to do on the mountain you say?

STAY
Treat Yourself – get a group of friends together and book out the incredible alpine luxe Amo Lodge and treat yourself with ski-in ski-out on Shakey Knees run, modern architecture, luxurious fittings and styling and your own slice of mountain heaven.
Amo Lodge

High End Luxury – give yourself a stay to remember with a couple of nights in any of Mt Buller’s iconic hotels and pensions.  Try Breathtaker All Suite Hotel and Spa, The Mt Buller Chalet Hotel or Pension Grimus for an authentic Austrian style stay. All deliver great alpine hospitality and the comforts you’d expect including spas to soak away the aches at the end of a day and great restaurants.
Pension Grimus / Mt Buller Chalet Hotel / Breathtaker

DIY – Mt Buller has the most on-mountain beds of any resort in Australia and plenty of the accommodation options are self-catering apartments and lodges so you can grab some friends and share the alpine experience together with your own fondue cook up and wine on the couch. For Booking – simply search for the nights you wish to stay and the number of guests to generate available options.

EAT
With over 40 different cafes, restaurants and bars you will never go hungry at Mt Buller.  From a gourmet kransky on the run to a sit down grazing menu we have you covered.  Plenty of family friendly and carb-loaded options perfect for a snowy day include Italian eateries, pizza, classic pub food and more but there is also an Asian food court PoPop Kitchen and many tasty and fresh Asian-infused menu options at well-heeled establishments including Snow Pony, Black Cockatoo and Bird Cage.  Classic alpine fare at Kaptans in the Pension Grimus is a must try as is the contemporary alpine menu at Enzian.  Oh – and for a sugar hit in the afternoon try a bag of cinnamon donuts in the village square.

DO
Meet a sled dog – these furry bags of energy are a massive hit whether it’s just for a ‘meet and greet’ photo op or an actual ride in the sled. Sled Dog Tours 

Take a lesson – if you are first timer this has to be top of the list but everyone can always improve and lessons are a fun way to do it, either with a group or book your own private and hone your technique with someone who knows what they are doing (no fights with your other half) Lessons

See the sunrise or sunset – there is something incredibly special about being on a mountain top at the start or the end of the day. Make sure you stay the night if you can and set the alarm – you’ll be glad you did.

Twilight Sessions – on weekend in July and August Mt Buller turns on the lights and keeps the fun cranking until 8.30pm so you can ski, board or snow play until late.  Add some live entertainment in the village, crackling fire pits with marshmallows to toast and free shuttles back to the car until 9.30pm and you’ve got the best ‘long’ weekend around this winter. Twilight Sessions