Victorians love nothing more than a trip to the slopes, and fortunately, in 2022 the Victorian ski slopes are back open and waiting for excited and enthusiastic visitors. While a ski trip always requires planning, this year it requires a little more preparation, even if you’re just doing a day trip. Alpine Valley Getaways is your trusted choice for places to stay in Bright, which is located right on the doorstep of some of Australia’s best ski villages. If you want to head to the snow this year, here’s a few things to consider before you set off.
Book Your Accommodation
From budget to luxury lodges, Victoria’s snow resorts have it all. However, staying on the mountain can come with an incredibly high price. A great alternative is to base yourself in Bright, Porepunkah or Harrietville – picturesque towns all of which are just a short drive from the ski slopes. The best part about staying off the mountain is you have the luxury of choosing to visit multiple snow villages – you can visit Falls Creek one day and Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain the next. Bright is home to an excellent range of accommodation and dining options, tours and retail outlets so there’s something for everyone. Whether you are looking for beautiful Bright cottages or cheap accommodation in Porepunkah, you will be sure to find a wide selection of affordable, flexible accommodation options, ideal for couples, groups or families.
Work Out Where to Eat
Bright restaurants are some of the best in Victoria, from historically beautiful pubs serving local produce to the latest foodie hot-spots. if you need a hot and hearty meal after a day on the slopes you will fall in love with the many places to eat in Bright. A good tip is to research where you want to eat and make a reservation to avoid disappointment. Many eateries are in high demand during peak season so best to make a booking early so you don’t miss out.
Get Your Snow Gear Organised
Whether you are going to the snow for the first time or you’re a seasoned skier or boarder, it’s important to have all your gear ready before you head up the mountain. There are rental and retail outlets in Bright, Harrietville and Porepunkah which can assist you with all the gear you need from gloves and goggles to scarves, skis and snowboards.
Buy Lift Tickets
All skiers and snowboarders require a lift pass which provides access to the slopes and ski lifts. This year, lift tickets must be purchased online before you go, for both Falls Creek & Mt Hotham, this is to adhere to COVID safety requirements. You can choose to purchase a full day, half day or multiple day ticket. You can also choose to pre-book ski lessons online, if this is of interest to you, definitely consider booking in advance to secure a lesson at a time and date that suits you.
Organise Transport Up to the Mountain
With rolling hills and snow-capped peaks, the journey to Victoria’s ski fields is one of the most scenic drives you can take. Many snow-goers opt to drive their own vehicle, and it is perfectly safe to do so. Roads may be wet, however after fresh snowfall they are cleared by road clearing machinery where possible. If driving your own vehicle, It’s important that you carry snow chains and understand how to use them. These will need to be fitted in inclement conditions or as directed by Alpine Resorts Management Board. Snow chains are available to hire from a number of outlets in and around Bright and Harrietville. The experienced staff will advise the chains you need for your vehicle and show you how to fit them. Not all cars can fit chains, here are some helpful tips on how to check if your vehicle can fit snow chains.
If you would prefer to sit back and let someone else drive, there are few bus services which will transport you to your chosen mountain. Some will pick you up directly from your Bright accommodation or else they will advise a central location for pick-up and drop-off. A bus ride enables you to enjoy the scenic views and avoid the hassle of hiring or fitting chains to your wheels.
Buses and transfers servicing Mt Hotham:
+ Hotham Bus – Services from Friday – Monday
+ Snowball Express – Services for Mt Hotham from Saturday – Sunday
+ Alps Link PT – Services on Sunday, Monday and Wednesdays
+ Mt Hotham Taxi – Daily transfers
Buses and transfers servicing Falls Creek:
+ Falls Creek Coaches – Mt Beauty to Falls Creek
+ Mt Beauty Transfers – Flexible options
Purchase Resort Entry
If you are driving a vehicle to one of the ski resorts, you need to purchase a resort entry permit and this must be purchased online before you visit. This entry fee contributes to the essential services required to maintain the mountain for everyone’s enjoyment.
A trip to the snow is fun for the whole family and if you chose to stay in beautiful Bright you will be spoilt for choice with exciting things to do, both on and off the slopes.
For the most current details regarding ski resort entry and COVID related travel restrictions be sure to visit the relevant website for either Mt Hotham & Falls Creek and for those wanting to know what’s on at Mt Buffalo you can visit their Facebook page for the latest updates.
With a diverse range of places to stay in Bright and surrounds, we can help you find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs and budget. Book online or call (03) 5759 2555 to speak with our friendly team.