Melbourne offers a unique advantage of being a gateway to various snow trip destinations, allowing visitors to experience the best of both city life and winter adventures.

While snow is not readily available in the inner city, there are several enchanting winter wonderland destinations just a short distance from Melbourne.

Mount Buller Skiing

Mount Buller

One such destination is Mount Buller, which attracts countless snow enthusiasts every season and is the most popular snow spot in Victoria. The journey from Melbourne to Mount Buller takes approximately three hours and offers picturesque views of lush bushland transforming into a snow-covered landscape. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, Mount Buller caters to all skill levels with its variety of slopes. From gentle green runs like Bourke St and Burnt Hut Spur for beginners, to challenging black runs like Chamois and the back of Summit for advanced skiers, there’s something for everyone. Lessons are available for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities, ensuring you can build your confidence before hitting the slopes. Additionally, ski clothing and equipment can be rented from various convenient locations.

Beyond skiing and snow-related activities, the Mount Buller Resort offers a host of facilities and attractions for all types of travelers. From lively restaurants and bars that stay open late into the freezing nights, serving delightful mulled wine, frosty beer, and mouth-watering dinners, to a cinema showcasing the latest movies and a local museum providing insights into the region’s history, there’s no shortage of entertainment options.

Lake Mountain

For those seeking a more accessible snow adventure, Lake Mountain is an excellent choice, just a two-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. It is an ideal destination for families or couples looking for a quick getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. Daily activities and lessons cater to various skill levels, and the resort offers a range of easy activities suitable for the whole family, including tobogganing, flying fox, tube runs, and snow play areas. Nature enthusiasts can explore the walking tracks and enjoy the local wildlife, with hiking options available for different fitness levels. If skiing is your passion, Lake Mountain boasts some of the most scenic cross-country routes in the region.

Mount Donna Buang

Located in the Yarra Valley, Mount Donna Buang is another snow resort worth visiting, just a couple of hours’ drive from Melbourne’s city center. The resort offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne city, and the Alps from its 21-meter lookout tower. Depending on the amount of snowfall, visitors can enjoy various activities. During heavy snowfall, families can partake in tobogganing and other snow-related fun. On days with lighter snow, the area transforms into a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks, with numerous walking tracks and picnic tables available.

Falls Creek

Falls Creek Skiing

Falls Creek, nestled in the northeast of Victoria, is a renowned resort town famous for its slopes and cross-country tracks. Although it takes approximately four and a half hours to reach Falls Creek from Melbourne, the journey is well worth it. The resort is surrounded by the stunning Kiewa Valley and Mount Beauty. For a truly remarkable experience, Falls Creek offers a helicopter service that allows you to travel directly from the city to the resort, granting you spectacular views as the cityscape transitions into picturesque countryside and eventually a snow wonderland. Alternatively, for those who prefer an indoor winter vacation, Falls Creek provides spa facilities and fine dining experiences, allowing visitors to appreciate the snow from the comfort of warm and cozy interiors.

Whether you seek a thrilling skiing adventure, a cozy winter retreat by the fireplace, or a serene nature walk, these snow destinations cater to all your desires.

Related article: Family Trips to The Snow

Explore Our Mt Buller Tour departing from Melbourne

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

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