Australia may be known for its sunny beaches and warm weather, but it also offers an array of winter holiday destinations that provide a cozy, snowy retreat during the colder months. From skiing and snowboarding to scenic escapes in lush rainforests, Australia’s diverse landscapes come to life in winter. Whether you’re looking for an active winter vacation or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of options to choose from. This article will explore 15 of the best Australian winter holiday destinations that should be on your radar.
15 Unforgettable Australian Winter Getaways You Must Experience
1. Thredbo, New South Wales
Thredbo is one of the most popular ski resorts in Australia, located in the Snowy Mountains. With a fantastic range of snow activities, including skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and snowshoeing, Thredbo offers something for everyone. The resort boasts some of the longest ski runs in Australia, and its charming alpine village is filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and excellent dining options. The area is also perfect for those who enjoy après-ski activities, such as live music and events, making Thredbo an ideal winter destination for both adventure seekers and those wanting to relax in a vibrant atmosphere.
Things to Do in Thredbo:
Skiing and snowboarding
Scenic chairlift rides with panoramic mountain views
Snowshoeing and tobogganing
Explore the village’s lively restaurants and bars
Take a scenic hike to the top of Mount Kosciuszko
2. Perisher, New South Wales
As one of the largest ski resorts in the Southern Hemisphere, Perisher offers an impressive 1,245 hectares of skiable terrain. Located in the Snowy Mountains, Perisher is known for its diverse range of slopes, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort also offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobile tours. In addition to the slopes, the nearby area is home to stunning snow-covered forests, making Perisher an ideal place for a winter wonderland experience.
Things to Do in Perisher:
Skiing and snowboarding across the extensive slopes
Snowmobiling tours through the snow-covered forests
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Après-ski dining and live entertainment in the village
Scenic walks through the national park
3. Mount Buller, Victoria
Located just a few hours’ drive from Melbourne, Mount Buller is a convenient and popular winter destination for those looking to escape to the snow. This alpine resort is known for its excellent ski slopes, making it an ideal place for winter sports enthusiasts. Apart from skiing and snowboarding, Mount Buller offers snowshoeing, tobogganing, and even snow tubing. The resort village features luxurious accommodations, high-end restaurants, and après-ski options, making it a great place for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Things to Do in Mount Buller:
Skiing and snowboarding on well-maintained runs
Snowshoeing through alpine terrain
Relaxing in luxurious spa resorts
Dining at mountain-view restaurants
Taking scenic chairlift rides
4. Lake Mountain, Victoria
For those looking for a peaceful winter escape, Lake Mountain, located just 120 kilometers from Melbourne, is a perfect choice. The resort is known for its cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, making it ideal for visitors who enjoy tranquil winter activities. The area is also great for families, with dedicated tobogganing areas for kids. If you’re not into skiing, you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the snow-covered landscape or indulge in a cozy cabin retreat.
Things to Do in Lake Mountain:
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Tobogganing with family-friendly slopes
Snowplay and building snowmen
Scenic walking trails in the snow
Relaxing at charming alpine cottages
5. Mount Hotham, Victoria
Mount Hotham, often referred to as the “powder capital” of Australia, is renowned for its excellent snow conditions and diverse ski terrain. With a range of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, it is an excellent destination for both beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts. Apart from the slopes, Mount Hotham offers a variety of winter activities, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and tobogganing. Its beautiful alpine village is filled with luxurious accommodations, restaurants, and spas, making it a wonderful location for a cozy getaway.
Things to Do in Mount Hotham:
Skiing and snowboarding on powdery slopes
Snowmobiling adventures
Snowshoeing and tobogganing
Après-ski dining and entertainment
Relaxing in a luxury spa
6. Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
For those who enjoy a winter retreat that combines natural beauty with outdoor activities, Cradle Mountain in Tasmania is a top choice. The region is famous for its rugged mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. While it’s not a traditional ski resort, Cradle Mountain is ideal for winter hikes, photography, and wildlife viewing. The area offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and a variety of scenic walking trails that are even more magical in the snow. Cradle Mountain is perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness and experience a quiet, reflective winter holiday.
Things to Do in Cradle Mountain:
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Winter hiking along scenic trails
Wildlife spotting (spot Tasmanian devils and wombats)
Photography of snow-covered peaks and lakes
Stay at a cozy lodge surrounded by nature
7. Jindabyne, New South Wales
Jindabyne is a charming town located near the Snowy Mountains and serves as a gateway to several ski resorts, including Thredbo and Perisher. It’s a great destination for those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, as the town is full of cozy accommodations and local eateries. While Jindabyne itself doesn’t have slopes, it offers easy access to skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. Additionally, Jindabyne is ideal for snowshoeing, hiking, and ice fishing during winter months.
Things to Do in Jindabyne:
Skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts
Snowshoeing and ice fishing
Dining and shopping in the town center
Snowmobile tours and scenic drives around Lake Jindabyne
Exploring the Snowy Mountains
8. Falls Creek, Victoria
Falls Creek, located in the Victorian Alps, is known for its picturesque alpine village and excellent snow conditions. The resort offers a great selection of slopes for skiing and snowboarding, as well as snowshoeing and tobogganing. The village features cozy accommodations, lively après-ski spots, and a range of dining options. Falls Creek is especially popular with families and beginners due to its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained beginner slopes.
Things to Do in Falls Creek:
Skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels
Snowshoeing and tobogganing
Relaxing at spa resorts and mountain lodges
Après-ski dining and entertainment
Scenic chairlift rides and walking trails
9. The Blue Mountains, New South Wales
While the Blue Mountains may not be known for snow activities, its winter charm lies in its crisp, cool air and spectacular winter views. The region is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience a peaceful winter retreat. The Blue Mountains offers numerous bushwalking trails that are even more beautiful with a dusting of snow. It’s an excellent destination for winter photography, nature lovers, and those seeking a quieter experience.
Things to Do in the Blue Mountains:
Explore the scenic bushwalking trails
Winter photography of the snow-covered landscape
Visit the famous Three Sisters rock formation
Explore quaint villages such as Leura and Katoomba
Stay in cozy mountain lodges
10. Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
The Snowy Mountains region is home to some of the best ski resorts in Australia, including Thredbo, Perisher, and Charlotte Pass. This area offers a wide range of winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding. The Snowy Mountains also offer stunning scenery, including alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and expansive snowfields, making it a great destination for winter photography and outdoor adventure.
Things to Do in the Snowy Mountains:
Skiing and snowboarding
Snowshoeing and snowmobiling
Dog sledding tours
Winter photography and sightseeing
Scenic walks through national parks
11. Mount Buffalo, Victoria
Mount Buffalo is a hidden gem in Victoria’s alpine region, offering a quieter and more intimate winter experience compared to some of the larger resorts. The area features breathtaking landscapes, rugged cliffs, and snow-covered forests. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, tobogganing, and winter hiking. Mount Buffalo is also home to several scenic lookouts, where visitors can take in the stunning winter views over the surrounding valleys.
Things to Do in Mount Buffalo:
Snowshoeing and winter hiking
Tobogganing and snow play
Visit the famous Mount Buffalo Gorge
Scenic lookouts and photography
Stay at rustic alpine cabins
12. Queenstown, Tasmania
Queenstown, located in Tasmania’s west, is known for its rugged wilderness, historical charm, and dramatic winter landscapes. Though not a traditional ski resort, the area offers a unique winter experience with its snow-covered mountains, rainforest walks, and old-world charm. Queenstown is perfect for those looking to explore Tasmania’s wilderness and enjoy the tranquillity of a remote winter getaway.
Things to Do in Queenstown:
Explore the surrounding wilderness
Winter hikes through the rainforest
Visit the historic mining town and museum
Photography of snow-covered landscapes and mountains
Stay in cozy heritage-style accommodation
13. Kiama, New South Wales
While Kiama may be better known for its summer beaches, it’s an excellent winter destination too, offering stunning coastal views and cool winter breezes. The area is perfect for a relaxing winter retreat, with scenic coastal walks and breathtaking cliff views. Visitors can also enjoy local cafes, boutique shops, and the famous Kiama Blowhole.
Things to Do in Kiama:
Winter coastal walks and hiking
Visit the Kiama Blowhole
Enjoy local cafes and restaurants
Stay in waterfront accommodation
Explore nearby seaside villages
14. Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Kangaroo Island is a top winter destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. During winter, the island offers fewer tourists and a serene atmosphere. You can witness the island’s abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and seals, in their natural winter habitats. The cooler temperatures also make it perfect for scenic drives, bushwalking, and exploring the island’s beautiful coastline.
Things to Do in Kangaroo Island:
Winter wildlife watching (kangaroos, koalas, and seals)
Bushwalking and hiking in national parks
Scenic drives around the island
Visit the Flinders Chase National Park
Explore the island’s rugged beaches and cliffs
15. The Grampians, Victoria
The Grampians National Park is a stunning winter destination, offering majestic mountain views, dramatic cliffs, and pristine nature reserves. While there are no ski resorts in the region, the park’s diverse trails make it ideal for winter hiking and wildlife spotting. The cooler weather adds to the park’s appeal, as the landscape comes to life with misty mornings and clear, crisp days.
Things to Do in the Grampians:
Winter hiking and bushwalking
Wildlife spotting (kangaroos, emus, and birdwatching)
Visit the spectacular MacKenzie Falls
Scenic drives through the national park
Relaxing in cozy lodge accommodations
Conclusion
Australia may be more famous for its beaches and warm climate, but during winter, the country offers a diverse range of destinations perfect for a cozy and adventurous getaway. From the ski slopes of Thredbo and Perisher to the rugged wilderness of Cradle Mountain and Kangaroo Island, each destination offers unique experiences. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping activities or a peaceful retreat in nature, there is no shortage of options for the perfect Australian winter holiday.
By choosing any of the destinations above, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable winter adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse countries.
