Tasmania

Tasmania is renowned for its natural beauty and unique terrain, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The region’s slopes are known for their challenging runs, varied terrain, and stunning scenery. Skiing and snowboarding in Tasmania offer visitors a chance to experience some of Australia’s best ski slopes while enjoying the region’s relaxed atmosphere.

How Long is the Ski Season In Tasmania?

The ski season in Tasmania typically runs from late June to early October, with the best snow conditions in July and August. However, this can vary depending on the weather, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest reports before planning your trip. 

The season may be shorter than other popular ski destinations, but the quality of the snow and the stunning views more than make up for it.

What is the Snow Quality like in Tasmania?

The snow quality in Tasmania is generally excellent, with light, dry powder that is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The region’s colder climate means that the snow is of a higher quality than in other parts of Australia, and visitors can expect good snow coverage on the slopes throughout the ski season.

What are the Best Ski Resorts in Tasmania?

There are two main ski resorts in Tasmania: 

• Ben Lomond and 
• Mount Mawson.

Ben Lomond is the larger of the two and is located about 60 km east of Launceston. It features a range of slopes suitable for all levels, with a vertical drop of 400 metres and the longest run measuring 2.5 km. The resort also offers snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Mount Mawson is a smaller resort, located in Mount Field National Park, about 1.5 hours’ drive from Hobart. The resort features a mix of beginner and intermediate slopes, as well as a terrain park for snowboarders. The vertical drop is around 200 metres, and the longest run is 1 km.

Both resorts offer equipment hire and ski lessons for those who need them, and there are plenty of accommodation options nearby. Additionally, visitors can enjoy other winter activities such as snowmobiling, ice-skating, and tobogganing in the region.

What Types of Skier or Snowboarder are the Tasmanian Resorts Renowned for?

Ben Lomond and Mount Mawson cater to all types of skiers and snowboarders. Beginners will find a range of gentle slopes to practice on, while intermediate skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the more challenging terrain. Advanced skiers and snowboarders can test their skills on steeper runs and off-piste areas.

What are the Best Ski schools in Tasmania?

Both Ben Lomond and Mount Mawson offer ski and snowboard lessons for beginners, and there are a variety of ski schools available at each resort. Here are some of the ski schools in Tasmania and their website URLs:

1. Ben Lomond Snow Sports: https://benlomond.org.au/ski-snowboard-school/
2. Ski and Snowboard Tasmania: https://www.skiandsnowboardtasmania.com.au/ski-school/
3. Mount Mawson Ski School: http://www.skimawson.com.au/ski-school/

These schools offer lessons for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Private and group lessons are available, as well as programs specifically designed for children.

Where are the Best Places to Stay When Skiing in Tasmania?

Tasmania offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly lodges. Here are ten recommended options:

1. Cradle Mountain Hotel: https://www.cradlemountainhotel.com.au/
2. Quamby Estate: https://www.quambyestate.com.au/
3. Lenna of Hobart: https://www.lenna.com.au/
4. Grand Chancellor Hobart: https://www.grandchancellorhotels.com/hotel-grand-chancellor-hobart
5. Strahan Village: https://www.strahanvillage.com.au/
6. Wrest Point: https://www.wrestpoint.com.au/
7. Saffire Freycinet: https://saffire-freycinet.com.au/
8. Bay of Fires Lodge: https://www.bayoffires.com.au/lodge/
9. The Henry Jones Art Hotel: https://www.thehenryjones.com/
10. Thousand Lakes Lodge: https://www.thousandlakeslodge.com.au/

Where are the Best Places to Eat When Skiing in Tasmania?

Tasmania is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced produce and world-class restaurants. Here are ten popular dining options:

1. Franklin: https://franklinhobart.com.au/
2. The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery: https://agrariankitcheneatery.com.au/
3. Aloft Restaurant: https://www.aloftrestaurant.com.au/
4. Black Cow Bistro: https://www.blackcowbistro.com.au/
5. Stillwater: https://www.stillwater.com.au/
6. Peacock and Jones: https://www.peacockandjones.com.au/
7. Fico: https://www.ficofico.net/
8. Mures Upper Deck: https://www.mures.com.au/upper-deck/
9. The Source Restaurant: https://www.saffire-freycinet.com.au/dining/
10. Roadhouse Restaurant: https://www.roadhouserestaurant.com.au/

Popular Bars and Entertainment Venues When Skiing in Tasmania

Tasmania has a lively bar scene, with a range of options to suit all tastes. Here are ten popular bars:

1. The Den: https://www.facebook.com/thedenhobart/
2. Preachers: https://www.preachers.com.au/
3. Gold Bar: https://www.goldbarhobart.com.au/
4. Tom McHugo’s Hobart Hotel: https://www.facebook.com/tommchugos/
5. Society Salamanca: https://www.societysalamanca.com.au/
6. Republic Bar & Cafe: https://republicbar.com/
7. The Brunswick Hotel: https://www.brunswickhotelhobart.com.au/
8. T-Bone Brewing Co.: https://www.tbonebrewing.com.au/
9. The Winston: https://www.facebook.com/The-Winston-179919922061825/
10. Ettie’s: https://www.etties.com.au/

These bars offer a range of entertainment options, from live music to cocktails and craft beer. They are suitable for singles, couples, and families.

Other Things To Do When Skiing in Tasmania:

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Tasmania offers a range of other tourist attractions and entertainment options. Here are a few options:

1. MONA (Museum of Old and New Art): https://mona.net.au/
2. Port Arthur Historic Site: https://portarthur.org.au/
3. Bruny Island: https://brunyisland.org.au/
4. Salamanca Market: https://www.salamanca.com.au/
5. Freycinet National Park: https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/freycinet-national-park
6. Cradle Mountain: https://www.parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/cradle-mountain

How to Get to Tasmania?

The best way to get to Tasmania for skiing and snowboarding is by flying into Hobart or Launceston airport. Both airports have connections to major cities in Australia, such as Sydney and Melbourne. There are also flights available from New Zealand.

From Hobart or Launceston, you can rent a car to travel to the ski resorts or take a shuttle bus. The most popular shuttle bus service is the Mt. Field Ski Bus, which runs from Hobart to Mt. Field National Park.

Here are some useful transportation websites:

1. Hobart Airport: https://www.hobartairport.com.au/
2. Launceston Airport: https://www.launcestonairport.com.au/
3. Mt. Field Ski Bus: https://mtfieldskibus.com.au/
4. Car rental options: https://www.hertz.com.au/p/car-rental/australia/tasmania
5. Public transportation information: https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/passenger/public_transport

Overall, Tasmania is a unique and exciting destination for skiing and snowboarding, offering stunning scenery, high-quality snow, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in Tasmania’s ski resorts.