Mount Hotham

Skiing and Snowboarding at the Mount Hotham Ski Resort Mount Hotham ski resort is renowned for its powder snow, challenging terrain, and breathtaking alpine scenery. It is also known for its backcountry skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as its […]

Skiing and Snowboarding at the Mount Hotham Ski Resort

Mount Hotham ski resort is renowned for its powder snow, challenging terrain, and breathtaking alpine scenery. It is also known for its backcountry skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as its excellent après-ski scene.

What Type of Skiing and Snowboarding Experience is Mount Hotham Ski Resort Renowned For?

Mount Hotham ski resort is renowned for its unique and challenging terrain, breathtaking alpine scenery, and reliable snow conditions. Here are some specific features that make Mount Hotham an attractive and unique ski destination:

Terrain: Mount Hotham offers a variety of terrain to suit skiers and snowboarders of all levels, with over 320 hectares of skiable terrain. The resort is particularly known for its challenging off-piste terrain, which includes steep chutes and deep powder runs.
Scenery: Mount Hotham is located in the Victorian Alps, and its alpine scenery is truly breathtaking. The resort’s high elevation and remote location make for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Snow: Mount Hotham is renowned for its consistent snowfall, with an average of 3 meters of snow each season. The resort also has an extensive snowmaking system to ensure reliable conditions throughout the winter.
Accessibility: Mount Hotham is easily accessible by road, with several shuttle services available from nearby towns and cities. The resort also has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly lodges to luxury hotels.
Ski School: Mount Hotham has a comprehensive ski school, with experienced instructors who can help skiers and snowboarders of all levels improve their skills and technique.

What is the Snow Quality like at Mount Hotham Ski Resort?

The snow quality at Mount Hotham ski resort is generally excellent, with dry powder snow that is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The resort also has an extensive snowmaking system to ensure good coverage throughout the season.

The typical season at Mount Hotham ski resort runs from early June to early October, although the exact dates can vary depending on snow conditions. The best time to visit for skiing and snowboarding is usually from July to September, when the snow is at its best.

What Types of Ski Runs Does Mount Hotham Ski Resort Have?

Mount Hotham ski resort offers a variety of ski runs suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. The resort also has three terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts, as well as over 35km of groomed cross-country ski trails.

Beginner and Intermediate skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the variety of groomed runs, including the popular Heavenly Valley and the Cruiser terrain park.

Advanced skiers and snowboarders will find plenty of challenging terrain at Mount Hotham, including steep chutes, deep powder runs, and off-piste skiing. The resort also has a range of terrain parks, including the Summit Terrain Park and the Rail Jam Terrain Park, which offer features for all skill levels.

Mount Hotham is also popular among freeriders and backcountry enthusiasts, with plenty of off-piste terrain accessible from the resort. The resort has a range of guided tours and backcountry services available, making it a great destination for adventurous skiers and snowboarders.

Overall, Mount Hotham provides a good mix of terrain to suit all abilities and interests.

How Many Ski Lifts (and What Type) Does Mount Hotham Ski Resort Have?

Mount Hotham ski resort has a total of 13 ski lifts, including:

3 Quad Chairlifts,

2 Triple Chairlifts,

5 Double Chairlifts,

2 T-Bars, and…

1 Magic Carpet.

The lifts are designed to provide quick and easy access to the resort’s ski runs and facilities.

What Other Features are Available at Mount Hotham Ski Resort?

Mount Hotham ski resort offers a wide range of amenities and features to enhance your skiing and snowboarding experience. Some of these include:

Terrain Park: The resort has a terrain park with features for all skill levels, including jumps, rails, and boxes.
Café and Restaurant: There are several on-mountain cafes and restaurants where you can take a break from skiing and enjoy a meal or a hot drink.
Ski School: The resort offers ski and snowboard lessons for all skill levels, with experienced instructors to help you improve your technique and build your confidence.
Ski Rentals: You can rent ski and snowboard equipment on-site at the resort, with a range of options available to suit your needs and budget.
Lockers: There are lockers available for rent at the resort, where you can store your belongings while you ski.

Where Are the Best Places to Stay When Skiing at Mount Hotham Ski Resort?

Here are ten recommended accommodation options near Mount Hotham ski resort, listed in order from budget-friendly to luxury:

Snowbird Inn – A budget-friendly option located in the heart of the Hotham village, offering affordable lodge-style accommodation.
Arlberg Hotham – A comfortable and affordable hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, located in the Davenport area of Mount Hotham.
Absollut Apartments – Self-contained apartments located in the Hotham village, offering comfortable accommodation for families and groups.
Moritz Apartments – Luxury apartments located in the Hotham village, offering ski-in/ski-out access and a range of amenities.
Hotham Heights Chalets – Self-contained chalets located in the Davenport area of Mount Hotham, offering comfortable accommodation for families and groups.
Dinner Plain Accommodation – A range of self-contained apartments and chalets located in the nearby town of Dinner Plain, offering a quieter alternative to the Hotham village.
Zirky’s – A comfortable hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, located in the Davenport area of Mount Hotham.
The White Room – A boutique hotel located in the Hotham village, offering stylish accommodation and a range of amenities.
Alpine Heights – Luxury apartments located in the Davenport area of Mount Hotham, offering ski-in/ski-out access and a range of amenities.
QT Falls Creek – A luxury hotel located in the nearby town of Falls Creek, offering ski-in/ski-out access and a range of amenities.

Please note that prices and availability may vary depending on the season and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to check with the accommodation provider directly for the most up-to-date information.

Where are the Best Places to Eat When Skiing at Mount Hotham Ski Resort?

Here are ten recommended restaurants and entertainment options near Mount Hotham ski resort, listed in no particular order:

Zirky’s – A popular restaurant and bar located in the Davenport area of Mount Hotham, offering a range of Australian and international cuisine. Suitable for families, couples, and singles.
Snowbird Inn – A budget-friendly option located in the Hotham village, offering a bar and restaurant serving pub-style meals. Suitable for families, couples, and singles.
Swindlers Bar & Restaurant – A popular après ski spot located in the Hotham village, offering a range of pub-style meals and drinks. Suitable for singles and couples.
The General – A casual dining spot located in the Hotham village, offering a range of café-style meals and drinks. Suitable for families, couples, and singles.
The Bird – A cozy restaurant located in the Hotham village, offering a range of modern Australian cuisine. Suitable for couples and singles.
White Spa – A day spa located in the Hotham village, offering a range of treatments and services. Suitable for singles, couples, and families.
The Alpine Nature Experience – A unique outdoor dining experience located in the Davenport area of Mount Hotham, offering a three-course dinner in a heated igloo. Suitable for couples and small groups.
Chill Bar & Café – A casual dining spot located in the Hotham village, offering a range of café-style meals and drinks. Suitable for families, couples, and singles.
The Snow Pony – A modern restaurant located in the Hotham village, offering a range of international cuisine. Suitable for couples and singles.
The White Room – A cozy bar and restaurant located in the Hotham village, offering a range of gourmet meals and drinks. Suitable for couples and singles.

Please note that prices and availability may vary depending on the season and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant or entertainment provider directly for the most up-to-date information.

What are the Best Bars and Entertainment Venues When Skiing at Mount Hotham Ski Resort?

Here are ten recommended bars and entertainment options near Mount Hotham ski resort, listed in no particular order:

The General – A casual bar located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and live music on weekends. Suitable for couples, singles, and families. Website:
Zirky’s – A popular bar and restaurant located in the Davenport area of Mount Hotham, offering a range of drinks and live music on weekends. Suitable for families, couples, and singles. Website:
Swindlers Bar & Restaurant – A popular après ski spot located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and live music on weekends. Suitable for singles and couples. Website:
The Bird – A cozy bar located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and occasional live music. Suitable for couples and singles. Website:
The Snow Pony – A modern bar and restaurant located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and occasional live music. Suitable for couples and singles. Website:
Chill Bar & Café – A casual bar located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and occasional live music. Suitable for families, couples, and singles. Website:
The White Room – A cozy bar and restaurant located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and occasional live music. Suitable for couples and singles. Website:
The Last Run Bar – A casual bar located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and occasional live music. Suitable for families, couples, and singles. Website:
Arco Lodge – A budget-friendly bar and restaurant located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and occasional live music. Suitable for families, couples, and singles. Website:
Schnapps Bar – A popular après ski spot located in the Hotham village, offering a range of drinks and occasional live music. Suitable for singles and couples. Website:

What Are Some Other Things to Do When Skiing At Mount Hotham Ski Resort?

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy when visiting Mount Hotham ski resort. Here are some popular options:

Snowshoeing: Take a break from skiing and explore the surrounding snow-covered wilderness with a guided snowshoe tour. This is a great way to see the area and get some exercise at the same time.
Tobogganing: For a fun activity for the whole family, try tobogganing. You can rent toboggans and sleds at the resort and enjoy a thrilling ride down the gentle slopes.
Cross-country skiing: As mentioned earlier, Mount Hotham has a variety of cross-country ski trails to explore. This is a great way to see the area and enjoy the peace and quiet of the snowy landscape.
Night skiing: If you want to experience skiing in a unique way, try night skiing. The resort offers night skiing on certain runs on Thursday and Saturday nights, giving you a chance to enjoy the slopes under the stars.
Après-ski: After a long day on the slopes, relax and unwind with some après-ski activities. Mount Hotham has a variety of bars, restaurants, and cafes to choose from, as well as spa services for some much-needed relaxation.
Helicopter tours: For an unforgettable experience, take a scenic helicopter tour over the stunning Alpine National Park. This is a great way to see the area from a different perspective and take in the breathtaking views.

Overall, Mount Hotham offers a range of activities to suit all ages and interests, making it a great destination for a winter vacation.

How to Get to Mount Hotham Ski Resort?

Mount Hotham ski resort is located in the Australian Alps, and while it doesn’t have an airport of its own, there are a few different options for getting there from nearby airports, train stations, and bus stations. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular transportation options:

From Melbourne Airport:

By car: The drive from Melbourne Airport to Mount Hotham takes approximately 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can rent a car from the airport or take a taxi or rideshare service.
By bus: There are several bus companies that offer direct transfers from Melbourne Airport to Mount Hotham, including Alpine Spirit Coaches and Hotham Bus.

From Albury Airport:

By car: The drive from Albury Airport to Mount Hotham takes approximately 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can rent a car from the airport or take a taxi or rideshare service.
By bus: There are several bus companies that offer direct transfers from Albury Airport to Mount Hotham, including Alpine Spirit Coaches and Hotham Bus.

From Wangaratta Train Station:

By car: The drive from Wangaratta Train Station to Mount Hotham takes approximately 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can rent a car from the station or take a taxi or rideshare service.
By bus: There are several bus companies that offer direct transfers from Wangaratta Train Station to Mount Hotham, including Alpine Spirit Coaches and Hotham Bus.

From Bright Bus Station:

By car: The drive from Bright Bus Station to Mount Hotham takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can rent a car from the station or take a taxi or rideshare service.
By bus: There are several bus companies that offer direct transfers from Bright Bus Station to Mount Hotham, including Alpine Spirit Coaches and Hotham Bus.

It’s worth noting that road conditions in the Australian Alps can be unpredictable, particularly during winter when snow and ice may be present on the roads.

It’s important to check the weather and road conditions before you set out on your journey, and to make sure you have appropriate snow chains and/or a four-wheel-drive vehicle if necessary.

Mount Hotham ski resort caters to a wide range of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to experts, and offers a variety of terrain and activities to suit all interests and skill levels and is definitely worth a visit.

Share this tour