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FIRSTTIMER’SGUIDE

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INTRODUCTION

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At Snow Victoria, we know that first time visitors to the snow have a lot of questions before they hit the mountain resorts.

Whether you’re concerned about when to go, what to pack, road and weather conditions, what type of gear you should have, what to do when you arrive, this guide has been prepared especially for you.

Here you’ll find tips to help you plan your trip, so you can enjoy the best possible snow experience with your family or friends.

The information included specifically cover the resorts of Mt Hotham, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Mt Buller, Mt Stirling, Lake Mountain and Mt Baw Baw. Other snow-covered mountains around the state such as Mt Buffalo and Donna Bouang, are considered National Parks.

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WHENshould I go?

The snow season runs from the Queen’s Birthday weekend in June until the end of September, sometimes the snow gods are running late and the snow arrives after the opening.

The resorts are very sophisticated and all of them have state-of-the-art snowmaking infrastructure to ensure there is plenty of white stuff on the ground to enjoy. Snow made by snowmaking is exactly the same as real snow and they just need the right temperature to fire up the guns. The resorts can make a huge amount every night and it’s ideal for learning to ski or snowboard on.

Early season and springtime (September) are excellent times to visit as there are loads of great deals that are very price competitive. Midweek throughout the season (except for school holidays) is another perfect time to visit as accommodation is normally cheaper and there are fewer people on the mountain.

Of course if you can’t go midweek, then weekends are also fun. You could even take an extended weekend as you can progress a lot in three days if you wanted to try skiing or snowboarding.

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From Melbourne, Lake Mountain is the closest resort at just 120km, Mt Baw Baw is a about a two hour drive, while Mt Buller and the adjacent Mt Stirling are around three hours. To visit Falls Creek, Hotham and Dinner Plain the journey is a little longer at about four and a half hours.

If you are planning on just a day trip from Melbourne then Lake Mountain offers snow play and cross-country skiing, while Mt Buller and Mt Baw Baw offer snow play plus skiing and snowboarding.

THERE ARE SEVEN RESORTS IN VICTORIA AND THEY ARE JUST A ROAD TRIP FROM THE NEARBY CITIES OF MELBOURNE AND ALBURY. IF YOU’RE DRIVING FROM SYDNEY, THE TRIP TO THE RESORTS WILL BE 7 HOURS PLUS.

If you are day tripping from Albury, then Hotham and Falls Creek are a better option with great skiing, snowboarding plus snow play and only a two-hour drive.

All of the resorts except Lake Mountain offer the amazing “village in the snow” experience, where you can stay overnight and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland.

Check the website snowvictoria.com for more detailed information on the resorts.

WHICH RESORTshould I visit?

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WHAT TOWEAR & PACKAdults & kids

WHEN DRESSING FOR COLD WEATHER, IT'S ALWAYS BEST TO DRESS IN LAYERS TO INSULATE YOURSELF FROM COLD TEMPERATURES. AS YOUR ACTIVITIES INCREASE AND IF YOU START SKIING OR SNOWBOARDING, YOU'LL MOST LIKELY WARM UP AND WANT TO PEEL OFF SOME LAYERS.

WHAT TO WEAR

Dressing in layers also helps to manage the variance with weather conditions, when it’s cold you will get a better result with more thin layers as opposed to a few heavy and thick clothing items. There are many quality products available that are extremely warm, thin and not expensive.

The same applies for kids, as you will most likely dress them in a similar manner to what you’re comfortable in.

If you are staying overnight, you’ll want to make sure you pack extra clothing for non-snow activities, for going out to eat or just hanging around the accommodation.

For kids, make sure you label all their equipment and clothing in case they loose something.

Some resorts even have a swimming pool or Onsen (hot baths), so you may need to take your bathers as well.

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GEAR FOR THE SNOW

• Shoes or boots that are waterproof with good tread for walking in snow

• Base layers like thermal underwear

• Warm long socks and a beanie

• A warm top like fleece

• Sunglasses or goggles (for skiing and snow boarding you will need to buy or borrow some goggles)

• Sunscreen and lip balm

• Day Backpack

• Pants, gloves and a jacket that are water-resistant

• Ski / Snowboard helmet (for skiing and snowboarding, mandatory for children)

Waterproof clothing, snow boots and helmets are available for hire at the resorts, so check your resort destination to see what items can be obtained once you arrive.You will need to buy or borrow gloves and goggles, as you can’t hire these. Some stores in cities and tours also have clothing you can hire before you go.

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You may want to purchase your own snow clothing gear and there are plenty of options available; you could visit a ski shop, head to a discount store, a big sport shops, army disposals or purchase online. You can easily accommodate your budget and most people start with a waterproof jacket, pants, gloves and goggles.

Or a better option may be to rent some of your gear in order to save money and after you have decided that you like snow sports, you

hire or buy?could then buy your own gear. That way you can try out different things so you can discover exactly what works and what is comfortable for you.

Snow sports equipment like skis, snowboards and helmets are available for hire at the resorts, ski hire shops or towns along the way. Other gear like gloves and goggles are not. It’s important to check with the specific resort you visit to see what types of clothing and equipment are available.

THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT FOR SKIING & BOARDING

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For staying overnight, each resort has its own unique styles and options to fit your every need and budget.

Depending on your preference, you can choose from an apartment or chalet living to a more hotel-like atmosphere or a shared lodge style.Apartments are great; they are generally ski in and ski out, have plenty of space and provide kitchens and lounge areas with all of the modern amenities to make you feel more at home.

You can make it cost effective by sharing with another family or getting a group of six to eight friends together to rent one.

Couples can indulge in more of a hotel style that offers fine dining and spa-like amenities for you to relax and unwind in luxury.

Lodges are a great alternative option and are normally very cost effective, some offer four

ACCOMMODATIONto a room in a bunk style with an en-suite, some are two to a room and some you will have to share the bathroom.

The fun thing about a lodge is the common kitchen and lounge/dining areas, you get to meet and socialise with others that have snow as the common passion. Lodge members love to share their knowledge and can certainly make your stay an enjoyable one.

Some people choose to stay off mountain in a nearby town and drive to the resort instead; this option will quite often be cheaper yet still offer a good choice of accommodation, activities and eating establishments.

Check out our range of packages on the website and then contact the resort booking office, they have a team of experts who can walk you through the options and the available package deals that are best suited to your tastes and budget.

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GETTING THEREsafe & sound

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Doing a little bit of planning ahead of time will help you to determine the best and safest choice for your trip.

Below are some of the travel options available and you can check our “getting there map” to help you plan your route.

TRAVEL OPTIONS

AIR

Some resorts like Hotham and Falls Creek are a little further away and you may prefer traveling by plane to Albury airport. Although this is a faster option, once you land you will still need to rent a car and drive for two hours or catch a bus to reach the resort.

BUS

All resorts offer bus services to their location and will take you right to the village where you will then need to get transport to your accommodation. You can also drive and leave your car at the bottom of the mountain and then take the bus up to the resort. Check with your specific destination to see bus times and details so you can plan accordingly. This is a great way to visit the resorts because it is hassle free and all you have to worry about is yourself and your family or friends – no need for chains, parking costs or resort entry ticket, as this is included in your bus ticket.

CAR

Most skiers choose to drive directly to the resort, but it’s important to check weather and road conditions prior to leaving. You should plan on having chains when driving through the mountains, as the resorts require you to have them by law, even if you have a 4wd- you may not need to use chains, however you still have to have them in the car.

You can hire chains from any ski hire shop and some petrol stations. Some resorts will also offer chains for hire as well as chain fitting services but it’s best to check ahead of time so you’re not caught without them.

If you do decide to drive, make sure you include the following items in your car for maximum safety and protection:

• Chains (you must have diamond pattern chains for Hotham)

• Anti-freeze if needed, need to check this• Windscreen de-icing scraper• Torch• Shovel • Jacket• Beanie• Gloves• A mat to place on the snow for fitting chains• Towel to clean your hands or gloves after

fitting chains• Water

HOW YOU GET TO YOUR VICTORIA SNOW DESTINATION WILL DEPEND ON A FEW FACTORS. ONE IS THE ACTUAL DESTINATION YOU CHOOSE AND THE OTHER IS WHERE YOU ARE LOCATED IN RELATION TO THE RESORT.

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It’s also important that you ensure your vehicle is in good working order prior to heading to your resort destination. Always make sure to check the condition of the following:

• Vehicle battery • Heater• Windscreen wipers• Brakes• Tires• If you have a diesel engine, make sure you

fill up with alpine diesel at the bottom of the mountain, you need at least 50% in your tank, so plan ahead

YOURcar

THERE ARE NO PETROL STATIONS ON THE MOUNTAIN SO YOU WILL NEED TO HAVE A FULL TANK OF FUEL PRIOR TO HEADING UP TO THE RESORT, BUT THERE ARE PLENTY OF PETROL STATIONS LOCATED AT THE NEARBY TOWNS TO THE RESORTS.

Planning your trip ahead of time can make a world of difference when it comes to you and your family’s safety. Take time to make the necessary preparations and ensure you will arrive safely and ready to enjoy your trip!

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If you are travelling by car, there are some great towns to have a meal or a break along the way and even some fun activities if you want to make a day of it, so do a little research and make it a more enjoyable journey.

MANSFIELD FOR MT BULLER & MT STIRLING

If you are heading to Mt Buller then Mansfield is an ideal place to stop, this sub alpine town offers an amazing selection of cafés, bakeries and fine dining opportunities that feature the local produce and wines, why not settle in and discover the local culinary scene for yourself.

MT BEAUTY FOR FALLS CREEK

Experience real alpine village life in Mount Beauty, which lives up to its name from its prime location at the foot of Mount Bogong, Victoria’s highest mountain. Very tasty local produce served up at the town’s cafés, bakery and restaurants,

ALONG THEjourneyBRIGHT FOR HOTHAM & DINNER PLAIN

A gastronome’s dream come true, Bright has many good restaurants and cafés, including several in The Age Good Food Guide. Local produce abound, several great cool climate wineries and a boutique brewery add to the mix for tasting.

NOOJEE FOR MT BAW BAW

Enjoy country-style fare and exquisite homemade cakes at The Red Parrot Café or enjoy bistro meals for the family at The Outpost and Noojee Hotel.

MARYSVILLE FOR LAKE MOUNTAIN

The Yarra Valley and Murrindindi regions are home to some of the best gourmet produce and award winning boutique wines. Local restaurants, pubs and cafés showcase local trout, salmon and beef, olives and olive oils, fresh vegetables, cheeses and caviar. Boutique beers, ciders and wines feature on the menus, with local coffee ground fresh daily.

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As you arrive at your destination, you will want to be aware of the resort’s specific requirements for entry.

• Gate Entry – You will be required to pay an entry fee based on your length of stay. These can be purchased at the resort entry gates or some resorts only allow purchases online for your convenience as well as to avoid waiting in long queues upon your arrival.

• Parking – Your resort will have its own designated areas for parking whether you are there for just the day, 24 hours or for an extended number of days. Obey the resort’s signs as failure to comply could result in an enforceable parking infringement.

• When you stay overnight – You will normally back your car in for easy exit. Make sure you pull your wipers up so they don’t get frozen to the windscreen.

• Getting to my accommodation or slopes – Resorts normally designate specific parking

WHEN YOUarriveareas that may be away from the village, the slopes or your accommodations, you will want to be aware of how to get around. The resorts provide a variety of accommodation transfers, free shuttles, and taxi services for your convenience. Check with your destination for specific options and pricing.

Knowing what to expect before you arrive at the resort can help prevent any unwanted surprises as well as save you time and money.

GATE ENTRY LINKSMt Buller: www.mtbuller.com.au/Winter/Resort-Info/Resort-Entry-Prices2Mt Stirling: www.mtstirling.com.au/gate_entry.phpFalls Creek: www.fallscreek.com.au/ResortEntryHotham: www.mthotham.com.au/plan-my-trip/travel-to-hotham/resort-entry/Mt Baw Baw: www.mountbawbaw.com.au/winter/resort-entry/Lake Mountain: www.lakemountainresort.com.au/visitor-info/prices-and-packages

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When you arrive at the gate or information centre, the mountain staff will provide you with a map for the village and a trail map for the ski area or in the case of Lake Mountain which does not offer on-accommodation, the cross-country trails.

The maps are also downloadable from the snowvictoria.com website and from the resort websites.

GETTING AROUNDVillage Map & Trail Map

These will be very useful for your understanding how the village and ski area is set out, where the parking is, your accommodation, snow play areas, services and the key facilities are.

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• Supermarket or general store – located at most resorts with generous hours so you can buy all of your necessities while holidaying. Find fresh produce, liquor and other groceries to make your stay that much more enjoyable.

• Medical – resorts have medical staff on hand to handle any injuries from snow activities through to general health issues.

Resorts also offer ATMs and plenty of shopping to buy gear and resort merchandise. You’ll also find plenty of eating establishments to please any palate.

Sometimes when you’re far away from home, it’s hard to relax if you think you’ll be without the conveniences you’re used to. That’s why the resorts offer you a “home away from home” feeling with the following services.

SERVICES

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At most resort destinations, you can choose from:

The resorts offer a wide variety of cuisine styles that will suit all tastes and budgets.

EATING OUT& NightlifeWHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A COZY EVENING FOR TWO, A FAMILY NIGHT OUT, OR A FUN TRIP TO THE BAR WITH FRIENDS, YOU CAN FIND A HUGE ARRAY OF CHOICE AT A SNOW VICTORIA RESORT.

BARS

CAFÉS

FINE DINING

ON MOUNTAIN CAFÉS AND RESTAURANTS FOR WHEN YOU ARE SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING

RESTAURANTS

FAMILY DINING

LATE NIGHT VENUES INCLUDING LIVE MUSIC

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You can choose from:

• Tobogganing • Sled Dog Tours• Scenic Chairlift Tours• Snow Tubing

Check with the resort of your choice to find out which specific activities are available and if there are lessons or other activities related to them.

There are normally designated areas for these activities and you can check the village map to find out where they are.

Plenty of visitors don’t always try skiing or snowboarding on their first visit, the good news is the resorts offer plenty of other snow activities to keep you entertained.

• Snow Shoeing• Snow Biking• Snowmobiling• Just playing in the snow and building a

snowman

SNOW PLAYActivities

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SKIING &SNOWBOARDING

should you skior snowboard?

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There are plenty of reasons to take up either one of these exhilarating and fun sports, but it really comes down to what you’re most comfortable with or what gets you more excited. Both sports will give you a huge rush and loads of fun, if you’ve skated or surfed before, you might feel more at home on a snowboard.

On the other hand, if you’ve never tried any snow sports and you feel unsteady with your snow legs, you might be more at ease with ski poles to help keep you steady.

But, don’t forget, it doesn’t have to be one or the other, try them both and see which you enjoy the most. The general notion is that

It’s the question that everyone will offer an

opinion on.

although snowboarding is easier to pick up initially, your skill level will plateau sooner and it may take a while for you to push beyond that barrier. Yet, while skiing might take a little more work initially, once you reach an intermediate level, you’ll improve fairly rapidly.

As soon as you can turn and stop, you are on your path to exploring the mountain and that is where the real fun starts.

Taking lessons is a must as the instructors not only teach you, but also show you around the mountain and introduce you to the right terrain and runs for your level.

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LESSONS TO HELP YOU GET IT RIGHTfor adults & kids

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Regardless of your level, each resort has skilled instructors to help you get started or progress you to the next level with skiing, snowboarding or cross-country skiing.

Instructors at the Victorian resorts are qualified to a world standard and receive continuous on-going training to ensure you get the best lessons possible.

The resorts all offer very affordable options and deals to get started and have fantastic programs for the kids, where they are learning in a fun environment with other kids their age.

Kids’ programs normally run for a full day with lunch included, or a half-day and have

special designated learning areas both outside and inside.The adult lessons are normally done in a group style and last between one and a half to two hours or you can also choose a private lesson, which are more personalised.

You can share a private lesson with two or three people, but it’s important to ensure they are at a similar level.

Groups are fun to join as you get to meet and interact with other skiers or snowboarders, and if you take a few days of lessons you will all progress together and share the highlights.

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Besides having snowball fights and making snow angels, the resorts have plenty of fun in store for the little ones, plus some exciting characters to meet and even a weekly show like Pete the Dragon at Falls Creek.

Some resorts also offer day care and babysitting services so you can enjoy the slopes (without worry) knowing your children are still having fun.

FUN STUFFfor the kids

SKIING IS A FUN AND EXHILARATING ACTIVITY FOR KIDS BUT SOME MAY TIRE MORE EASILY OR WANT TO PARTICIPATE IN OTHER ACTIVITIES.

Check with the resort of your choice for kids specific events and childcare services. You may need to book an appointment for these services so check with the resort prior to arriving.

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If you plan on trying skiing or snowboarding you will eventually need to ride the lift and therefore have to purchase a lift pass.

If you are just getting started, you can purchase a beginner’s lift and lesson pass or a lift lesson and equipment hire package. These are designed with the beginner in mind and are very cost effective.

If you have purchased a package deal with accommodation, you can normally opt for lessons, lift and equipment to be included, this normally makes it very affordable.

LIFT passesIf you are a tertiary student, then there are some great discounts available.

Once you have passed the beginners level and are ready to explore most of the mountain, you will need to upgrade to a lift pass that offers all of the lifts.

Lift passes have become more technologically advanced in recent years, you can purchase them online saving you both time and money, they look like a credit card, sit in your pocket and are scanned each time you go on a lift.

You also have the option to purchase half day passes, which allow you to do other things during your day.

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In addition to partaking in delicious dining and enjoying the night life at the resorts, each of them have a variety of activities designed for individuals or the whole family that don’t involve being on the snow.

Whether you just want to relax or simply taking a break from the slopes, you can enjoy being at the resort and feel like you’re on a very special holiday.

Some non snow-related activities include:

SO MUCHto do• Special Events• Shopping• Movie nights• Tours• Museums• Shows• Day Spa or Sauna• Gym

As always, check with the resort for availability, times, pricing, and schedules of special events.

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Skiing and snowboarding can be an expensive sport, but you really don’t need to have a lot of money to enjoy it, plan ahead and shop around for the best deals and special promotions on offer.

You can also save money by visiting later in the season or going midweek, you’ll also benefit from fewer crowds on the slopes.

VISITINGTHE RESORTon a budget

MOST PEOPLE THINK THAT VISITING A RESORT IS EXPENSIVE, BUT THERE ARE SO MANY OPTIONS AND SO MUCH INFORMATION AVAILABLE, ONLINE RESEARCH WILL BE YOUR BEST FRIEND HERE.

Check with the Snow Victoria packages that offer free nights, Kids Stay Free, entry included and special accommodation rates. We want to encourage new visitors to the experience a snow holiday, so a lot of our packages are all inclusive, so you don’t have to do the hard job of organising your trip.

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SNOWOLOGY

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The glorious white stuff all around you when it first falls. There are many different descriptions for the types of powder you may encounter, such as

broken powder and Champagne powder, but let’s just stick to the basics for now.

This is where you combine a left turn and right turn. If you keep doing this, then you are linking turns and really skiing or riding the slope - what a feeling!

Being the first out onto the slopes to make the first tracks in the “untouched” snow.

Snow that has been groomed by machines known as snowcats and great fun when untouched by the day’s first skiers and boarders.

The first move skiers learn. It involves bringing the two points of your skis together to form a wedge or triangle. This pushes the edges into the snow to

stop you or to help you turn, depending on your skill level!

POWDER

SNOWPLOW

LINKING TURNS

GROOMED CONDITIONS

FIRST TRACKS

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