Coolest snow stays in Australia's ski fields revealed

Planning a snow holiday in Australia? You really should consider these cool, chic and crazy accommodation options. From lovely lodges to all-in resorts. From old favourites to hip hotels.

1. The hipster – St Falls Resort, Falls Creek

Jacuzzi QT Falls Creek. — Jacuzzi view: St Falls Resort, Falls Creek.

Amazing hot tub vistas of Falls Creek ski runs and the surrounding Kiewa Valley from your private balcony? Sure. All of St Falls Creek’s 1, 2 and 3 bedroomed apartments sport funky chic Scandi décor, but the multi en-suited penthouse is the one to aim for – one of the most sought-after alpine accommodation options in Australia. St Falls Resort (previously QT Falls) is on the cusp of the resort’s lift system, has downstairs ski lockers and the seasonal fare at in-house 1550 Restaurant is as good as anywhere on the slopes.

Before you book: Internet is free (and it’s fast).

2. Chalet par excellence – Rockpool Lodge, Thredbo

Rockpool Lodge ski chalet Thredbo — Australia’s best ski chalet? Rockpool Lodge, Thredbo

An intimate chalet in an exquisitely secluded setting in Thredbo village, Rockpool Lodge (no relation to the Sydney restaurant) recently scored ‘Australia’s Best Ski Chalet’ at the World Ski Awards. A treat for small groups or families (free Wi-Fi and linen et al supplied), the two-bedroom, three-floor layout comes complete with the almost mandatory stone wood fireplace to dry yourself in front of after a day on the mountain or post float in the Jacuzzi…

Before you book: As with many snow lodges, expect a minimum stay – between three and seven nights, depending seasonal demand.

3. The alpine dream stay – The Buckland, near Bright

Nestled close to Mt Buffalo, near the Victorian town of Bright, splash-out palace The Buckland private retreat embodies alpine-style decadence without seeming to try too hard. The five cabins all exude a small-scale attention to detail; they are tastily decorated and replete with cosy goose down bed linen, free-standing baths, L’Occitane toiletries and High Country views that just don’t quit from almost every vantage point. Post-ski pamper? Light the fire while you wait for your in-room masseuse to arrive…

Before you book: It’s a bit of drive to the big Victorian resorts (about 30km to the closest, Mt Buller), but you will forget the distance once you’re ‘home’. Oh, book well ahead!

4. Old-world cosy cottages – Moonbah Hut, near Jindabyne

The well-appointed Moonbah Hut (s) (there are actually two, the Lake and River Hut) have nailed that rustic cattleman’s-hut vibe, despite the fact they were actually built in 2003 (as replicas). Think luxe bedding, cushy robes, open fires and underfloor heating. The River Hut, on the banks of the Moonbah River, is perhaps the pick of the pair with its traditional claw foot bath, wrought iron beds, 80-year-old wood stove and foodie-friendly (more spacious) kitchen. They are planted on 250 acres of winter wonderland with plenty of scope for snowman engineering or just staring out into the countryside, wine in hand. Equally good place to spend a summer long weekend…

Before you book: Located 15 minutes’ drive out of Jindabyne, its’ a fair trip every day to Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte’s Pass or Selwyn. Yes, it’s delightfully remote but proudly so offering “no television reception or PlayStations". Thank God.

5. Action stations – Huski, Falls Creek

Huski apartments Falls Creek. — Huski – all-inclusive and as central as you can get in Falls Creek.

Not quite as hip as its Falls neighbour St Falls Resort, but the strikingly angular Huski is one of those solid all-inclusive self-contained places (14 apartments) that bleeds a sometimes energetic, sometimes laid-back atmosphere, a specialty of Australia’s snowfields. The four-bedroom, four-bathroom split-level penthouse (maximum 10 people) has all the homely creature comforts to make your ski holiday effortless: laundry facilities, drying cupboards, Bose bluetooth speaker, free wireless and Apple TV. Hot tub and heated marble floors will do the rest…

Before you book: Bottom-floor apartments can get a little too involved in the après ski atmosphere so opt for upper floors if you need absolute zen.

6. The all-in-one – Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa

Novotel Lake Crackenback is ideal for those who like their ski holidays all-inclusive and who appreciate an out-of-town lakeside ambience (check out the website for deals that include brekky, ski hire, lift tickets etc, especially for families). The resort can seem a little isolated (it’s on the border of Kosciuszko National Park, 20km on the snow-side of Jindabyne), but the Thredbo Valley views and ample amenities (the highlight of which is the Waterlily Collection-stocked Spa & Wellness Centre) should more than compensate. Despite a largish collection of apartments and chalet options, Crackenback maintains a relatively peaceful ‘un-resortish’ atmosphere…

Before you book: Thredbo is a 15-minute drive by car (add national park entrance fee) and 800m (along a private road) from the Skitube to Perisher – complimentary shuttle bus during winter. Note: firewood for the rooms costs $25 a bag.

7. Euro kitsch – Hotel Pension Grimus, Mt Buller

Austrian kitsch Hotel Pension Grimus Mt Buller — Austrian kitsch: Hotel Pension Grimus, Mt Buller.

This Mt Buller icon (yes, it’s been there that long) is all about its family-run atmosphere and the Austrian-Tyrolean style architecture. Built by owner Hans Grimus in the 1970s, the hotel (or is it a pension?) is spacious, almost as central as you get to Mt Buller’s ski facilities and revels in its Euro-style fireplaced kitschy cosiness. Grimus staff love to get involved too – expect to share the odd belt of schnapps with them…

Before you book: Don’t expect the latest modernist fittings – this is old-school Austrian-Australian ski field chic. Note: Grimus has one of the best ski centres around for all your hiring requirements.

8. For the adventurous – Alpine Winter Camp, Mt Stirling

Warning: the Alpine Winter Camp is for adventurous souls who like to get out among the snow gums. Catering to cross country skiers and snow shoers around Mt Stirling, you can ski in to your (pre-erected) heated tent (on raised, insulated platforms). After you settle in, head to the central tepee to discuss the day’s action around the warmth of a potbelly stove…

Before you book: This isn’t glamping! It’s pretty basic but warm with onsite cooking facilities.

9. The first-timer family snow weekend – Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is around two hours’ scenic drive from Melbourne, as good a reason as any to start the inaugural annual family snow holiday. Make a weekend of it by staying at the newly opened Vibe in nearby Marysville. The roomy hotel is a good mix of funky, fresh and functional with hearty (and local) on-site food options at Radius Bar & Grill…

Before you book: Lake Mountain Alpine Resort caters to ‘snowplay’ – cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding etc. There is no downhill skiing or snowboarding.

10. The comfortable old fave – Marritz Alpine Inn, Perisher

On-snow accommodation at Perisher is smaller, sometime older style lodges, inns and hotels, so it’s all about finding a perfect fit and wearing it well, just like your favourite pair of shoes. The Marritz is “premium accommodation", not exactly high-end luxury, but offers a solid mix of services: the food is good, the staff are friendly, the rooms are relatively big and bright, and the tariff is reasonable (by Australian snowfield standards). The Front Valley views (from some rooms with enclosed balconies) are extra spesh and most of the post-skiing goodies are there: open fire in the lounge area, a sauna and indoor heated pool (get in early).

Before you book: Some find it a tad outdated, but it’s comfortable, well-positioned and functional without being fancy. Ideal for families looking to stay on snow.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

Top 10 coolest snow stays in Australia’s ski fields