How much fun can you have in the snow? An awful lot according to well-travelled veteran Getaway presenter, and mad keen snow fan, Lochie Daddo.
He says too many Australians underestimate just how good the Australian snow season is.
“Our winters may be relatively short but our snowfields are set in spectacular scenery and offer a wonderful experience.”
Australia’s snowfields are set in the alps of New South Wales and Victoria.
“Like most Aussies I learnt to ski right here in Oz, and now I’m thrilled to be sharing that experience with my wife and kids,” says Daddo.
“Last ski season was one of Australia’s best ever, with record snowfalls across our resorts - 2013 should be a cracking winter here and we can’t wait to hit the slopes again!”
He says that people who haven’t tried the snow before shouldn’t be concerned about doing so.
“Whether you’re an experienced skier, or just want to try it for the first time as a couple or with your family, Australia’s snowfields cater for everyone.
“And you never forget your first trip to the snow,” says Daddo. “It’s exhilarating!”
Snow Australia, which represents all snowfield resorts in both states, has a number of packages for people of all abilities and group sizes.
And despite the popular myth about the cost of a snow holiday at home, Roy Morgan Research shows that the average cost of a snow holiday in Australia is $1,153 per person compared with $2,903 in New Zealand and $4,658 in other overseas destinations.
According to a Snow Australia spokesperson, the price of a trip to the snow is $123/day per person, while a holiday elsewhere in Australia is $10 a day cheaper on average.
Check out some of the packages on offer from Snow Australia this season.
New South Wales
Charlotte Pass: 5-night Family Stay
· 5 nights accommodation
· 5 buffet breakfasts
· 5 lunches in Kosi Bar and Bistro
· 5 x 3-course a la carte dinners in Arches Restaurant (childrens’ dinners served in Kosi Bar and Bistro)
· 6-day lift pass
· one return oversnow trip to Perisher Valley
Perisher: Start a Family Tradition
· 5 nights accommodation for 2 adults & 3 children
· $709 per self-contained apartment
· valid 7-15 June & 8 September – 6 October
Victoria
Mt Baw Baw: Family Ski Refresher
· 3 nights lodge style accommodation (twin, double or family room)
· 3 day lift pass
· 3 group lessons per adult
· 3 day Snowsports School per child (including lunch)
· 3 day ski or board rental
· 3 day parka & pants rental
· from $499 per adult & $405 per child (3-14 years)
· valid 7-20 June & 13-29 September
Hotham: Family Fun Snow Holiday
· 5 nights accommodation in a 3-bedroom chalet
· 5 day adult lift, lesson & rental pass
· 5 day child lift, lesson & rental pass
· from $1,130 per adult & $967 per child, based on 8 share
· valid 8-22 June & 8-29 September
For further information, including a guide for first-timers, check out Snow Australia.