The Snowies for non-skiers
Ski resorts can seem intimidating for first-timers but, as our family of four discovered, you don’t need skis or Olympic skills to enjoy the activities on offer at Thredbo, in the Snowy Mountains region of NSW.
As you arrive at Thredbo Village, it’s like a Christmas movie comes to life: crisp alpine air carries the waft of fresh cinnamon doughnuts, as smoke twirls above picture-perfect chalets dusted with powdery snow.
Eager to get a view from the top, we head for Thredbo’s newest attraction: Merritts Gondola. Launched last year, Australia’s only alpine gondola features European-style cabins and takes six minutes to whiz up to Merritts Mountain House, where a panoramic vista awaits. The kids gobble their fries and hot chocolates, while hubby and I soak up the views and vibe over tasty lamb shanks and a warming schnapps.
Other on-mountain options include a snowcat tour to Kareela Hutte restaurant for a four-course dinner and wine package, overlooking the twinkling lights of the village, or watching the sun rise at Australia’s highest lifted point, followed by a delicious breakfast at the nation’s highest restaurant, Eagles Nest.
Sunny days call for creek-side strolls and a family challenge to build an Instagram-worthy snowman (BYO carrot and scarf). Then, once the chill sets in, it’s time to escape the elements with an indulgent hotel spa treatment or therapeutic sauna.
At sunset, the village becomes a thriving hub, with more than 30 tempting dining options. Saturday night brings a fun surprise: fireworks! We also watch the Flare Run, when skiers and snowboarders whiz down the Supertrail in dazzling streaks.
A day trip to Perisher Valley is also a must for more sightseeing, snow play and wintry delights. For updates on what’s on offer this season, go to: thredbo.com.au; perisher.com.au