Travel

4 Reasons To Visit Mt Hotham This Winter

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Is there any better feeling than, well, losing feeling in your face from the breathtakingly freezing wind you cop skiing down a mountain? Possibly yes, but that's just getting the hot choccy after said descent. Yes, we are of course talking about (or frothing over) the skiing experience. In our books, there’s only one place that comes to mind – Mount Hotham. You may know and love them as much as us, but we’re here to fill you in on why you need to visit Hotham this winter, not just on the weekend – and not just for skiing.

It's A Secret Foodie Haven

Who on earth would think that hidden away in the mountains you would find some seriously delicious eats? First of all, you know we are living our best hot choccy in the snow life at The Bird Cafe and Bar which is conveniently just metres from the Summit chairlift so you can ski straight in. Seems like the guys at the Bird also turn it on come sunset with themed parties, live music and happy hours. Zirky’s, right on the slopes, is your one-stop easy-feast shop. With heaps of easy takeaway meals, pastries and coffees as well as a deli-like section stocked full with heaps of local gourmet food products, wines, beers and pre-made meals to take back to your room. A tad more on the fancy side, Jack Frost has got you covered for warming drinks like Chai Spiced Mulled Wine or a Hot Buttered Whiskey and the menu is next level; think star anise and mandarin braised pork belly, Baja fish tacos, and blacken beef brisket with mountain yuzu Verde. Bookings are essential if you want to get in on the action. There are literally so many more restaurants on offer, like the Alberg Bar and Bistro which is also home to Mount Hotham Brewery. The gang is slinging weekly specials, hearty meals, daily happy hours, bar snacks and pizza till 9pm. Give these guys a stalk on socials for midweek and off-peak specials and events – they're worth the trip.

Luxury Accommodation

Now, you know we are soo all about a staycation. Close enough to Melbourne to just hop in the car to get there but also a complete change of scenery from the bustling city? Oh yeah, that's just gone to the top of our staycation list. Now let it be known, with all the options available you could literally bring the whole squad AND their partners, all stay in the same Chalet (fancy) and still have spare rooms. Whitemount caught our eye, but perhaps you’ve got the kids, in which case the Ski Players lodge right next to the Kid's Ski and Ride School might be more your style. There are heaps of options with ski-in and ski-out as well as village parking too. Thrill-seekers need not miss a Howling Husky Sled Dog Tour where beautiful Siberian Huskies will whisks you away into the winter wonderland of the backcountry trails of Mt Hotham. If you're looking to relax and indulge, make sure to schedule an All-Terrain BBQ live at the Tipi. Here, you will embark on a short, scenic walk at sunset to Alpine Nature Experience’s unique eco-village and tuck into in a delicious freshly grilled, BBQ dinner in a fire-heated tipi, complete with entertainment. Talk about a mid-week reset.

Next-Level Views

Ok before you ask– yes, if you see someone sporting a lady-gaga-in-house-of-Gucci-snow scene-snowsuit, it's us ok? But there's a good reason for this– the views at Mount Hotham are downright lush. The insane altitude of the Village means the surrounding views, from either your room, on the slopes, or one of the many restaurants on offer are truly on-top-of-the-world panoramic. Oh, and it's like this on and off-peak season.

Shred-Worthy Snow 

What you'd see in your view is pristine, thick snow. Australia's highest alpine village, Mount Hotham cops seriously consistent snowfalls all winter long and has been coined the powder capital of Victoria. The serious height of the mountains means there's a run for everyone – from beginner to double black with the top-tier staff of course at every turn. They've also just reported the best start to the season in 22 years with huge snowfalls meaning the season is shaping up to be one for the record books.

Already packing your bags? For more information, bookings and even snow forecasts head here.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Mt Hotham and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make The Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.

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