WITH consistently good natural snowfall, complemented by high–tech snowmaking capacity, and vast uncrowded runs with stunning natural vistas set in Victoria’s highest alpine village, a winter holiday at Mt Hotham is looking better than ever.
And in 2021, visitors can look forward to more exhilarating fun on the world–class slopes and terrain parks, fabulous dining options, and a range of unique alpine activities.
Mt Hotham marketing and communications manager, Katie Bowker, is thrilled to be welcoming guests back to the resort, particularly after the challenges faced in the 2020 season.
"Early snowfalls are a great indicator for a bumper season and Mt Hotham’s easy drive–in, ski–out access means guests can be on the runs for fresh turns without any hassle,” she said.
Ms Bowker recommends guests head to the Mt Hotham website – mthotham.com.au – to plan and book their holiday well in advance.
“We’re expecting a busy season with guests returning to their much–loved mountain," she said.
"To avoid disappointment we suggest visitors consider mid–week and off peak dates.
"Spring is the perfect time to visit, with blue skies, and great snow.”
Off–piste action – explore Australia’s best alpine backcountry
In 2019, Mt Hotham expanded its backcountry offering, formalising what experienced skiers and boarders have always known – Hotham reigns supreme in providing access to stunning alpine backcountry experiences.
In 2021, guided backcountry tours will continue to open up Hotham’s stunning untracked terrain, with options for everyone from intermediate and advanced skiers who haven’t been game to try backcountry, to experienced backcountry riders who want a customised guided tour.
Mt Hotham will also again be hosting Australia’s only Backcountry Festival in September, celebrating human–powered winter sports including cross country skiing, snowshoeing, telemark and alpine touring and split boarding.
There will be an extensive program of tours and workshops, an outdoor ski–in bar, a speakers’ program, film night, a demo village and other social events.
Hotham’s equipment hire operators including Hoys, Snow Monkey, Tirol Sports and One Tree Sports are ready to kit out keen adventurers with the latest backcountry touring technology from around the world.
Stay and play
Visitors looking for a truly unique outdoor experience can try the first and only igloo village in Australia, delivered by Alpine Nature Experience.
Snowshoe through the snowgums, learn to prepare an authentic French cheese fondue, then curl up in a real snow igloo, comfortably furnished with a real bed and –8 degree rated sleeping bags.
The iconic Joyce Brockhoff Hut in Heavenly Valley will be open for business again, providing great coffee, pastries from the Harrietville Bakery, and piping hot homemade soups – right on the slopes in a true ski in, ski out experience.
Tobogganing will still be a popular family–friendly activity at Mt Hotham’s toboggan and snow play areas, and kids can hop on a snowmobile for a trip through the snow gum forest in Hotham’s Wire Plain area.
Victoria’s most accessible resort
All activities are easily accessed on the free resort shuttle’s fleet of fully accessible buses with low floors and electric wheelchair ramps, making access easier for all visitors.
To support the resort’s accessible ethos, Disabled Wintersports Australia will again offer their members a range of services, including volunteer guides, specialised adaptive equipment, discounted lift tickets and disability–specific information for visiting the mountain.
These programs are run with significant community support, including RMB and Lift Co, and the Mt Hotham community.
Whilst the program provides an incredible opportunity for differently–abled skiers and boarders, more help is always needed.
Experienced skiers and boarders looking for a new way to explore the mountain, help others and make new friends are encouraged to consider being a volunteer guide, by contacting Philip Knight on 0412 270 764.