SNOW season is here and there is no better place to hit the slopes with the family than at Mt Buller.
Blanketed in snow, the ski resort has just opened their new $6 million, six seater chairlift after a bumper start to the season.
Just a three hour drive from Melbourne, Mt Buller is perfect for the whole family with plenty of beginner runs right to the village.
And their huge Ski and Snowboard School is a great way for kids to learn and build confidence on the slopes.
Kids can start lessons from just three-years-old in the Magic Forest, a special zone for little ones away from the busy main runs, and you’d be surprised how quickly they’ll pick it up.
And let’s not forget the tonnes of activities on and off the snow, and plenty of places to stay and dine for a complete family escape.
But the best part is that you don’t have to stay far from the action – you can stay in the alpine village high in the snowline, with over 7000 beds in the resort, with shuttle buses and footpaths making it easy to get around.
Or, if you’d rather visit just for the day it’s easily accessible from Melbourne via car or coach.
Older kids are welcome too – and teenagers can enjoy kids pricing up until Year 12.
In June and September, up to 2 kids (under the age of 15) can stay free of charge when accompanied by two sharing adults. Look out for the Kids Stay Free logo when booking your next holiday to Mt Buller.
Start planning your holiday and look for the Kids Stay Free logo next to participating accommodation properties.
www.mtbuller.com.au/Winter/plan-your-visit/accommodation/kids-stay-free
Tips for a fuss free snow holiday at Mt Buller
1. Less is more – Aim for short stints only outside and set up so you can duck in and and out easily. It’s tempting to stay in the snow for longer, let’s face it you’ve spent 20 minutes wrangling them into that jacket and boots. But five minutes bursts of playing is sometimes the best, then back inside to warm up.
2. A day visit is fun but can be a bit much for little people. Stay for a least a night if you can so you can really settle in and enjoy the experience. A ‘home base’ makes it easier and many accommodation places do “Kids Stay Free” deals. Lodges are family friendly options with kitchens so you can bring your own food, games rooms for the kids and cosy communal lounges where everyone gathers for wine and cheese at the end of the day. If you do visit for the day, plan at least one of the drive legs to fit around sleep times.
3. Ch-ch-changes – bring more changes of dry clothes than you think you’ll ever possibly need. Kids manage to get snow in places you never thought possible and a dry, warm toddler is a happy toddler! It’s tempting to think maybe just an extra pair of trackie pants or some gumboots are going to cut it – but seriously, get proper ski gear. It’s worth every cent. There is a huge trade in hand-me-down winter gear if you go online. Those cute one-piece suits are brilliant! Look for waterproof outer layers, one-piece outfits where possible to keep snow out and then light under layers in bamboo or merino for warmth and breathability
4. No love with gloves – If you’ve ever managed to get a small set of fingers into a pair of gloves, especially if those little fingers are wet… then you deserve a medal. Skip the screaming matches and get some velcro opening mittens. You can open the whole mitten and wrap up little hands easily. You are going to be taking them on and off, and on… and off… so simple is best.
5. Those cute little woollen bonnets with the ties that go under the chin… get one of those, or a suit/top with a lined hood. Most little ones will pull a beanie off in seconds flat and drop it into a puddle.
6. Backpack/stroller – this should probably be up near the top of the list. A good stroller, or even better a baby sling or backpack is your friend in the snow. There are some great backpack set ups that protect your back and leave your hands free to balance and keep your little one warm and cosy and able to look around at your head height. A good buggy with the big tyres is also a great option for when there is fresh snow. Consider getting boot chains for when it’s icy. They slip easily over the soles of your boots and give you more grip which is really reassuring.
7. Starting on skis – at Mt Buller they will accept kids as young as 3 years old into ski school and it’s amazing how quickly some kids take to it. The Magic Forest is tucked away from the crowds and the instructors are specially trained in teaching young children at their own pace. The lessons are short and broken up with breaks, snacks and games. It gives you a chance to have a break or go for a ski yourself – because it’s your snow holiday too!
8. Check out the what’s on and event listings – ski resorts have lots of kids entertainment and it’s usually the simple things that your little one will love.
