With the ski season kicking off this coming June long weekend, keen shredders are expected to begin piling into those first chairlifts up the mountain. To ensure your trip is one to remember, it’s important to lock down accommodation that suits your holiday needs, giving you a place to unwind and recharge for the next morning’s powder carve-up.
The biggest difference between Thredbo and Perisher
Thredbo stands out as a cozy resort boasting a diverse range of slopes, including Australia’s lengthiest and highest ski runs. Particularly noteworthy is Friday Flat, a dedicated area catering to kids and beginners. Its distinctive feature is the substantial Alpine village nestled at the mountain’s base, replete with lodging, retail outlets, and dining options. Here, visitors can indulge in skiing down Australia’s lengthiest trails, ascending to the nation’s highest lifted point, or experiencing the unique Merritts Gondola ride.
On the other hand, Perisher claims the title of Australia’s largest resort, encompassing four distinct ski zones and thrice the number of trails found in Thredbo. It appeals to individuals of all skill levels and ages, with convenient access facilitated by the Skitube Railway from Bullocks Flat in Jindabyne. As the Southern Hemisphere’s largest ski destination, Perisher offers an abundance of attractions across its sprawling expanse, spanning Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega. With 47 lifts, numerous trails, five terrain parks, and over 100 kilometres of cross-country routes, Perisher ensures there’s something for every winter sports enthusiast.
The best places to stay in Perisher
Lake Jindabyne Hotel
Get ready for lakeside luxury at Lake Jindabyne Hotel, a bustling location with an outgoing vibe. The hotel is loaded with spacious rooms all boasting balconies and modern amenities like free WiFi, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. After a huge day of ripping turns and adrenaline fun, this location is the ultimate laid-back, warming-up-by-the-heater experience you’ll be craving. Indulge in lakeside dining, while the nearby bar offers its own communal buzz. Just a snowball’s throw from Jindabyne town centre and a short 30-minute drive to the Perisher ski fields, Lake Jindabyne Hotel is another ultimate Aussie alpine escape for you and the family.
Perisher Manor Hotel
Another rare ski-in, ski-out type of stay on this list, the Perisher Manor Hotel is only steps from the Perisher Valley ski lifts. Nestled in Kosciuszko National Park, it offers convenient access to the slopes and the Perisher Skitube Terminal. Keep yourself cozy in heated rooms with all the essential caffeine-fuelling facilities and modern amenities like free WiFi. Some rooms even feature flat-screen TVs and lounge areas for that extra touch of comfort to cradle the body. Indulge in delicious dining at Base 1720m Bar & Restaurant. Access is easy via Skitube, with parking available at Bullocks Flat Skitube Terminal. For another seamless alpine escape, Perisher Manor Hotel might be your next snow-covered sanctuary.
Smiggins Hotel & Chalet Apartments
Smiggins Hotel & Chalet Apartments: Your ultimate alpine retreat at the base of Smiggins Holes ski lifts. Enjoy seamless ski-to-door access and unwind in the sauna or shared lounge. Kids love the nightly club activities while adults revel in mountain views from select rooms or apartments. Conveniently located near Link T-Bar for easy access to Perisher, Blue Cow, and Guthega ski areas. Indulge in diverse accommodations, from cozy rooms to spacious suites and apartments, all equipped with modern amenities. Take advantage of ski school, hire services, and free ski storage, then relax with karaoke, live music, and delicious dining options at the onsite restaurant. A snow-covered paradise awaits
Boonoona Ski Lodge
Discover the charm of Boonoona Ski Lodge, nestled in the heart of Perisher within Kosciuszko National Park. Offering cozy accommodation with picturesque ski-out access, it’s the perfect base for alpine adventures. Choose from 14 rooms, ranging from intimate doubles to spacious seven-berth options, all featuring private ensuites and complimentary linen. Indulge in three delicious meals daily while soaking in the stunning mountain views. Relax in the large common lounge area with TVs and a pool table, or unwind in the spa, sauna, and steam room. With free WiFi and an onsite bar, every moment at Boonoona promises comfort and relaxation amidst the snowy splendour.
Matterhorn Lodge
Experience the alpine charm of Matterhorn Lodge in the heart of Perisher Valley. Nestled just 1.8 km from Perisher Ski Resort, this 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms equipped with essential modern amenities including free WiFi and cozy bedding. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring the snowy surroundings, Matterhorn Lodge provides the perfect base for your mountain adventures. After a day of skiing, unwind in the hotel’s bar or relax in your inviting guest room. With family-friendly accommodations available, it’s an ideal destination for winter getaways. Explore nearby attractions like Snowy Mountains and Lake Jindabyne, then return to the comfort of Matterhorn Lodge for a memorable alpine Aussie retreat.
Marritz Hotel
The Marritz Hotel doesn’t just provide a place to stay; it offers a cozy, typical alpine experience. Dive into the heated indoor pool, or melt away the muscle stress in the sauna, or savour the mouthwatering meals at the on-site restaurant. Located in Kosciuszko National Park, this stay is a snowball’s throw from Perisher’s heart and its bustling shopping scene. Keen to warm up? You and the family can cozy up by the fireplace or challenge your mates to a billiards match while the kids enjoy our Igloo Kids Club. With comfy rooms featuring TVs, central heating, and daily servicing, your comfort is this place’s top priority. So, why settle for ordinary when you can experience your winter holiday at Marritz Hotel.
Grey Mare Chalet Crackenback
Crackenback has earned a reputation for being the go-to ski season getaway accommodation, with fully furnished and modern-style houses and apartments for the entire family. Experience that Crackenback luxury and comfort at the Grey Mare Chalet, perfectly nestled in Crackenback near Perisher. A beautifully appointed chalet offers spacious living areas flooded with natural light, complete with that all important floor heating and booming air con. This joint will have you feeling like a king, with a kitchen boasting all your modern appliances and a large brekkie bar, perfect for family gatherings. Cozy up by the huge stone fireplace in the lounge, supplied with wood for winter nights. Kids will love the separate media room. Retreat to the Master bedroom with a King bed and ensuite spa bath, while Bedroom 2 comfortably sleeps four on bunk beds. With its own lock-up garage for ski storage and access to communal amenities including a shared laundry, restaurant, spa, and outdoor activities, Grey Mare Chalet promises an unforgettable Aussie alpine getaway.
Swagman Chalet
The Swagman offers the killer combo of ski-to-door access and breathtaking views, with a shared lounge, a restaurant, and a bar. Each unit boasts a private bathroom and complimentary WiFi. Wake up to a choice of continental, English/Irish, or veggie breakfast options before hitting the slopes or exploring nearby hiking trails and fishing spots. Conveniently located just 1.9 km from Perisher Ski Resort, it’s the perfect base for snowy adventures. Whether you’re shredding on the slopes or unwinding by the fire, Swagman Chalet promises an unforgettable alpine experience.
Sponars Chalet
Sponars is a historic haven just 8 km from Perisher Ski Resort. This 3-storey lodge boasts an indoor heated pool, steam room, and a cozy bar and restaurant with a crackling fireplace. Guests enjoy a complimentary shuttle to Smiggin Holes and Perisher, with convenient free parking. WiFi is available in the lounge and bar, while all rooms offer mountain views and essential amenities. Dive into fun with pool, table tennis, and Wii games, or relax in the drying room after a day on the slopes. Indulge in hearty meals like roast dinners and chicken pie, making every stay unforgettable. With only a short drive to the nearest Ski lift, Sponars give you that cozy homely feel you want – need– after tearing it up on the Perisher slopes.
Koolara Lodge
Embrace the winter wonderland at Kooloora Lodge, nestled an incredibly short 1.8 km from Perisher Ski Resort. Enjoy your cozy accommodation with modern amenities including complimentary WiFi and private bathrooms. Wake up to a hearty Full English/Irish breakfast, fuelling those legs before hitting the slopes with ski-to-door access. After a day of adventure, unwind in the shared lounge or on the terrace, taking in the breathtaking mountain views. For those craving more excitement, hiking, skiing, and cycling are just steps away. With the Snowy Mountains nearby and Lake Jindabyne a short drive away, Kooloora Lodge offers the perfect retreat for Aussie winter enthusiasts seeking both comfort and adventure.
Getting to and from your location
If you are driving, Sydney to Jindabyne is around five hours or just over two hours from Canberra. You can also fly into the Snowy Mountains Airport in Cooma, which involves a one-hour drive from the resorts. You will also need to take special care when driving on snowy or icy roads and follow the strict road precautions. For Perisher go-ers, it is ideal to drive up to the resort or catch the Skitube from Bullocks Flat.
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