Victoria’s snow season officially opens for business this weekend; and with mountains offering everything from heli-cat skiing to snowshoeing, there’s an alp for everyone.

Day-tripping? Don’t know a boot from a binding? Head to fairy-tale sounding Lake Mountain. Less than 90 minutes from Melbourne, it’s perfect for cross-country skiing, tobogganing and snowball fights.

For a family, budget friendly resort, visit Mt Baw Baw. The closest major snowfield to Melbourne, Baw Baw has ideal terrain for beginners. It’s also home to Howling Husky Sled Tours, a unique way to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

Then there’s the big three: Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek are the places to be for ski and board bunnies.

Newbies should hit up Mt Buller’s Bourke St, an easy pedestrian paced green run.

Hotham’s ‘Hackers Horror’ and ‘Wall of Death’ double-black diamond runs aren’t for everyone; but Dinner Plain village is conveniently nearby, where you can warm up in a more sedate way at the Onsen spas.

And don’t think you can’t ‘do’ the snow if you can’t ski. Everyone knows the snow is really all about the après-ski. Don your finest faux-fur boots, sip some schnapps, and kick back by a fire – you’re bound to be a natural.

Victorian Snow Season
Opens Queens Birthday Weekend – 11 June 2011
Mt Hotham Downhill skiing, image supplied courtesy of Hotham Alpine Resort