Catriona Rowntree discovers a unique husky tour at Mt Hotham
Mount Hotham is Victoria’s highest winter wonderland playground, but it’s not all about the fantastic skiing and snowboarding! Catriona Rowntree discovered a unique backcountry tour that is guaranteed to get the heart pumping and put a big smile on your face!
Location:
Mt Hotham, Victoria
Cost:
Howling Huskys, Mt Hotham www.howlinghuskys.com.au Polar Paws Express tour starts at $330 including sled ride and pat n’ play
Sambuca Apartments, Mt Hotham www.hothamholidays.com.au Apartments start at $600 per night (2 night minimum)
Correct at 13.06.26
Highlights:
Mount Hotham is perched high in the Victorian Alps, a four and a half hour drive from Melbourne. Known as the powder capital of Australia, the ski-in-ski-out resort has exhilarating terrain, panoramic views and a special experience that you don’t need to travel to Alaska for!
Exploring the snowy alpine trails by dog sled is a rare opportunity in Australia, so Catriona excitedly joined Howling Huskys’ owner and trainer Jake Greaves for a thrilling ride. While some of the huskies have been trained from puppies, the majority of their dogs are rescued and rehomed from rehab groups and shelters around the country.
The excitement was building, and the dogs were enthusiastically barking as Catriona snuggled down into the long sled with Jake and his son on the back. With a loud cry of ’hike” they were off, whizzing down the trails! As well as the pure thrill of the sled ride, there was plenty of time to anchor the sled in the snow and take a short walk to soak in the views. At the end of the tour, dog cuddles and pats are welcomed as a reward for a good job and a great opportunity to take photos with your new furry friends!
Unlike other Australian ski fields, Hotham village sits at the top of the mountain. You can drive in and out, but the ultimate ski holiday is staying right on the snow. Sambuca Apartments are beautifully appointed, and fully self-contained right in the heart of the action. With a supermarket, bars and cafes at your doorstep, and only moments from the chairlifts, they are the perfect place to base yourself for an unforgettable snow holiday! Pass the schnapps!
