Catriona Rowntree explores Mount Hotham - the 'Powder Capital of the Country'
Updated . First published
Welcome to Mount Hotham, a truly unique alpine resort nestled high in the Victorian Alps.
Hotham village is located at the very top of the mountain, so you can ski right out of your accommodation! Skip the chairlift and dive straight into the action as Catriona Rowntree finds the best ski runs, accommodation and hot chocolate, high above the tree line.
Location:
Mt Hotham, Victoria
Cost:
Hoff Hut www.instagram.com/hoff_hut_hotham
Open daily 8.30am - 4pm (when Heavenly Valley chairlift is operating)
Arrabri Alpine Club www.arrabriskiclub.org.au
Winter dorm room prices start at $190 for adults and $125 for kids for 2 nights (Fri & Sat) or $380 for adults and $215 for kids for 5 nights (Sun - Thurs)
Correct at 09.05.26
Highlights:
Mount Hotham is situated in the Victorian Alps, approximately four and a half hours drive from Melbourne. As the highest Victorian ski resort it holds the unofficial title among ski bunnies as the "Powder Capital of the Country" due to the quality of the snow.
Catriona began her visit with a skiing tour of the mountain by one of Mount Hotham's guides, Paul Webber. He explained that while it's an adventurous mountain popular with experienced skiers and boarders, there were also areas suitable for beginners, including a kids' ski school. Hotham's diverse range of terrain has 72 trails spread across over 300 hectares of skiable area.
At the top of the Black Snake trail, Hoff Hut is a ski-in/ski-out café-style rest spot that has become a Hotham institution. Originally constructed in 1949, it was reopened in 2019 as a fully licensed café serving hearty soups, baked goods, coffee, chai, fantastic hot chocolates and a happy atmosphere.
Back in Hotham village there are ample opportunities to unwind after a day on the slopes, with several bars and restaurants offering a vibrant après ski scene. On-mountain accommodation can be pricey, however Arrabri Alpine Club is a comfortable, budget-conscious choice, featuring a fully equipped self-catering kitchen, TV and games rooms, and bedrooms sleeping up to 8 guests. The lodge offers a welcoming, relaxed and friendly vibe with a big communal space perfect for chatting around the fire. Catriona thinks Mount Hotham is her new happy place!
Related Content:
Catriona Rowntree takes a tumble as she rides with the Howling Huskies of Mount Hotham
Catriona Rowntree's unique travel 'first' after 34 years of hosting Getaway
