Melbourne, the capital city of the state of Victoria in Australia, is known for its diverse climate and vibrant culture. While snow is not a common occurrence in Melbourne, there are a few places where you can find free snow during certain times of the year. In this article, we will explore these locations and provide you with some practical information to make the most of your snowy experience in Melbourne.
1. Mount Donna Buang
If you are looking for free snow near Melbourne, Mount Donna Buang is a great option. Located approximately 80 kilometers east of the city, this mountain offers snowfall during winter months. The best time to visit is usually between June and August when snowfall is more likely. Make sure to check weather forecasts and road conditions before planning your trip to Mount Donna Buang.
How to get there
To reach Mount Donna Buang, you can drive or take public transportation. If you choose to drive, follow the Maroondah Highway (B360) and continue onto the C506. Public transportation options include taking a train to Lilydale, and then catching a bus to Warburton, from where you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the mountain.
What to do
Once you arrive at Mount Donna Buang, you can engage in various activities. Skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing are popular among visitors. You can rent equipment on-site or bring your own. Additionally, there are designated areas for snow play, where you can build snowmen or have a friendly snowball fight.
2. Lake Mountain
Another place to find free snow near Melbourne is Lake Mountain. Situated in the eastern part of Victoria, Lake Mountain offers a range of winter activities for snow enthusiasts. The snow season at Lake Mountain typically runs from June to September.
How to get there
To reach Lake Mountain, you can drive or take a bus from Melbourne. If you choose to drive, follow the Maroondah Highway (B360) to Warburton, and then follow the signs to Lake Mountain Alpine Resort. If you prefer taking a bus, there are tour companies that offer day trips from Melbourne to Lake Mountain.
What to do
At Lake Mountain, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and snowshoeing. There are designated areas for snow play, perfect for families with children. The resort also has facilities such as cafes and a ski school for beginners who want to learn skiing or snowboarding.
3. Mount Baw Baw
Located approximately 120 kilometers east of Melbourne, Mount Baw Baw is another place where you can find free snow during the winter season. With its picturesque scenery and range of snow activities, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
How to get there
To reach Mount Baw Baw, you can drive or take public transportation. By car, follow the Princes Freeway (M1) and exit onto the A440 towards Moe. Then, follow the signs to Mount Baw Baw. Public buses are also available from Melbourne to Mount Baw Baw during the snow season.
What to do
Mount Baw Baw offers skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing opportunities for visitors of all skill levels. The resort has slopes suitable for beginners as well as more challenging runs for experienced skiers. There are also snowshoeing trails for those who prefer a slower pace.
While snow may not be a common occurrence in Melbourne, there are several places near the city where you can find free snow during the winter season. Mount Donna Buang, Lake Mountain, and Mount Baw Baw offer a range of activities for snow enthusiasts, from skiing and snowboarding to snow play. Remember to plan your visit accordingly, check weather conditions, and be prepared for potential road closures during heavy snowfall. Enjoy your snowy adventure in Melbourne!