Snow Way! Perisher Proves Four Resorts Are Better Than One

Size does matter, when it comes down to it, with Perisher the biggest alpine resort in the southern hemisphere – and proud of it.

The numbers are impressive: Perisher boasts four resorts: Perisher, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega; seven mountain peaks; 1,245 hectares of terrain, 355 metres of vertical, 47 lifts, seven terrain parks, two halfpipes, and a summit height of 2,045 metres on Mount Perisher.

As for the terrain breakdown, it’s 22 per cent beginner, 60 per cent for intermediates and 18 per cent for advanced skiers. It even has over 100 kilometres of marked cross-country trails.

Taking Care Of Everyone

Whether you are five or 55, the Snowsports School will have you sorted. The beginner slopes on Front Valley won’t scare you senseless or you can choose to learn at Smiggin Holes.

Kids can do a group lesson from three years or, if they are super keen, Perisher introduced the Little Stars ski and play program for two-year-olds last season.

Adults (15 and over) can join two-hour lessons and will progress quickly.

Take it from those who know. Expert Tips For Your Next Snow Holiday

It's family-friendly year. 2015 Is A Family-Friendly Ski Season In Australia

Feeling Blue

One of the best things about Perisher is that there are so many different areas to explore.

You can ski from Perisher to Smiggins, to Blue Cow, and over to Guthega for lunch at the Guthega Alpine Inn. Mosey back to Blue Cow and head down the Copperhead Trail to Perisher.

Everywhere there are blue runs – from easy groomers to tree runs, bumps, steeps and jumps. You really cannot get bored.

Black Diamond Mining For The Pros

Whether it’s blasting down from the top of the Olympic T-Bar, tackling the double blacks around Double Trouble, taking on the Rock Garden off the Ridge Quad Chairlift or the infamous Kamikaze, advanced skiers and boarders will have plenty of great runs to film on their GoPros.

Not to mention the tricks they can show off in the parks.

Premier Terrain

With seven terrain parks to allow progression and two halfpipes, Perisher has plenty for those who love to ride rails and take to the air.

The ultimate is the PlayStation Park – known as the premier slope-style park in the southern hemisphere. For budding halfpipe riders, the mini pipe at Yabby Flat is excellent.

More Than Just Skis Or A Board

Perisher has some other activities that will add to your snow adventure. Tubing is always a hoot; stroll over to Tube Town, sit in a big inflated tube and slide down the designated run – hooting and hollering to your heart’s content.

Then be towed back up to the top for another go. Be warned – it is addictive.

Tobogganing is another fun activity – especially for kids. A snowshoe tour to the rooftop of Australia is also a great option.

Everyone loves fireworks and they brighten the night sky at 7.20pm every Tuesday at Perisher, and every Wednesday at Smiggin Holes in conjunction with night skiing.

Skiing after dark is a lot of fun, with Front Valley lit up every Tuesday and Saturday night from 6 until 9pm.

Skiing In Or Staying Out

Choose between staying at Perisher in ski‑in/ski-out accommodation or in town at Jindabyne.

Staying on snow is my pick – if you forget something you can go back and get it from where you’re staying. If you have a young child and they need a break, you can pop back for a nap.

And being on the snow, you are front and centre to make the most of your lift ticket.

Last winter we stayed at Corroboree Lodge on the snow – we saw the mountain come to life in the early morning light and the sun set over the ranges.

The family-run lodge offers excellent meals, good coffee, friendly service, a small bar with entertainment and comfortable rooms. Best of all, it’s a short walk to the lift.

If you prefer to be in town, Jindabyne has a swathe of apartments, lodges and, if you are looking for a cheaper alternative, a holiday park.

If the weather is bad and you don’t feel like skiing, stay in town and chill out. If you don’t want to drive to Perisher, take the Ski Tube from Bullocks Flat.

Wine & Dine

Best places for lunch

• Man From Snowy River Hotel
• Mid Perisher Centre

Best cafes

• Avalunch Cafe
• Cowpuccino Cafe

Best apres bars

• Sundeck
• Overflow Bar
• Man From Snowy River Hotel
• The Pub

Best dinner joints

• White Spider at the Eiger
• The Stables
• Snowgums

Best Ski Areas For Each Level

Beginner (green)

• Happy Valley
• Pretty Valley
• Pleasant Valley

Intermediate (blue)

• The Freedom Chairlift at Guthega
• Mt Perisher
• Mother in Law
• Excelerator

Advanced (black)

• Olympic T Bar
• Double Trouble
• Kamikaze

 

 

Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more travel advice and the latest snow holiday deals.

new south wales perisher