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Seasons in Australia are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere, with summer from December through February, and winter from June through August. Each season has a magic of its own.
In Australia’s north, travellers can enjoy a tropical climate with more than its fair share of sunshine, while the south has warm summers and snow-dusted winters.
For winter fun, the Australian Alps are filled with outdoor pursuits, character-filled country pubs and snow-covered gum trees. The mountain range spans the states of New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria and embraces 16 national parks and reserves. The ski resorts here also receive their fair share of skiers and snowboarders each winter season.
Winter Wonder
Australia’s colder destinations come alive in winter, with an array of festivals taking place over the snowy season. Peak Festivals at Perisher is the only music festival in New South Wales’ Snowy Mountains. Other wonderful winter festivals include Yulefest in the Blue Mountains, DARK MOFO in Hobart, Winter Wonderlights in Sovereign Hill, and Bathurst Winter Festival in Bathurst.
Discover some of the locals' favourite ways to enjoy the snow season.
Snowmobiling
An exciting way to see the best of Australia’s spectacular winter landscapes is via snowmobile. The ride provides magnificent views of the surrounding ranges - popular spots include Falls Creek and Mt Hotham.
Dog Sledding
The thrill of being pulled through a sparkling white landscape by a team of Siberian Huskies is entirely unique. Check out the tours available in the winter resorts of Mt Hotham and Mt Buller in Victoria.
Tobogganing
A toboggan is a small sled used for sliding down slopes, and they are a classic way to enjoy the snow. Mt Buller, Mt Baw Baw and Falls Creek in Victoria are places that offer toboggan facilities with dedicated slopes.
Tubing
Fun for all ages, tubing is one of the most exhilarating winter activities. There are tube parks at Falls Creek, Perisher and Selwyn where visitors can purchase single rides or bulk rides.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing isn’t just for hardcore adventure seekers – this fun activity is possible for all ages and fitness levels. Hire snowshoes from ski rental stores then take off to explore the mountains at their peak winter beauty. Mt Hotham, Mt Buller andFalls Creek are those perfect hotspots.
Fat Biking
Special bikes with fat tyres (appropriately named Fat Bikes) are similar to mountain bikes and is the latest trend in snow and adventure activities. At Falls Creek, visitors can rent Fat Bikes and follow snowshoe/biking trails for a day of exploration.
(To be continued)
