Mount Hotham

Mount Hotham, Victoria's highest alpine village, is a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Perched at 1,861 metres, this resort offers spectacular views across the Australian Alps, with a reputation for challenging ski runs in winter and epic mountain biking trails in summer. The village itself has a laid-back, après-ski vibe with cosy lodges and restaurants, but the real draw is the raw, untamed beauty of the surrounding national park.

Highlights & What to See

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Hotham is known for its steep, tree-lined runs and reliable snowfall. The Heavenly Valley and Summit areas offer advanced terrain, while beginners can enjoy Big D and the Village Run.
• Cross-Country Skiing: The resort connects to the vast cross-country network of the Bogong High Plains, with groomed trails winding through snow gum forests and open plains.
• Summer Mountain Biking: The Hotham Mountain Bike Park features lift-accessed downhill trails, flowy singletrack, and scenic cross-country rides that take advantage of the alpine scenery.
• Walking and Hiking: In summer, the Razorback Trail offers a stunning ridge walk from Hotham to Mount Feathertop, with panoramic views of the Kiewa Valley and the snow-capped peaks.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wombats, kangaroos, and the elusive mountain pygmy-possum. The alpine meadows bloom with wildflowers in January and February.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a ski trip, plan at least three to four days to make the most of the slopes and après-ski. In summer, two to three days allow you to tackle a major hike or mountain bike ride and still explore the village. If you're incorporating Hotham into a broader self-drive itinerary along the Great Alpine Road, a single overnight stop can work for a taste of the alpine experience, but you'll wish you stayed longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bright – A charming mountain town 45 minutes south, known for its autumn colours, craft breweries, and river swimming.
• Falls Creek – Another major alpine resort, about 90 minutes away via the Bogong High Plains Road, offering more skiing and mountain biking.
• Mount Buffalo National Park – Granite tors, waterfalls, and historic chalet, ideal for a day trip from Bright or Hotham.
• Beechworth – A historic gold-rush town with excellent bakeries, a brewery, and the Beechworth Historic Park.
• Ovens Valley – The valley floor below Hotham offers wineries, olive groves, and the charming town of Myrtleford.

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