Photo: Picturesk / CC BY-SA 3.0
Perched in the northern reaches of the Snowy Mountains, Selwyn Snow Resort is a family-friendly alpine escape that feels a world away from the crowds of larger resorts. Known for its gentle slopes and laid-back vibe, Selwyn is the kind of place where kids learn to ski while parents soak up the crisp mountain air and snow-dusted eucalypts. It’s a classic Australian snow holiday, minus the fuss.
Highlights & What to See
- Learn to Ski or Snowboard: Selwyn’s beginner-friendly terrain and patient instructors make it one of Australia’s best spots for first-timers. The ‘SnoPlay’ area is perfect for toddlers and families.
- Snow Tubing & Tobogganing: No skills required – just grab a tube and race down dedicated lanes. It’s pure, unadulterated fun for all ages.
- Scenic Chairlift Ride: Even if you don’t ski, the chairlift offers sweeping views over the snowy peaks and native bushland. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and wombats near the treeline.
- Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the peaceful backcountry trails that wind through snow gums and open plains. It’s a quiet way to experience the alpine landscape.
- Cosy Alpine Dining: The resort’s cafés serve hearty Aussie fare – think hot chips, pies, and mulled wine – perfect for warming up between runs.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors find a full day at Selwyn sufficient to enjoy the slopes and activities. If you’re a beginner or have young children, you can comfortably cover the main attractions in 4–6 hours. For keen skiers or snowboarders, a weekend allows time to explore the resort’s 12 runs and nearby snowshoe trails. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and beat the queues for rental gear.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Snowy Mountains (Kosciuszko National Park): Drive 90 minutes south to Australia’s highest peaks, including Mount Kosciuszko, for epic hiking and cross-country skiing in summer and winter.
- Cooma: A historic high-country town 45 minutes north, offering snowy mountain heritage, the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, and good cafés for a pre- or post-snow stop.
- Yarrangobilly Caves: About an hour east, these limestone caves feature guided tours and a thermal pool – a surreal contrast to the snow above ground.
- Canberra: A 2-hour drive north, the capital offers museums, galleries, and the Australian War Memorial – a perfect cultural add-on to a snow trip.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Snowy Mountains — Dhx1 / CC0
- Cooma — jjron / GFDL 1.2
- Yarrangobilly Caves — Colin Henein / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Canberra — The 3B's / CC BY 2.0