This is where you should have your next family holiday

WINTER. The time of year when days are short, temps are cold and beach days with the fam become a distant memory.

Thredbo

WINTER. The time of year when days are short, temps are cold and beach days with the fam become a distant memory.

You’d hardly be mistaken for wanting to turn that longing for an easy, effortless seaside escape into a reality, but before you do, here’s a holiday idea that’s a little closer to home (plus, you can still pack the kid’s cossies).

Nestled within the Kosciuszko National Park in the heart of the Snowy Mountains is Thredbo, an alpine resort that is the perfect winter escape. Now, before you and the family let off a collective sigh because (a) you’ve never been to the snow before, and (b) the idea of a ski holiday with the kids makes you want to take out a mortgage, we’re here to debunk all myths that have previously stopped you from booking. 

A snow holiday doesn’t have to break the bank

The thought of a snow holiday shouldn’t signal loss of blood to the head. Do what the regulars do by buying your lift, lesson or rental at least seven days in advance to cut costs.

Thredbo is the only resort that offers discounted kids pricing for everyone under the age of 18, which means a saving on your little snow angels. During selected dates in June and September, purchase a Kids Ski Free 3 & 5 day pass, and any child under the age of 18 will receive one lift pass free of charge.

Resort life, also, doesn’t have to be exxy. Rest those legs after days of skiing and snowboarding at the Thredbo village, which offers accommodation for any and every budget – from shoestring to champagne. So, whether you want to treat yo-self in your snow chalet (sans kids) or save some coin for fun, family activities and après action from June to September, there’s a lodge, luxe apartment or hotel to suit your needs.

Hone your skills on some of Australia’s best terrain

You’ve done the road trip, got the lift pass and the family suite, so now it’s time to hit the slopes and see why so many people return season after season. If the thought of you or your kids, hurling down a mountain head first has you rethinking your holiday options, fear not as Friday Flat has an area specifically designed to quell those fears. Here, the lift is easier to use, the slope is a little more gentle, and best of all, the Snow Sports School meets here for lessons.

Book the tiny tots into Thredboland’s Ski Program, while you and your partner grab yourself a private lesson. If you’re feeling confident, The Cruiser, Basin and Central Spur areas offer up some decent blue runs, with the Supertrail considered one of the five longest runs in Australia. You know, to work up to for when you and the clan return next year.

You’ll have just as much fun off the mountain

A day of skiing and snowboarding can work up the biggest of appetites. Lucky for you and the kids, there are 30 foodie spots for you and the fussiest of eaters. Up top of the mountain, treat your loved ones to a delicious lunch at the highest restaurant and bar in Australia, Eagles Nest. If you’re after a quick feed, Friday Flat Bar & Bistro is the perfect on-snow pit stop for a refuel. In Thredbo village, the options for you and your fussy eaters are endless. Sink your teeth into Brazilian BBQ at Sante, family a la carte at Cascades Restaurant, schnitzel and schnapps at Black Bear Inn or a good ol’ burger at the Thredbo Burger Bar.  

After all the food, come all the activities. Lucky for you, the events calendar is jam-packed with action all season long that is sure to tire out the tots. Let them loose at the Kids Snow Festival while you indulge in Poolside Après with your partner. Because, and let’s be honest, if you don’t partake in any après action, did you even go to the snow?

Create some amazing holiday memories

One of the best things about a snow holiday (whether it’s with the kids or not), is creating amazing memories to go with your newfound skiing or snowboarding skills. The fun, family photo album moments don’t have to stop when the sun goes down, with everything from night skiing or famous flare running lighting up the Supertrail on Saturday nights.  We’re guessing those excited little faces post-fireworks on Thursday nights will make for a moment that’s truly unforgettable.

Gain access to overseas resorts

After a few days in the snow, you and the clan are bound to be addicted, so where to next?

If you’re keen to make the trip an international one, best to buy Thredbo’s Mountain Collective pass, that gives you access to come of the world’s best, independent ski destinations in the world including Canada, Europe or Japan. Niseko, anyone?

Originally published as This is where you should have your next family holiday