Getting to Mt Hotham & Falls Creek

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Overview

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You can drive, fly or catch a bus to Victoria's snowfields. Most of Victoria's alpine resorts lie to the northeast of Melbourne. Over-snow shuttles in the ski fields whisk you and your gear to your lodge on the final leg of your long journey.

Mt Hotham and Falls Creek lie further to the northeast, 357 kilometres, approximately four and a half hours drive.

By Car:

To get to Mt Hotham, take the Hume Highway from Melbourne, the Snow Road through Milawa and then the Great Alpine Road through Bright and Harrietville. For an alternate route take the Princess Highway through Gippsland. At Bairnsdale, head for Omeo and then Mount Hotham. If travelling from the north, head to Wodonga then Yackandandah and join the Great Alpine Road at Myrtleford.

The mountain roads are regularly cleared of snow, but occasionally, you need to fit chains tyres for better grip. It is compulsory to carry chains at all times in the high country and fit them when directed. Mt Hotham has chain-fitting bays and some resorts have staff available to assist guests to fit their chains. Chains can be hired at ski shops in Melbourne or at the towns at the base of each ski area.

All drivers are warned to travel in daylight hours whenever possible. It is difficult to judge distances in the snow at night, and night conditions may damage your engine. To avoid engine damage from low temperatures make sure there is anti-freeze in the radiator.

If you drive a diesel-powered vehicle, fill up with alpine-mix diesel from a service station close to the snowfields to prevent the fuel freezing. Dual-fuel vehicles (LPG/petrol) should switch to petrol before entering alpine areas. Before you drive up the mountain, make sure your tank is full because bad weather causes delays and you may need to keep your motor running. There are no fuel stations at the top for the public.

By Plane:
Reduce travel time by flying to Mount Hotham. Qantas Link flies you direct to Mount Hotham Airport in comfort and style from Sydney and Melbourne with easy connections from all capital cities.
The flight from Melbourne to Mount Hotham Airport takes just 50 minutes, and from Sydney it takes 85 minutes.
Once at Mount Hotham Airport, it is only 20 kilometres to the alpine resort.
By Coach:
Buses are also a great way to get to a Victorian alpine resort, taking the hassle out of having to organise chains, directions and car parking.

Catch a Pyle's Coach from Melbourne (Southern Cross Station and Melbourne Airport), Albury or Mt. Beauty to Falls Creek.