Tewksbury Lodge: a true winter chalet in Victoria.
Looking for a European-style snow experience close to home? Save the air ticket and hit the road to Bright in the Victorian bush, close to three ski resorts — Mount Buffalo, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. Stay at La Petite Barn, a ranch with a wood-burning fireplace, double spa baths and alpine views from every room.
If you like to get into the great outdoors to warm up those toes, Montanya in Mount Beauty is another alpine country getaway for the adventurous at heart. Ski in nearby Bogong, go for a mountain-bike ride or take a bushwalk. For a place with five beds and maximum capacity for eight people, the rates are ridiculously cheap, starting from $110 a night.
Under three hours' drive from Canberra, this all-new Snowy Mountains shack is tailor-made for cosy family and group getaways. With room for up to 11 people, Jack's Shack still manages a cute cottage feel with its lovely gardens, decked-out kitchen and covered deck with a gas barbecue for sausage sizzle sunsets.
Wow. Talk about cute. These two self-contained cottages have won awards for guest satisfaction, and it's easy to see why. They pack all the crowd-pleasing elements: wood and panel heaters, spacious living rooms, pretty courtyards, nice DVD, CD, magazine and book collections, and a private location.
Heading to Thredbo or Perisher? Jindabyne is a great base for people looking to avoid the resort rush. This three-bedroom house boasts mountain and lake views, so you really can't complain while sipping that hot cocoa in your fluffy robe.
Ever been to the mountain village of Harrietville? Add this Great Alpine Road beauty to your list. Named 'An Alpine Retreat' for obvious reasons, this newly renovated house has stone walls, vaulted timber ceilings, two wood fires, and some electric blankets to keep everyone warm. Drive to nearby Mt Hotham for your skiing needs
You can't really get any more charming and rustic than this handcrafted log cabin. There's a log fire, a spa, some bicycles for the local Rail Trail and gorgeously lush gardens that look onto a totally swimmable river, should you like a crisp start to the day. From $175 a night, and with potential to fit five people, the only problem left is that it's hard to leave.
Spend luxurious time in the spa bath or gaze over the mountains from the sunny living room at this Jindabyne escape. An easy walk down to the lake, and with garage space for a boat and trailer, Alpine Escape is a winter getaway not just for skiers.
You won't get into the President's White House, but there's always Andrea's White House in the Snowy Mountains. This environmentally friendly bed and breakfast offers four guest rooms, each with ensuites. Breakfast and fresh coffee is provided.
This chalet is stylishly Swiss with its timber and log interiors. Sit around the open fireplace on the leather lounges, or head to the designated 'relaxation room'. Yes, it's a Finnish sauna and spa, people. Add underfloor heating, warm doonas and ample entertainment in cable TV and DVDs, and you've got a cosy weekend away.
Love these winter wonders? Book one right now at Stayz.com.au.
