By Kath Gannaway
MELBOURNE’S closest winter playground, Lake Mountain near Marysville, is gearing up for the opening of the 2006 snow season in June.
Dubbed ‘the mountain of fun’, Lake Mountain offers fun in the snow for everyone, from first-time tobogganers to cross-country skiers.
Tobogganing, snow play, sled rides, snow-shoeing and a new tube run are drawcards for families.
As Australia’s premier cross-country ski resort, there are more than 37 kilometres of trails for skiers to explore as they glide through captivating scenery overlooking the Victorian Alps and the Cathedral Ranges.
Lake Mountain provides families with a friendly affordable and exciting trip to the snow and is the easiest alpine resort in Victoria to access.
The resort and the trails are located on the plateau of the mountain.
The extensive network of trails attracts 200,000 visitors a year during the winter and summer months, making it arguably one the three busiest cross-country resorts in the world.
If you are looking to rekindle a little romance, tackle a little adventure, and be pampered with a relaxing massage, then Lake Mountain and Marysville will provide a truly memorable experience.
The beautiful village of Marysville is only 20 minutes down the mountain, and with 3000 beds to choose from, it is host to sophisticated resorts, luxury B&Bs, toasty cabins and a boutique shopping experience.
The Cumberland has a new day spa which guarantees a completely indulgent experience.
What’s New
Lake Mountain has a brand new multi-million dollar visitor centre that enhances the visitor experience with a family bistro, bar, conferencing facilities, a retail ski outlet and hiring facilities along with heated shelter areas.
This season will also see the launch of the world’s latest snow-making technology.
And for kids of all ages, Lake Mountain will be opening the new Tube Run, while for the first-timers, there will be a new beginner ski area to ensure they have all the skills needed to tackle the scenic trails confidently.
Skiing is the best way to see all of what Lake Mountain has to offer.
More than 37 kilometres of groomed trails from beginner to advanced capture the true essence of the alpine environment. Your camera will capture the stunning views.
Tobogganing and snow tubing are great family fun, and with seven toboggan runs, there’s plenty of snow for everyone.
Snow play never goes out of fashion and no trip to the snow would be complete without building a snowman or throwing a few snow balls. Lake Mountain has an abundance of snow-play areas, so make the most of it.
Motorised sled rides are a great way to see the alpine world with little effort and it’s great fun.
Snow shoeing is another activity – more effort required but it’s great fun.
As with any visit to the snow, planning your trip is the secret to an enjoyable snow experience.
For information on visitor packages, call Lake Mountain Alpine Resort on 5957 7222 or visit www.lakemountainresort.com.au.