Mount Donna Buang
There have been record snow falls in the Victorian Alps this winter. It is an amazing season to introduce your kids to snow – the catch – the price. Australian ski resorts are among the most expensive in the world and simply outside the budget of many families.
One option for parents that would like to introduce their kids to snow – without the cost is to visit Mount Donna Buang in the Yarra Ranges. Mount Donna Buang (the first place I ever saw snow) is located one and a half hours drive from Melbourne via Warburton and is a very manageable day trip even with small kids.
At the summit are three toboggan runs and plenty of space for snow play. Think snow-men and good old fashioned snowball fights. Access to the summit is free and chains are rarely required to drive the mountain.
Food is not usually available for purchase on the mountain so do take a picnic – remember to include a thermos of hot chocolate or hot soup.
Mount Donna Buang
Snow conditions are variable on the mountain so before heading off check the Warburton Valley information site, or their Facebook page for current snow coverage.
Due to its lower altitude than the ski resorts Donna Buang doesn’t offer the best snow in the state. The day we visited there was enough snow to toboggan, however even while we were there the snow did start to become slushy. It does offer plenty of snow for young kids to play in though-and for families to gauge whether a trip to one of the bigger mountains is for them. And it is pretty. On the drive up – as we reached the snowman my three year old asked me whether he would meet Santa Claus at the top of the mountain.
Little Lady Bub’s first visit to the snow
We took our four month old baby on our day trip to the mountain. I dressed her in layers of clothing, and she stayed in the carrier while we were there. Water resistant snow clothing is a must though for mobile kids – we did see many kids that just weren’t dressed appropriately for the conditions. If you can’t borrow any, cheap kids snow clothes are on sale at Coles, Woolworths and Aldi stores this winter (but not all outlets) at a reasonable price.
You can hire toboggans at the Shell Service Station next to the IGA in Warburton.
Do also stop for a meal either before or after your snow play in Warburton. It is a gorgeous little village. My tip – try the wood-fired pizza at Little Joe.
Bubs on the Move provides tips and advice for parents traveling with small children including attraction and accommodation reviews. You can join us on Facebook or Twitter to receive updates to your news feed.
You might also be interested in Tips for vacationing in the snow with small kids and Keeping your child safe in the cold.
Looks fun! I agree a bit of snow play is sufficient for young kids without spending huge amounts of money. We found our nearly-six-year-old wanted to ski on our holiday to Japan but not the 3yo.
Didn’t know we were the most expensive in the world nowadays! Given the quality of snow that doesn’t seem quite right.
Australian prices are really steep Bron. It was cheaper for us to go on a ski holiday to Club med in China including flights, lessons, lift tickets, food and childcare than it was to ski in Australia.
Ah yes. The price! Probably the main reason why we haven’t been in oz yet. Looks like fun! Stay toasty guys! Brrrrrrr
I really wish visiting the snow in Australia was more affordable. So many families miss out right now.