Featured image: Here comes the sun. Photo: Thredbo

Snowflakes are falling and aprés-ski experiences are calling as the alpine village of Thredbo prepares to launch its winter season on June 12.

Named Australia’s Best Ski Resort at the 2020 World Ski Awards (for the fourth time!), Thredbo’s powder-perfect location in the Snowy Mountains is hard to beat for a winter snow holiday. But it’s the new-season experiences grabbing our attention this year.

Best for ski bunnies? Weekly Sunrise Sessions that offer a snowcat arrival to Australia’s ‘highest lifted point’ to soak up the sunrise and enjoy breakfast (and a morning G.H. Mumm mimosa) at the country’s highest restaurant, Eagles Nest. You’ll also score first tracks down Australia’s longest run, Supertrail. Schussing off Tuesdays from July 27-August 31.

Or nab a table at theMerritts Mountain Haus Feast where Australia’s only alpine gondola will deliver you to a feast of Bavarian-inspired dishes at Merritts Mountain House. The trip back down promises to be equally magical, with the Thredbo lights sparkling below. Add a Snowcat Tour ahead of dinner to watch the iconic Thredbo Flare Run and Fireworks Show from the Kareela Deck.

There’s plenty more in store including the Super Alpine 500 classic car rally (15-18 July) and First Base: a Vintage Après Ski Soirée with Hayden James (Saturday 07 August).

And if you’re looking for a romantic couple’s retreat to base your Snowy Mountains escape, see Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa. Their superb mountain chalets and lakeview apartments are just 20 minutes from Thredbo and 15 minutes from Perisher via the Skitube Alpine Railway.

Where: Thredbo, Snowy Mountains of southern NSW

When: Winter season starts June 12, 2021. Check out the full list of events here

Couples will love: A European-style snow holiday at home