OH! Magazine - Australian Version May 2017 | Page 12

( WHERE OH WHERE ) FAMILY FUN AT FALLS CREEK Analee Matthews takes the family on a trip to Falls Creek (VIC). y family and I have long been enjoying winter getaways in the snow, and so when the opportunity to experience Falls Creek arose, we leapt at the chance to enjoy one of Australia’s premier ski destinations. M What makes Falls Creek really special is the authentic village vibe, and it starts from the moment you arrive on the mountain. There’s something really cool about having to catch oversnow transport to your accommodation; it immediately immerses you in a magical winter wonderland, and instantly puts you in a snow holiday frame of mind! After a fun ride on what looks like a giant snow tractor, we are delivered to Koki Resort, our on-snow accommodation that is located a mere ‘woosh’ away from the central hub of Falls Creek. Falls Creek is famous for its reliable snow. The high alpine location brings significant natural snowfalls and the largely south- facing and snow-hugging slopes help to retain the snow for longer. Of course, to complement the natural snowfall, snow makers work tirelessly to produce fresh pow pow at every opportunity. In fact, their massive snowmaking system is able to generate quality man-made snow at the mere flick of a switch! And because the folks at Falls concentrate their snowmaking, slope maintenance and grooming efforts in the most popular ski areas, as well as along the home trails that link to and from your accommodation, you are ensured reliable skiing and boarding all season long. With over 450ha of skiable terrain, Falls Creek boasts runs suitable for every skier or snowboarder, no matter what your ability. Of course, if you’re on snow for the first time there are beginner lessons and packages that will set you up with all the equipment and expert knowledge you need to progress (check out our review of the Women’s Ski Program). The renowned ‘progression perfect’ terrain, which includes wide trails with a gentle pitch, ensures the time and space to progress at your own pace. You can tackle the green and blue runs, ski Wombat’s Ramble (the longest green run in Australia), cruise the famous Sum Valley blue runs, or challenge yourself in between tress in the Maze. At Falls Creek you’ll enjoy yourself both on and off the slopes. You can spend your days exploring the mountain – learning and laughing with expert instructors – while at night, you can immerse yourself in a snow-covered village that’s abundant with amazing bars and restaurants. During our stay, we had beautiful dining experiences at Feathertop Lodge, Milch, Elk, and the Falls Creek Hotel. Be sure also, to carve out some time to visit the Mike and Mim Sodergren Memorial at Eagle Rock. Whether it’s your first time to Falls Creek or you’ve been coming here your whole life, with a friendly face around every corner you’ll always feel like a local! To plan your visit to Falls Creek or find out more visit www.fallscreek.com.au