The article is written by Maddison Reynolds
Oh summer – it felt like you would last forever! The cool change has finally come around and its that time of year again that has us reaching for our ‘uggies’ (ugg boot/slippers). While it might feel like there’s little to do but rug-up and enter hibernation, the winter months are some of the best to explore new regions, start new activities and best of all, do all the things you’ve forgotten to do because you were at the beach. Turn off the heater and grab your scarf – here’s four things that are sure to make the most of your winter!
1. Hit the slopes!
Remember your winters in Val Thorens? Skiing all-day, partying all night. If the Australian sunshine had you distracted last European winter, never fear -Australia has plenty of slopes and après-resorts to fill that Charmonix sized hole in your heart.
The Kosciuszko National Park is home to Thredbo, one of Australia’s most popular ski resorts. Thredbo also has the largest vertical drop of any Australian ski resort, at 672 m. Ski packages start at $171 per person, per night. Head to their website for more details.
Still thirsty for more adventure? Take a short flight over to the adventure-sport capital of the world, New Zealand. Flights from Sydney in July start at just $250 return.
2. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
Remember all those hikes you googled in summer but never got around to? Winter is the perfect time of year to explore your cities array of national parks and coastal walks
With cooler weather and less crowds, that waterfall you’ve saved pictures of in your Instagram collection is bound to be 10x more beautiful up-close.
Winter is also the perfect time for overnight hiking. Visit your state’s national parks website for all the information you need to know before heading out.
3. Get Gigging
Splendour in the Grass is arguably the highlight of the year for Australian music. If you missed out on tickets to the four-day extravaganza, be sure to check out the Splendour side-shows taking place in capital cities around Australia.
The Wombats, Marmozets and Ben Howard have already announced their tour dates, but event organiser, Secret Sounds, says there is plenty more to come.
Keep an eye out for updates as tickets are sure to sell-out fast!
4. Shred for Summer
Still dreaming of those warm-nights and sun-drenched days? Get your body moving so you’re summer ready!
Winter is the best time to invest in your health so start a new sport, join a new gym or get yourself to a class you’ve been dying to try. Get training for August’s City to Surf fun-run, give Pilates another go, or check out F45 to see what all the hype’s about.
There’s no better way to warm up than to work up a sweat!
If you’ve tried and tested this list and you’re still feeling chill-ish, grab your favourite bikini and head north. It might be winter, but it is always warm somewhere in Australia.
