Getting to Mt Hotham

Hotham village is located in the heart of the Victorian Alps, surrounded by Alpine National Park. Think snowgums, rolling mountain ridges, Man from Snowy River country… it's awe inspiring.

The village is at an elevation of 1750m, just below the summit of Mount Hotham (1861m) and is easily accessible via The Great Alpine Road - a fabulous touring route for both enthusiasts of motoring and the wilderness.

The Great Alpine Road runs from Wangaratta in the north of Victoria, to Bairnsdale in the south - and Mount Hotham lies in the centre. How far?

*Note: there is a road that cuts across from Glenrowan through Milawa rather than having to go all the way to Wangaratta, as shown below.

Alternatively you can catch a plane to Hotham Airport with 15 mins connections to Mt Hotham Village. Click on the timetable to the left.

The village can be reached via Bright, from the west, or via Omeo, from the East. The Omeo route is a little longer and the road from Bairnsdale to Omeo is twisty, but fun for the driving enthusiasts. The route via Bright/Harrietville is the most popular although caution is advised for the drive up the mountain. Both approaches offer magnificent scenic views.

Before you leave be sure to check the current road conditions. Over winter, especially after snow fall, the Harrietville road can close making it necessary to take the road via Omeo which very rarely closes. To check road conditions, call Mt. Hotham Resort Management Board Road Conditions:
(03) 5759 3531 or (03) 5759 3550, or check the web site.

For Melbourne drivers approaching from the west, travel along the Hume highway and take the Oxley turn-off via Milawa, just after the BP & McDonalds near Glenrowan. On this road, the area around Milawa is a popular wine producing area and there are several wineries that welcome visitors for cellar door tasting and sales.

For those coming from Sydney, take the Hume Highway to Albury-Wodonga and follow the snow signs to Yackandandah then turn off to Myrtleford, and onto Bright.

The most popular route from Adelaide is along the Murray to Yarrawonga, then down through Wangaratta, and onto Myrtleford and Bright.

This ski village lies well above the snow line with several km of driving along the snow covered road to be expected, however the roads are sealed and well maintained.

It is mandatory by law to carry chains when driving on the mountain during the ski season (meaning potential fines if you don't) and they must be fitted at the "Fit Chains Here" sign. At peak times there are chain fitting services available for a nominal fee. {Last time it cost me $10. Well worth not getting the hands cold if you ask me - Ed}

Click here for 'Tips on snow driving'

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