Ski all day, party all night at Thredbo in New South Wales

 Here’s another good description by Flip Byrnes in Australian Traveller:

Thredbo: Split personality

Best for: Skiing all day, partying (in ski boots) all night.

In a nutshell: In an admittedly unusual analogy, Thredbo is like a mullet: all business in the front and party in the back. Located in a valley, one side is the slopeside; deep and steep with 14 lifts in over 480 hectares; while the other is the village, where lodges cling to the switchback road, and over 30 bars and restaurants see the schnapps flow like water.

But that’s where the analogy ends, for this resort is as chic and stylish as the Sydneysiders who go there. Outside ofVictoria, this is the only resort boasting a true in-resort village, and there’s nothing like staying where you’re playing. The perennial party lasting from June to September is a winner for big kids; Thredboland and the Mission Inflatable pool obstacle course a hit for little kids. And the terrain is full of nooks, crannies and natural features to explore.

Underrated run: Point your ski tips towards Golf Course Bowl for fresh snow. If not adverse to earning turns, Thredbo’s Dead Horse Gap is back-country intermediate and advanced bliss. Access is from the top of Karel’s T-bar, requiring a car convoy to return to Thredbo.

Best spot for an après: The Bistro is the obvious choice (02 6459 4200), but follow the ski instructors to the Black Bear Inn for schnapps in a Bavarian atmosphere. (blackbearinn.com.au) Or head down during ‘Cliquot in the Snow’, a week-long party, 29 July–4th August.

Local tip: Pay the National Park’s fee at the park entry gate. It results in 90% of the cost going towards the parks – as opposed to 30% if bought elsewhere.

More info: thredbo.com.au