Freestyle paradise found at Perisher in New South Wales, Australia

I’ve never been skiing in Australia, but I knew they get snow. So I’m checking out stories by Aussie writers to learn more. Here’s a good description by Flip Byrnes in Australian Traveller:

If you haven’t been to the New South Wales ski fields lately, prepare yourself for a surprise because they have been evolving. Flip Byrnes finds out which one is best for you.

Perisher: Freestyle Paradise

Best for: Everyone – with room to move.

In a nutshell: Perisher is bigger than Ben Hur and bigger IS better. The linked areas of Guthega, Blue Cow, Perisher and Smiggins Hole create 1245 hectares of riding accessed by 47 lifts. With statistics like these, it’s no wonder winter Olympic athletes call Perisher home (gold medallist Torah Bright and former world snowboarding champions Holly Crawford and Nate Johnstone are Perisher alumni), while the five terrain parks, Rider X course and Superpipe draw freestylers from around the globe.

But even if throwing down corkscrew 580s isn’t your thing, the many pockets of the resort offer something for all, from the beginner’s Magic Carpet at Perisher to double black Devil’s Playground at Blue Cow. Perisher misses the magic of the village atmosphere of Thredbo or Victorian resorts, but if it’s downhill you want, it’s downhill they’ve got.

Underrated run: Anywhere in Guthega, the over-looked, far-flung corner of the resort. The sheltered, tree-lined runs are tranquil even on the busiest days, and on a powder day, this is the place to be. Refuel at the Burning Log Restaurant (02 6459 4692) with Main Range views.

Best spot for an après: By the fireplace at the Perisher Valley Hotel (with free wi-fi).

Local tip: The Station in nearby Jindabyne offers killer lift, accommodation and meal packages. (perisher.com.au/the-station) Pause pre-ski at Sundance Bakehouse in Jindabyne (02 6456 2951) – all goods are baked on premises and they open from 6:00am.

More info: perisher.com.au