Budget Weekend Snow Tour staying at Southern Cross Motel

Planning a winter getaway that won’t break the bank? This Budget Weekend Snow Tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable escape to the snow, based in the comfortable Southern Cross Motel in Berridale. While it’s a no-frills option, it’s perfect for those wanting to experience the slopes without fuss or high costs, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious travelers or first-timers eager for a taste of snow.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it packs in two full days of skiing or snowboarding at Perisher or Thredbo—two of Australia’s best ski resorts. Second, the inclusive meals and cozy bunk cabins make it easy to relax and focus on the snow. Third, the group size, capped at 50, means you’ll get a social vibe without feeling crowded.

That said, one thing to consider is the strict cancellation policy—the booking is non-refundable, so plan carefully. Also, for those seeking specific gear, you’ll need to rent on-site, which might add a little extra to your experience.

This tour suits adventurers on a budget, newbies to skiing, or groups of friends who want an easy, fun snow weekend without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $470.49 per person, it offers a lot of value, including accommodation, transportation, and meals.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Accommodation at the Southern Cross Motel with cozy bunk cabins, plus meals like hotpot dinner.
• Two Days on the Slopes: Full day skiing or snowboarding at Perisher or Thredbo with flexible resort options.
• Convenient Logistics: Departures from Sydney and Canberra with organized pickups and transfers.
• Group Size: A friendly group of 35 to 50 people, balancing social fun with individual space.
• Limited Flexibility: Non-refundable policy and no mention of personalized equipment or private guides.

An In-Depth Look at the Snow Tour Experience

How the Tour Starts: Getting to Berridale

The tour kicks off with evening pickups from Sydney and Canberra, starting around 5:30 PM. Pickups are well-organized, with stops in Haymarket and Hurstville, plus a late-night stop in Canberra. From there, you’ll settle into the Southern Cross Motel in Berridale—a cozy base nestled in the snowy hills, offering simple but comfortable bunk rooms.

Traveling overnight means you arrive early in the morning, ready for a full day of skiing. The group size—usually between 35 and 50—strikes a good balance, making it easy to bond yet not feel crowded.

First Day: Hitting the Slopes at Perisher or Thredbo

The day begins at 6:00 AM with breakfast, giving everyone plenty of time to fuel up. Departing around 8:00 AM, the trip to Perisher or Thredbo is straightforward, with transport included. Once on the slopes, you’re free to spend the entire day skiing or snowboarding until activities wind down around 4:30 PM.

Travelers frequently mention the value of having all transport included—no worries about parking or navigating the mountain roads. The ski gear rental is available directly at the hotel, making it convenient for those who need equipment but don’t want to carry their own.

Evening: Relaxing with Hotpot and Cozy Vibes

Back at the Southern Cross Motel around 6:00 PM, you can unwind with the included hotpot dinner—an interactive, warming meal that’s perfect after a day in the snow. Guests often note the hotpot as a highlight, especially as it fosters socializing in a relaxed setting.

Second Day: More Snow, More Fun

The next day follows a similar rhythm, starting with continental breakfast at 6:00 AM, followed by a departure back to the slopes. With a slightly shorter skiing window (until 3:30 PM), you’ll still get a full day on the snow, enough for beginners to get familiar or for seasoned skiers to squeeze in extra runs.

Arriving back at the hotel around 6:30 PM, you’re free to relax or revisit the hotpot, this time with fresh energy. Many reviews mention how well-organized the day is, with plenty of time to enjoy the slopes without feeling rushed.

Final Day: Last Runs and Returning Home

On the third day, the routine is similar—early breakfast, a final stint on the slopes until 3:30 PM, then the journey back to Canberra or Sydney. Expect to arrive late evening, around 10:30–11:00 PM for Sydney, giving you time to collapse into bed after your snowy adventure.

Travelers highlight the efficient schedule, though some mention the long travel hours, which are unavoidable given the distance. Still, the comfort of organized transport makes it more manageable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are meals—two continental breakfasts and a hotpot dinner—which help keep costs down and the experience authentic. The accommodation in bunk cabins offers a basic but clean and comfortable stay, perfect for just resting after busy days. Also included are the transport from Sydney and Canberra to the ski resorts and a two-day national park pass—great for those planning to explore the mountain scenery.

Not included are lunch and dinner on the first and last evenings, gear hire, personal travel insurance, and personal items. Renting ski or snowboard gear is available at the hotel, but expect to pay extra. Travelers should budget for this and any personal spending.

How is the transportation?

The group departs via coach, with pickup points clearly organized, which is convenient and stress-free. The long hours on the bus are a trade-off for the affordability, but the comfort of the coach and the knowledge that all transport logistics are handled makes it worthwhile.

Is it suitable for beginners or experienced skiers?

The tour is suitable for most physical fitness levels, but a moderate fitness level is recommended. Since the itinerary is mostly about enjoying the slopes, both beginners and seasoned skiers can find value, especially given the flexibility at the resorts.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While the tour doesn’t have formal reviews posted, the operational details reveal some useful insights. Guests might find the hotpot dinner a highlight, as it encourages social bonding after a day on the snow. The late-night arrivals and early starts indicate a tour designed for maximum snow time, though travelers should be prepared for long travel hours.

The group size, capped at 50, fosters a lively atmosphere but still offers space for individual relaxation. The inclusive nature of transport, accommodation, and meals makes this a stress-free option, especially for first-timers or those who dislike planning every detail.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This snow tour is ideal for budget travelers, first-time snow visitors, or groups of friends who want a quick, affordable winter escape. It offers value through inclusive transport, meals, and cozy accommodation, with enough time to enjoy the slopes without the hassle of logistics.

It’s perfect for those who prioritize socializing and convenience over luxury, as the bunk cabins and group activities foster a fun, communal atmosphere. However, if you prefer personalized gear, private guides, or flexible schedules, you might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

This Budget Weekend Snow Tour offers a practical way to experience Australia’s snowy mountains without blowing your travel budget. The combination of organized transport, cozy accommodation, and full days on the slopes provides a straightforward, stress-free snow adventure.

While not the most luxurious option, it hits the key points for value, convenience, and fun. It’s best suited for adventurers eager for a quick, social, and affordable snow escape, especially if you’re okay with long travel hours and basic lodging.

For travelers seeking an easy entry to skiing or snowboarding, or simply wanting to enjoy a snowy weekend without the fuss, this tour delivers more than enough snow-filled memories—at a price that makes it all the more appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most fitness levels, and many travelers are first-timers or casual skiers. The resort options like Perisher and Thredbo cater to all skill levels, and rental gear is available at the hotel.

What meals are included in the tour?
Included are two continental breakfasts and a hotpot dinner on the first evening. Lunch and dinner on the other evenings are not provided, so plan for additional meals if needed.

Can I rent ski or snowboard gear?
Yes, gear hire is available at the hotel, which is convenient but will incur extra costs. It’s recommended to budget for equipment rental if you need it.

What is the accommodation like?
Guests stay in bunk cabins at the Southern Cross Motel in Berridale, which are simple, cozy, and functional—perfect for resting after a day on the slopes.

How long is the travel time to and from the ski resorts?
The journey from Berridale to Perisher or Thredbo takes about an hour or so each way. Long bus hours are part of the package, but organized transport makes it manageable.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure of your plans before booking.

Who should consider this tour?
It’s best for budget-conscious travelers, beginners, or groups seeking a social snow weekend with minimal planning hassle.

In summary, if you’re after an affordable, straightforward snow adventure with all the essentials covered, this tour checks most boxes. It’s a great way to dip your toes into winter sports or enjoy the snow with friends without the stress of organizing everything yourself.