posted on June 26, 2024
Situated amongst the spectacular Victorian Alps of the Great Dividing Range and just a 40 minute drive from Harrietville, Mount Hotham is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking panoramic alpine views and mountain ranges.
If you’re wondering how to make the journey from Harrietville to Mt Hotham, we’ve got you covered with the best transport options to suit every budget (as well as the perfect driving itinerary).
4 ways you can get from Harrietville to Mt Hotham
When it comes to making the journey from Harrietville to Mt Hotham, you’ll find a range of options to suit your needs.
From a drive that allows you to take in the scenery and make detours to attractions of your choosing to a budget-friendly bus trip, here are your top options when it comes to making the journey.
Drive from Harrietville to Mt Hotham
The best way to travel from Harrietville to Mt Hotham is by car.
- The drive from Harrietville to Mt Hotham is short, but the Great Alpine Road certainly delivers incredible scenery at every turn.
- Regardless of the season, be sure to stick to a safe speed as you can expect hairpin turns and steep narrow roads along this route.
- A small, compact car can manage this drive as well as a luxury SUV, but make sure you are prepared if travelling during the winter months by carrying snow chains and following all signage carefully. Rent the perfect car for your journey on Turo.
An overview of the drive:
- Driving distance: 30.8 kilometres
- Driving time: 40 minutes
- Suggested route:
- From Harrietville, head South on the Great Alpine Road/B500 towards Mountain View Walk.
- Continue along the winding road until you reach your destination of Mount Hotham.
- Best for: The Great Alpine Road is an incredibly scenic drive, offering plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and detours where you can venture to panoramic lookouts. This makes it well-suited for couples, solo travellers, and families who have the time to make detours and experience the beauty of the region at their own pace.
Harrietville to Mt Hotham bus
During the winter ski season, you can get a bus from Harrietville to Mt Hotham. Mount Hotham bus tickets will need to be booked online ahead of departure as popularity during this time of year can see seats fill up quickly. If travelling with ski or snowboard equipment, it’s also advised that you view luggage policies, as some bus operators have a limit as to how much equipment each passenger can bring.
- Cost: A one-way ticket from Harrietville to Mt Hotham starts at $15
- Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
- Route:
- Harrietville Pioneer Park – Opposite Hoy’s
- Hotham Heights – Hotham Tourist Lounge (+40 minutes from Harrietville)
- Hotham Heights – Arlberg (+50 minutes from Harrietville)
- Hotham Heights Spiral Stairs (+50 minutes from Harrietville)
- Hotham Heights Big D (+55 minutes from Harrietville)
- Hotham Heights Jack Frost (+55 minutes from Harrietville)
- Schedule: During peak season from 29th June to 21st July, you can expect buses from Harrietville at 7:10am, 8:35am, and 3:25pm Monday to Sunday. Be sure to check the public transport Victoria website ahead of departure.
- Tickets: With more people requesting bus services during the winter months, we recommend booking your ticket online ahead of time from Hotham Bus or other service providers.
- Best for: Solo travellers and adventurers looking for a budget-friendly option.
- Services:
- Hotham Bus which runs services from Harrietville to Hotham during the ski season
- Snowball Express which operates services to Mt Hotham from various locations, including Harrietville during the ski season from 23rd June to 25th September.
Harrietville to Mt Hotham taxi
While bus services operate mostly during the winter months, you’ll be able to book a private taxi from Harrietville to Mt Hotham year-round. These can be booked in advance and typically run multiple times a day to ensure convenience for travellers looking to make the journey.
- Cost: While rates vary depending on the private taxi company and services booked, you can typically expect to pay $165 for a private transfer from Harrietville to Mt Hotham one-way.
- Duration: Approximately 38 minutes
- Services: You’ll find a range of private taxi services available, each of which offers different costs and varied schedules. You can also choose between vans, 4WDs, and ride sharing options. Consider the main services below:
- Snow Taxi
- Hotham Taxi
For your journey from Harrietville to Mt Hotham, consider renting a car on Turo. Whether you need a compact car for navigating the winding roads, a luxury SUV for added comfort, or a rugged 4WD for winter conditions, Turo has you covered. With Turo, you’ll find unique cars ready to be delivered by local hosts, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable road trip.
Things to know before you get going
Boasting the only resort in the Southern Hemisphere located atop a mountain, Mt Hotham village also provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature thanks to exhilarating views of mountain ranges and snow-capped peaks.
Before you hit the road or choose another transport option to Mt Hotham, consider these tips and guidelines to ensure you’re prepared for the journey.
- Best time to visit Mt Hotham: Mt Hotham is open year-round, but winter proves to be the most popular time for visits due to the snowfall and opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Even so, the warmer months still make for a great adventure at Mt Hotham, as you’ll be able to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
- Best vehicle for the drive: The drive from Harrietville to Mt Hotham is accessible for any vehicle. However, if you’re visiting during the winter months of June to October, the roads can be icy due to heavy snowfall. Be sure to carry snow chains in your vehicle and fit them when required at designated chain fitting bays along the route, even if driving a 4WD.
- Driving conditions: All vehicles entering Mt Hotham or staying overnight must carry wheel chains by law. These can be hired before arrival in Myrtleford, Bright, or Harrietville. It’s also recommended that you fill up at these locations as there are no fuelling options available at Mt Hotham. Hoys Harrietville Ski Centre offers snow chains and snow clothing hire for those who need them. With locations in Harrietville, Mt Hotham, and Dinner Plain, this ski hire outlet is a great stop to get any essentials before arriving at the top Australian ski resort.
- Accommodation: Once in Mt Hotham, you’ll find a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Consider Alpine Haven, 1750 Apartments, Arlberg Hotham, Shamrock, and Mountain Dreaming apartments, all of which offer unbeatable views of the surroundings. If you need assistance with luggage, Hotham’s Snow Tow Oversnow luggage and passenger service also offer assistance.
- Accessibility: All vehicles stopping at Mt Hotham must pay a resort entry fee before passing through the toll point, where vehicle registration will be recorded electronically. These can be purchased at mthotham.com.au. For vehicles simply passing through without stopping, a permit is not required.
Getting to Harrietville from Melbourne
For those travelling from Melbourne, you might first be wondering how to get to Harrietville. Follow the directions below to ensure a seamless journey from Melbourne.
- Total driving time: 4 hours 11 minutes
- Total distance: 345 kilometres
- Suggested route:
- Take the Citylink/M2 in North Melbourne from Bourke Street as you head towards Dynon Road/State Route 50.
- Then, take National Highway M31 to Snow Road/C522 in Wangaratta South.
- Take exit C522 from National Highway M31 towards Milawa.
- Turn right onto Snow Road/C522 before turning right onto Great Alpine Road/B500.
- At the roundabout, take the first exit to stay on Great Alpine Road before you arrive at your destination.
Top activities and things to do in Mt Hotham
Travelling with kids, alone, or with a partner? There’s no shortage of things to see and do around Mt Hotham, but the hardest part is simply choosing which activities fit into your schedule.
Top stops for families
- Alpine hikes: If you’re looking to hike through stunning scenery in the summer months, consider a guided tour with a half-day Hike’n’Feast Huts Walk. The eco-friendly tour makes for an incredible family experience as you learn more about the region while taking in the stunning surroundings.
- Davenport playground: If you’re travelling with young kids, don’t look past the Davenport Playground and Pump Track where you can see them play on Australia’s highest playground. With slides, swings, and plenty more activities, you’ll be able to burn some energy while taking in unbeatable views.
- Davenport Trampoline: Situated in Davenport, this trampoline offers fun for people of all ages. With picnic tables nearby, it’s the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a picnic, soak up the scenery, and have some fun while releasing some energy on the trampoline.
Top stops for couples
- Joyce Brockhoff Hut: If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to enjoy a picnic at Joyce Brockhoff Hut at the top of Heavenly Valley. Simply hike along the Loch Ridge and Machinery Spur Track before coming to the little hut with incredible views and tables allowing you to enjoy a feed in nature.
- Eco-glamping: Alpine Nature Experience offers eco-glamping in Mt Hotham, making for a unique couples experience. Sleep under the stars in their cosy tree tents as you enjoy the high country like never before.
- Davenport Petanque court: This BYO petanque or bowls set makes for a fun couples challenge. Boules are available from the resort management during office hours, so you can challenge one another to play a game.
- Four-Wheel Driving in the High Country: With Mt Hotham being home to some of the most challenging 4WD terrain, you’ll want to rent a vehicle and take to the tracks. From ridge lines, creek crossings, and endless valleys, this is the ultimate destination for those seeking an off-road driving adventure.
Top stops for solo travellers
- Swindlers Creek: Fancy a fish? Bring your fishing line and some delicious snacks and enjoy a peaceful afternoon fishing along Swindlers Creek next to the Plains of Heaven. With an open grass area, it’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind amidst the tranquil setting.
- Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing: If you fancy a hike, don’t look past this iconic three-day walk through the Alpine National Park that links Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. You’ll take in snow gum woodlands, grass plains, rocky summits, and historic huts on this rewarding hiking challenge that’s accessible from November to April.
- Cycling the Great Alpine Road: With unbeatable views and great challenges in the form of steep hills and winding roads, the Great Alpine Road makes for an epic cycling adventure. Passing through Mt Buffalo, Mt Feathertop, and the high plains, you’ll take in alpine scenery and impressive climbs.
- Alpine Running: Fancy a run through the trails of Mt Hotham? Alpine Running offers guided trail runs throughout the year, so you can hone your skills on the terrain, get fit while on holiday, or simply tour the area on foot.
Frequently asked questions about the Harrietville to Mt Hotham journey
Do you need snow chains to drive from Harrietville to Mt Hotham?
Yes – snow chains are mandatory and must be carried by all vehicles entering Mt Hotham or staying overnight.
With this being said, you won’t need snow chains before you get to Harrietville – this is because it is located at a lower elevation and doesn’t experience heavy snowfall.
Do you have to pay to drive through Mt Hotham?
Yes, there are entry fees when it comes to entering Mt Hotham with fees varying depending on the duration of your visit and the type of vehicle. If you’re planning on visiting frequently or staying for a length of time, consider buying a seasonal pass.
Final tips for your Harrietville to Mt Hotham journey
Whether you’re looking for summer mountain biking tracks, fishing spots, or hiking trails, or you want to hit the ski slopes during the snow season and soak up the atmosphere of Australia’s premier alpine resort, a visit to Mt Hotham makes for an unforgettable experience.
With plenty of detours to be made along the way and sights to see, it’s worth taking the time to explore at your own pace. On Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host. Discover Melbourne car rental on Turo today.
Keep the drive going and discover 12 of the best road trips in Victoria. If you’re heading back to the city, don’t miss the very best road trip itineraries starting from Melbourne.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
