Melbourne Snow Trip to Lake Mountain with Chocolates & Waterfalls

Planning a quick snowy escape from Melbourne? This day tour to Lake Mountain offers a straightforward way to enjoy winter scenery without the hassle of driving yourself through icy roads. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one experience that combines snow fun, scenic waterfalls, and sweet treats. We’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if this trip fits your adventure style.

What really catches our eye about this tour is how it manages to pack in so much—from snow activities to waterfalls and chocolate tastings—all in one day. The fact that it’s designed to be family-friendly, with a modern coach and a knowledgeable guide, makes it appealing for travelers of all ages. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather and snow conditions, which can influence what’s available on the day. Still, if you’re looking for a convenient and varied day trip that lets you dip your toes into winter fun, this might just be a solid pick.

Ideal for those who want an effortless way to experience snow, enjoy scenic stops, and indulge in some chocolates, this tour caters well to first-timers and families alike. If you’re okay with some uncertainties around snow levels or the trip being a bit rushed at certain stops, then this could be a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation with a comfortable, modern coach and expert driver-guide
• Includes access to Lake Mountain Alpine Resort and chocolate samples
• Flexible snow activities like tobogganing, cross-country skiing, or simple snowman-building
• Spectacular waterfalls in Steavenson Falls offering great photo opportunities
• A sweet finish at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie with over 150 types of chocolates to taste
• Weather-dependent snow conditions can affect the snow experience but the waterfalls and chocolates remain reliable highlights

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour is crafted to make a day in the snow both easy and fun without needing to worry about the logistics. Starting early from Melbourne’s CBD, the journey itself sets a relaxed tone—you’re in a comfortable coach, often with onboard Wi-Fi to catch up on photos or relax before the day’s adventures. It’s a full-day trip, approximately 10 hours, but with well-paced stops that keep things interesting without feeling rushed.

The Journey to Lake Mountain

You’ll leave Melbourne around 8:00 am, heading through the scenic landscape of the Yarra Valley, renowned for its wineries and gourmet produce. The drive is about an hour long, passing through lush countryside and mountain views, giving you a taste of Victoria’s natural beauty. The first stop is at Healesville, where you can buy breakfast at Beechworth Bakery—an appreciated chance to fuel up before the snow.

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

Once at Lake Mountain, you’ll discover why it’s the closest snow resort to Melbourne. The resort offers around 23 miles (37 km) of cross-country ski trails, open meadows, and toboggan slopes. The variety of activities means you can tailor your snow day to suit your mood—tobogganing (own expense), cross-country skiing, snowman building, or simply soaking in the frosty scenery.

What’s great here is the flexibility. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable it is to spend about three hours on the mountain, with plenty of time to relax and have fun. You can rent snow gear and equipment at the resort, but these are at your own expense, so planning ahead with your own waterproof gear can make the experience more comfortable.

The Waterfalls and Nature Walk

After your snow time, the tour continues to Steavenson Falls, one of Victoria’s tallest and most impressive waterfalls, plunging nearly 400 feet (122 meters). The guided walk to the viewing platform offers a chance to appreciate the powerful cascades amidst a forested setting. Many guests have called this stop a highlight, describing the falls as “spectacular” and a great photo opportunity.

Sweet Finale at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie

Next is a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, which is a hit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Over 150 kinds of chocolates are on display, with sampling opportunities including house-made cocoa treats and ice cream. Many reviews praise this stop as a perfect way to unwind and indulge after a busy day. The chocolate shop is also a lovely place to pick up souvenirs—think boxed truffles, single-origin bars, and chocolate-covered nuts.

Return to Melbourne

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Melbourne, arriving around 6:00 pm. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the day—your snow adventures, the waterfalls, and the chocolates—while comfortably seated on the coach.

Diving Into the Details: What To Expect at Each Stop

Healesville Bakery

This initial stop is a quick 30-minute break, giving you the chance to pick up breakfast or snacks for the day. Many travelers appreciate this pause as a good way to start the trip relaxed and ready. It’s an easy, no-pressure moment before heading into the mountain.

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort

The heart of the tour, this is where the snow fun unfolds. You’ll gain access to the resort’s extensive cross-country ski trails, open meadows, and toboggan slopes. The resort’s layout encompasses snow-covered landscapes that beg for photo ops and moments of play. You can rent gear on-site, but keep in mind, the costs are separate—$27 for pants and shoes as of July 2025, which can add up if you’re not bringing your own.

A common theme in reviews is how much people enjoy simply building snowmen, sliding down slopes, or trying cross-country skiing—activities that don’t require advanced skills. However, if you’re after downhill skiing or snowboarding, this tour doesn’t cover that, and you’d need additional arrangements.

Steavenson Falls

A short drive from the resort is the impressive Steavenson Falls, where you’ll enjoy a gentle walk to see the cascading water plunging through the forest. This stop is often praised for its breathtaking scenery—almost everyone agrees it’s worth the visit. If you’re a fan of waterfalls or just enjoy scenic nature, you’ll find this a peaceful and photo-worthy moment.

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

This stop is a personal favorite for many. Over 150 chocolates, house-made cocoa, and ice cream options make it a sweet haven. Many reviews highlight the quality and variety, with some noting that the chocolate samples are generous. It’s a perfect place to relax, take pictures, and maybe pick up some treats to take home.

The Reviews: Authentic Insights from Travelers

The overwhelmingly positive feedback speaks volumes. Many guests mention how knowledgeable guides like Lauren and Peter enhanced their day, sharing local stories and making the experience more engaging. One review notes that Lauren’s “clear instructions” and “history knowledge” made the trip especially enjoyable.

The snow, for many, is the main draw. Several travelers describe their first experience of snow as “magical” or “beyond beautiful,” emphasizing how the scenic landscape and peaceful atmosphere add to the charm. One guest shared, “Melbourne snow is absolutely magical! It feels like stepping into a winter wonderland,” which encapsulates the general sentiment.

Waterfalls like Steavenson are also consistently praised, with travelers calling them “spectacular” and “the highlight of the trip.” The chocolate stops often get glowing reviews, with comments about the variety and quality of chocolates, and how it’s a perfect way to end the day.

However, not all experiences are perfect. Some travelers point out that the snow levels can vary; in seasons with less snowfall, the snow activities might be limited or less impressive. One review mentioned feeling disappointed that there was no real snow or that the artificial snow wasn’t as effective. Also, some found the stops at waterfalls and chocolate shops a bit rushed—about 15-20 minutes at the waterfall and 30 minutes at the chocolate shop.

The bus experience can also vary—some mention motion sickness or crowded conditions, especially during peak times or school holidays. Bringing your own waterproof gear is recommended since rental gear can be pricey, and snow conditions might not always meet expectations, particularly in warmer seasons.

Transportation and Practicalities

The trip uses a modern, heated coach, which is appreciated in winter, and the group size maxes out around 38 travelers, ensuring it’s not too crowded. The driver-guide, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, makes a big difference in smoothing out the journey.

The tour is priced at about $112.61 per person, which includes entrance to Lake Mountain and the waterfall stops. Given the convenience—no need to arrange your own transport, plus the included stops and tastings—the price offers decent value, especially considering the expert guidance and variety of activities.

Meals are not included, so you should bring or buy breakfast and lunch along the way. The on-site café offers options at the resort, but many reviews suggest bringing your own snacks if you want to save time and money.

Weather and Snow Conditions

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress warmly and be prepared for rain or shine. Snow conditions can fluctuate—some seasons may see less snow or even artificial snow, which might impact your experience if snow activities are a priority. Checking seasonal forecasts before booking can help set expectations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one day trip that balances snow fun with scenic waterfalls and a sweet treat, this tour suits a wide range of travelers. It’s especially good for first-timers or families who want a hassle-free experience without the need to drive or plan complex logistics. Nature lovers will appreciate the waterfalls and mountain views, while chocolate fans will love ending the day indulging in local confections.

That said, if you’re looking for serious downhill skiing or guaranteed snow, this might not meet your expectations, especially in seasons with minimal snowfall. Plus, those sensitive to bus travel or motion sickness should consider bringing remedies or preparing accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne Snow Trip to Lake Mountain, combined with waterfalls and chocolates, delivers a well-rounded winter day that’s accessible and enjoyable. The guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude, paired with the scenic stops, make it a trip worth considering—especially if you’re new to snow or prefer a stress-free approach.

While snow conditions can fluctuate, the waterfalls and chocolate shop remain reliably beautiful and tasty highlights. It’s a tour that offers a bit of everything—nature, fun, and sweet indulgence—in a single day. Perfect for those who want an easy, memorable escape from city life that suits families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially since many reviews mention children enjoying the snow and chocolate stops. However, always consider your child’s comfort with bus travel and outdoor activities.

How long is the trip?
The whole day lasts about 10 hours, with the departure around 8:00 am and return by approximately 6:00 pm.

Are meals included?
No, meals are at your own expense. You can buy breakfast at the stop in Healesville or at the resort café.

Do I need to bring my own snow gear?
You can rent gear on-site, but it’s at your own expense ($27 for pants and shoes). Bringing your own waterproof clothing can be more comfortable and cost-effective.

What happens if there’s no snow?
If snow levels are low, snow activities may be limited or replaced with other scenic stops. The waterfalls and chocolate tasting will still be part of the experience.

Is the coach comfortable?
Yes, the coach is modern and heated, with some guests noting the onboard Wi-Fi makes the journey more enjoyable.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is about 38 travelers, making it a relatively intimate experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip, with a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, especially waterproof and thermal clothing. Check the weather forecast before packing.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
Most reviews say the timing is good, but some felt stops like the waterfall and chocolate factory could be a bit rushed, around 15-30 minutes each.

Hopefully, this detailed look helps you decide if this tour is the winter escape you’re seeking—simple, scenic, and some tasty fun along the way.