Australia is often associated with sunny beaches, a warm climate, and the iconic Outback. However, the country offers a diverse range of climates and landscapes, including some surprisingly cold places.
Some might think that the best suburbs to live in Australia are by the coast. And they’re not wrong. But for those who want to be a little more remote, with quick access to the slopes in the winter, Snowy Mountains in NSW or Mount Hotham in VIC could be ideal.
This guide explores the top cold places in Australia, perfect for a winter getaway or for anyone who loves the chill.
Top cold places in Australia
New South Wales
1. Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
Median house price: $671,000
The Snowy Mountains are a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, thanks to their snow-capped peaks and ski resort towns. Located in New South Wales, the range features Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, which often sees significant snowfall in the colder months.
- Popular ski resort towns
- Activities: skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing
- Stunning alpine scenery
2. Barrington Tops, New South Wales
Located in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, Barrington Tops is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed national park. Known for its subalpine climate, the park experiences cold winters, with snowfall occurring at higher elevations. Visitors can enjoy bushwalking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
3. Lithgow, New South Wales
Median house price: $496,000
Lithgow, situated on the western edge of the Blue Mountains, is a regional town with a rich industrial history. The area experiences cold winters with snowfall, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby snow-capped peaks and enjoying winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
4. Blue Mountains, New South Wales
Median house price: $899,000
The Blue Mountains, a beautiful mountainous region in New South Wales, experiences cold weather and occasional snowfall during winter months. Visitors can enjoy scenic attractions such as the Three Sisters and Wentworth Falls.
Compared to the $8 million median house price in the most expensive suburb in Australia, living in the Blue Mountains means you get a 3-bedroom house for under $800,000!
5. Charlotte Pass, New South Wales
Charlotte Pass is Australia’s coldest place, with winter temperatures often dropping well below freezing. Situated in the Snowy Mountains, the area offers pristine snow conditions and a variety of winter sports.
Tasmania
Tasmania, an island state located south of mainland Australia, is known for its cool climate and picturesque landscapes. The region experiences some of the country’s coldest temperatures, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a winter wonderland.
The main places are the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and Mount Wellington in Hobart.
6. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
- Snow-capped mountains
- Winter temperatures and snowfall
- Hiking and wildlife spotting
7. Mount Wellington, Hobart
- Average minimum temperatures in winter
- Snow falling in colder months
- Views of Hobart and surrounding areas
8. Stanley
Median house price: $532,500
Stanley, a picturesque coastal town in Tasmania, is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic charm. The town experiences a cool maritime climate, with cold winters and occasional snowfall on the surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy the town’s heritage buildings, local cuisine, and wildlife spotting.
Victoria
Victoria, located in the southeast of Australia, is home to several ski resorts and alpine villages. The state experiences colder weather and snowfall during winter, making it an ideal location for winter sports and outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for the best places to invest in Australia, you can consider investing in a ski resort home in Victoria that you lease out during the ski season.
9. Mount Hotham
- Known as the ‘powder capital’ of Australia
- Ski resort town: Dinner Plain
- Winter activities: skiing, snowboarding, snow play
10. Mount Buller
- Popular ski resort
- Accessible from Melbourne
- Snow sports and Alpine village
11. Ballarat
Median house price: $607,500
Ballarat, a regional city in Victoria, is known for its gold rush history, stunning architecture, and cold winters. The city experiences low temperatures and occasional snowfall, making it a popular destination for those seeking a winter experience close to Melbourne.
12. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Canberra, Australia’s capital city, experiences cold winters with frosty mornings and occasional snowfall. The city’s location at a higher elevation contributes to its colder climate. Visitors can explore the city’s cultural institutions, national parks, and nearby snow-capped mountains like the Brindabella Ranges.
The Coldest City Debate
Comparison Table: Cold Places in Australia
| Location | Median House Price | Average Winter Temp (°C) | Popular Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snowy Mountains, NSW | $671,000 | 2°C – 6°C | Skiing, Snowboarding, Hiking |
| Mount Hotham, VIC | $870,000 | -1°C – 5°C | Skiing, Snow Play |
| Ballarat, VIC | $607,500 | 3°C – 10°C | Historic Tours, Snowfall |
| Blue Mountains, NSW | $899,000 | 5°C – 10°C | Bushwalking, Sightseeing |
| Lithgow, NSW | $496,000 | 4°C – 9°C | Cross-Country Skiing, Hiking |
| Mount Wellington, TAS | $480,000 | 2°C – 7°C | Scenic Views, Wildlife Watching |
When it comes to the title of the coldest city in Australia, the competition often falls between two contenders: Canberra and Hobart.
Hobart weather, with its southern position, often records low temperatures, especially during winter.
In contrast, Canberra weather, influenced by its elevation, sees frosty mornings and cold nights, making it a frequent mention when discussing the coldest spots. For up-to-the-minute updates, one might check “weather Canberra” or “Hobart weather” forecasts.
Coldest Towns and Their Charm
When discussing the coldest towns in Australia, Guyra in New South Wales often takes a spotlight. However, the title of the coldest town in Australia is contended by several places, especially those in Tasmania and Victoria. If one’s looking for the coldest place in NSW, towns like Lithgow and Barrington Tops, as previously mentioned, rank high.
Current Cold Spots
For those who are curious about the coldest place in Australia right now or today, real-time weather platforms can give you an instant snapshot. Regions like Charlotte Pass or Mount Hotham often top the list, especially during peak winter.
Seasonal Chills
Interestingly, while many places warm up during summer, there are regions known as the coldest place in Australia in summer. Elevated areas and those with unique microclimates can still see chilly temperatures even in the warmer months.
State-wise Cold Records
Considering the coldest state in Australia, Tasmania often holds this title due to its southernmost position and unique climate. In contrast, if one is keen on exploring the coldest place in South Australia, places like the Flinders Ranges might pique interest.
Temperature Tidbits
Other honorable mentions include Melbourne, where the Melbourne weather can be unpredictable and often cooler compared to other major Australian cities.
Is Ballarat the coldest place in Australia? While it’s a frequently asked question, Ballarat, despite its chilly reputation, doesn’t always hold the top spot but is consistently among the coldest.
Cold places in other states
South Australia
- Snowfall in the Flinders Ranges and Mount Lofty Ranges
- Winter temperatures in Adelaide Hills
Western Australia
- Cold weather in the Stirling Range
- Snowfall in Bluff Knoll
Northern Territory
- Alice Springs’ winter temperatures
- Cold nights in the Red Centre
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: June-August is the peak winter season for most of these locations, offering snow sports, cozy getaways, and picturesque snowy landscapes.
- What to Pack: Bring warm jackets, gloves, waterproof boots, and layered clothing. Temperatures in places like Mount Hotham can drop below freezing.
- Local Dining: Be sure to try local pubs or cafes like Craig’s Royal Hotel in Ballarat for a warm, hearty meal after a day of exploring.
Seasonal Events
- Snowy Mountains Winter Festival: Held in June, this festival celebrates winter sports, with skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.
- Ballarat Winter Festival: Enjoy everything from ice skating to light shows, celebrating the city’s cool climate with a historic twist.
Common Questions about the Cold Places in Australia
How does the climate in Australia compare to the northern hemisphere?
Australia’s climate is diverse, but generally, it has milder winters than the northern hemisphere due to its location in the southern hemisphere.
Are there any cold places in Australia suitable for a winter holiday?
There are many cold places in Australia perfect for a winter holiday, such as the Snowy Mountains, Tasmania, and ski resorts in Victoria.
What is the coldest city in Australia?
The coldest city in Australia is Hobart, Tasmania, with its average temperature being the lowest among Australian capital cities during winter.
