SPRINGTIME is a great season for Dinner Plain, it's one where the snowy playground joins the delights of high country sunshine.
The quiet mountain village, just 10 minutes beyond Mount Hotham, sits above the snow line at 1550m above sea level.
You can drive to it from both Harrietville and Omeo and you won't pay any fees to enter this holiday village.
Set amongst the gnarled snow gums and alongside historic mountain cattleman's huts, it is a step back to the pioneering times of the region.
With the regular snow season generally finishing at the end of September, Dinner Plain maintains its cross country ski trails and the country's largest toboggan slope for springtime fun.
Neither of these rely on operating ski lifts so the September school holidays are definitely a great chance to enjoy this free family recreation in the North East's backyard.
When the snow finally melts, it's time for mountain biking to shine.
Dinner Plain's mountain bike park has been the quiet achiever over the years, a true low gravity park with fast, flowing trails and super easy return climb.
The big difference is the layout and trail profile has been carefully planned to give options for younger and less experienced riders too.
With in–village bike rentals, free trail maps and no fees to pay, it's a no brainer for an adventurous getaway.
Dinner Plain's backyard is the Alpine National Park so you can expect loads of exciting options to get away from the beaten track.
You can experience camping under the stars at the historic JB Plain cattleman's hut, or hike to the plunging 25m basalt cliff at Precipice Plain.
If you're looking for something more intensive, the Razorback walk to Mt Feathertop, or Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing are both essential items for any bucket list.
From Dinner Plain you can set your base and explore to your heart's content.
Eat and drink at an enviable range of quality outlets that include country pubs, high class dining, boutique gin bar and great value day–time treats.
Hotel High Plains (the biggest pub in town) launched their huge new beer garden last year with the smoker barbeque and smoked meat menu sure to be a hit again this spring and summer.
Australia's greatest snow play destination is likely to become your favourite green season escape as well so keep up to date with all that's happening via their website at www.visitdinnerplain.com.au/ or their socials.
