Few things excite my children more than a bit of nutaryuk. ‘Nutaryuk’ is the Innuit word for ‘fresh snow’.
When writing this article, I investigated whether Innuits actually have 50 different words for ‘snow’ and it’s no myth. They also have hundreds of words to describe snow. So, there you go.
Having lived in Daylesford for a few winters now, we have had some fantastic mornings frolicking in fresh snow (henceforth called ‘nutaryuk’…by the Wroe family…well, mainly by me). So, where are the best places in our backyard to find the white stuff?
Around Daylesford, there are two places we head for, when the temperature drops and precipitation is forecast. Right near home is the truly beautiful Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. It’s all about elevation when snow-seeking and at 670m, this is a handy option. Even better, there’s a sensational café called Wombat Hill House, operated by the Lake House team. Grab a hot drink or full breaky after your adventure.
Our ‘secret spot’ (shhhhh) is Bullarto. At 750m, and a short drive from Daylesford, it’s a beautiful, forested area that can get deep snowfalls. The young girl in the photo is my daughter Lola in Bullarto a couple of years ago. While you’re there, pop into Bullarto Gallery. Artist Phillip Edwards paints exquisite Aussie alpine landscape paintings. And he’s a great guy to chat with.
Further east, the charming village of Trentham often gets snow, and the nearby Wombat State Forest is a great spot for photographers. The forest is beautiful year-round but has a quiet, serene beauty when adorned with snow. Afterwards, be sure to pop into one of the many cafés or pubs found in Trentham.
Arguably the best spot in our region for snow play is Mount Macedon, which is just on 1000m high. Top of the Range café has a live snow cam – so you can check the situation before you go – and is a great place to warm up after your fun. Nearby Camels Hump is another great option, also topping out at a kilometre above sea level. Head to the Camels Hump carpark and take a short walk from there. The views are unforgettable.
If you’re not near us when it snows, you’ll need to be quick. It’s rare that snow cover lasts beyond mid-morning. So, check the weather forecast and plan ahead. Whether you’re eight or eighty, you won’t be able to keep the smile off your face.
Hero image by Jay Town @jaytown1
About the author
Steve Wroe, Daylesford Macedon Tourism
Steve’s passion for mountain biking takes him all around our region. He lives in Daylesford with his wife, two young girls and three chickens. On most weekends, he and his family explore; either piling into the car and taking a drive to a small town, or putting on the hiking boots and going for a bushwalk. Steve is a big believer in the benefits of rural living and loves introducing his girls to the history, culture and nature of the region. Occasionally they take their bantam chook, Lulu, on their adventures.
- Steve Wroe, Daylesford Macedon Tourismhttps://daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au/author/steve-wroe-daylesford-macedon-tourism/November 20, 2018
- Steve Wroe, Daylesford Macedon Tourismhttps://daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au/author/steve-wroe-daylesford-macedon-tourism/November 5, 2019
- Steve Wroe, Daylesford Macedon Tourismhttps://daylesfordmacedonlife.com.au/author/steve-wroe-daylesford-macedon-tourism/February 28, 2020
Share this article
Come Back to Life
Come and explore our beautiful region, it’s the perfect place to unwind, recharge and rejuvenate. The best bit, we’re only an hour or so from Melbourne.
While You're Here
Hiking For Autumn Colour
We’ve heard it all before – the benefits of nature as therapy, but have you stopped, stretched and…
Interview with Josh – Rainbow Eggs
Charming and full of exuberance is seventeen-year-old Josh from Rainbow Eggs.
The Artful Winter Garden
Winter - the very word induces a long sigh and slows the breathing. As a gardener in a cool…
Where do the Locals in the Daylesford Macedon Ranges Go?
It's often the first thing you wonder when you travel: 'Where do the locals go? That's sure to be…
Health & Wellness,Eat & Drink,Shopping,Outdoor Experiences,History & Culture
A Splash Back In Time
We might be living in a country girt by sea, but the closest thing to the ocean out here in Central…
Treasure Towns
A visit to central Victoria can uncover sensory and scenic treasures, not unlike the historical…