How to Get to Mt Buller: Travel & Parking Guide
If you’re planning your first snow trip, one of the most important details to get right is how to get to Mt Buller. From the best travel options to parking and shuttle services, knowing your choices in advance can save you time, money, and plenty of stress.
This guide walks you through the best Mt Buller travel options, explains the Mt Buller parking guide, and highlights where to stay for easy slope access
Why Planning Your Mt Buller Trip Matters
A snow holiday is meant to be fun and exciting. But if you arrive unprepared, whether it’s not knowing where to park, how to get to the village, or which transport option works best, you’ll end up wasting valuable ski time.
Avoid Stress & Save Time
Getting to the snow is exciting, but it also comes with a few logistical challenges. By planning your trip before you leave, you can avoid most of the headaches that catch first-time visitors off guard.
Here’s why it matters:
- Don’t spend hours circling for a park
Parking at Mt Buller fills quickly, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Without a plan, you might waste valuable time driving between car parks looking for a spot. Booking your resort entry and parking online gives you clear instructions on where to go, so you can head straight there without guesswork. - Know exactly which shuttle or transfer you need
If you’re not driving, it’s important to book the right bus, coach, or transfer service in advance. Some run directly from Melbourne or Tullamarine Airport, while others connect from Mansfield. Planning this ahead means no missed connections and less waiting around in the cold. - Save time at the resort entrance
Pre-paying for resort entry online not only guarantees access but also lets you bypass queues at the gate. This simple step can save you half an hour or more on a busy weekend, which adds up to more time skiing and less time stuck in your car. - Avoid last-minute costs
Booking shuttles, entry, and parking in advance often comes with lower fees than paying on the day. It’s not just time you’ll save; it’s money too.
Make the Most of Your Snow Holiday
Your snow holiday isn’t just about getting to Mt Buller, it’s about making the most of every moment once you’re there. Planning ahead allows you to relax and enjoy the mountain without unnecessary stress.
Here’s how it helps:
- Maximise your ski time
When you know where to park, how to use the shuttles, and what times transfers run, you’ll spend less time figuring things out and more time on the slopes. That means you get better value out of your lift passes and lessons. - Enjoy a smoother start each morning
If you’ve already sorted your parking or shuttle passes, mornings become much easier. Instead of rushing around trying to figure out logistics, you can focus on gearing up and getting onto the snow early. - Stay energised and relaxed
Stress drains energy fast. By eliminating small worries, like where your car is parked or how to get back to your accommodation, you’ll have more energy to enjoy skiing, dining, and exploring the village. - Make space for fun extras
With logistics handled, you can spend time on the things that matter: trying a new run, joining an après-ski session, or simply soaking in the mountain views.
Taking just 15–20 minutes to research Mt Buller travel options before your trip ensures you’ll arrive calm, prepared, and ready to enjoy every part of your holiday.
Best Ways to Travel to Mt Buller
Getting to Mt Buller is straightforward, and there are options to suit every type of traveller, whether you’re looking for independence, affordability, or complete convenience. The key is choosing the method that best matches your budget, schedule, and comfort level.
Driving from Melbourne
Driving remains the most popular way to reach Mt Buller.
- Distance & Time: The mountain is about 230 km from Melbourne, taking roughly three hours in good conditions.
- Routes:
- Eastern & South-Eastern Melbourne: Use the Maroondah Highway via Healesville, Yarra Glen, and Yea. This route is scenic and popular with those seeking a leisurely drive.
- Northern or Western Melbourne: Take the Hume Highway through Seymour and Yea, generally the faster option, especially during peak periods.
- North-Eastern suburbs: A viable alternative is via Whittlesea and Yea, often preferred by locals in those areas.
- Scenic alternative: For extra visual interest (and if you don’t mind the longer drive), you can go via Healesville, then through Taggerty, Eildon, and Jamieson. Adds roughly 90 minutes but is highly scenic
Both routes converge at Mansfield before you take the winding Mt Buller Road up to the resort.
- Resort Entry & Fees: All visitors heading to Mt Buller are required to pay an entry and parking fee. By booking online before you travel, you can save up to 20% and head straight to the car parks without stopping at the Mirimbah gate.
- Flexibility & Space: Driving gives you freedom to leave when you like, stop for food or fuel, and pack plenty of gear without worrying about luggage limits. Many people also stop in Mansfield to stock up on groceries, hire equipment, or grab a hot coffee before tackling the mountain road.
- Driving Tips:
- Carry snow chains, as they may be required depending on conditions.
- Fill your tank in Mansfield, there’s no petrol station on the mountain.
- Allow extra time on weekends or school holidays when traffic is heavier.
Public Transport Options
For those who don’t drive, or simply want to avoid the responsibility of mountain roads, public transport to Mt Buller is a reliable alternative.
- V/Line Train/Coach to Mansfield, then Bus
The standard year-round option is to take a V/Line train or coach from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Mansfield, then connect with a Mansfield Mt Buller Bus Lines (MMBL) service to Mt Buller Village. From there, you’ll arrange your own transfer to your lodge. - Official V/Line Snow Coach (Winter Only)
Running during the snow season, this service combines all legs of the journey into one ticket: a V/Line coach from Melbourne to Mansfield, an MMBL service to the village, and a Ride Share transfer directly to your accommodation. - Direct Melbourne to Mt Buller Coaches
If you’d like a more straightforward trip, operators like BullerBus, Alzburg Tours, and Extragreen Holidays offer direct services from Melbourne to Mt Buller Village. They vary from affordable return coaches with Wi-Fi to premium transfers that include resort entry or even direct lodge drop-off. - Mansfield to Mt Buller Final Leg
From Mansfield, both V/Line and MMBL run regular services up the mountain, taking about an hour. This is handy if you’ve driven only part of the way and prefer not to handle the alpine roads.
Why choose public transport?
- Affordable: Cheaper than private transfers.
- Eco-friendly: Reduces traffic and emissions.
- Hassle-free: No need for chains, resort entry, or parking.
The trade-off is flexibility; you’re tied to timetables, and the trip can take longer than self-driving. But for solo travellers or those packing light, it’s a smart option.
Shuttle Services and Transfers
If convenience is your priority, shuttle services and transfers offer a more comfortable way to reach Mt Buller.
- Airport Shuttles: Several operators run direct services from Melbourne and Tullamarine Airport, making them perfect if you’re flying in with ski gear.
- Mansfield Shuttles: Park your car in Mansfield and take a shuttle for the final stretch, avoiding the steep mountain drive.
- Door-to-Door Transfers: Premium operators pick you up from your home, hotel, or airport and deliver you straight to your Mt Buller accommodation, ideal for families or groups wanting zero hassle.
- Oversnow Transfers: Once you’re on the mountain, oversnow taxis and shuttles make it easy to move between car parks, the village, and lodges with luggage in tow.
Once you’ve arrived on the mountain, getting around is simple:
- Free Village Shuttles run regularly, linking car parks, ski lodges, and lifts.
- Oversnow Taxis are available for direct transport, especially helpful if you’re carrying luggage or arriving late.
These services cost more than standard public transport but give you maximum comfort and a stress-free start to your holiday.
Mt Buller Parking Guide
Parking on the mountain is simple once you know the rules. Here’s a breakdown of the Mt Buller parking guide:
Day Parking:
Day parking is located just 1–4 km below Mt Buller Village, along the access road from the Mirimbah entry point. Upon arrival, parking attendants will direct you to the nearest available spot among the 11 designated lots. Day visitors can then:
- Catch the free shuttle bus to the Village (note: shuttles typically don’t accept large luggage or ski gear)
- Or ride the Northside Express chairlift directly from some of the car parks to the slopes.
A smart tip: snap a photo of your car’s location (lot number or surroundings) to easily find it later.
Overnight Parking:
Overnight parking is also situated 2–4 km below the Village, a bit farther down the mountain than the day car parks.
When you arrive, attendants will guide you to your assigned space, and it’s essential to take note of it; photos help a lot when returning.
From there, you’ll need to arrange a Ride Share transfer or pre-booked private transfer to get you and your luggage up to your accommodation, as access directly into the Village by private vehicles isn’t allowed.
Village Access and Shuttles
- Free Village Shuttles run regularly, connecting parking areas with the village and accommodation.
- Oversnow taxis are also available for direct drop-off if you prefer convenience.
- Staying in a ski-in, ski-out property like Arlberg House means you can step straight onto the slopes without worrying about daily parking.
Where to Stay Near the Action
Once you’ve figured out how to get to Mt Buller, choosing the right place to stay makes the whole trip smoother.
Why Arlberg Mt Buller is the Top Choice
For unbeatable convenience, Arlberg House is the ultimate accommodation for snow lovers. Here’s why:
- Ski-in, ski-out location right on Bourke Street, no need to rely on village shuttles daily.
- On-site facilities including gear hire, dining, and cosy lounges.
- Perfect for all travellers, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned skier.
- Easy booking options: learn more on our Accommodation and Winter Season pages.
Want to know more about us? Visit our About Us page to see what makes Arlberg Mt Buller unique.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to get to Mt Buller before you leave home ensures your trip runs smoothly. Whether you drive, take public transport, or book a shuttle, planning ahead will save you time and stress. Parking is simple once you understand the difference between day and overnight options, and the free village shuttles make getting around easy.
For the most seamless experience, stay where the action is. Arlberg House offers ski-in, ski-out access, on-site gear hire, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere; making it the perfect base for your snow holiday.
Ready to book your stay? Contact us today and start planning your Mt Buller adventure.
Travel & Parking FAQs
1. How far is Mt Buller from Melbourne?
Mt Buller is around 230 km from Melbourne, about a three-hour drive depending on traffic and road conditions.
2. Is parking free at Mt Buller?
No. Resort entry and parking fees apply. These can be pre-purchased online to save time on arrival.
3. Are there shuttle buses from the car parks to the village?
Yes. Free shuttle buses run frequently from both day and overnight car parks to the village and accommodation areas. Oversnow taxis are also available for direct transport.
4. Can I get to Mt Buller without a car?
Absolutely. You can take public transport to Mansfield, then connect to a snow coach or Mt Buller shuttle bus. Direct transfers also run from Melbourne and Tullamarine Airport.
5. Where is the best place to stay for easy access to Mt Buller slopes?
For direct access to the slopes, ski-in, ski-out Accommodation at Arlberg Mt Buller is the top choice. It saves you time and makes every ski day easier.
