Alpine Retreat Mt Buller

For our first snow trip, my family and I were thrilled with the stay. We enjoyed the places to visit, including the children's area, pool and restaurant, and loved being close to the town and its beautiful walking spots. It's clean and family friendly, and everyone was kind, especially the lady at reception, who was always lovely. Ski gear can be rented downstairs, and the guy working there was great. My English isn't very good, but I still felt welcome. I'd happily stay here again if I come back, and recommend it.

We ate at the restaurant on a lively Saturday night, with the bar adding to the atmosphere. The food was great, service quick, and prices very affordable. They take food orders until 9pm, later than other restaurants. One thing to know: the free shuttle no longer stops outside, so there's a short walk from the central village bus stop.

At the restaurant we were told to sit down as soon as we arrived, but then nobody came to help us, and the staff seemed unfriendly. The rooms felt outdated and had several lights that didn't work. The whole place seemed poorly maintained, and the stay made our trip disappointing. I'd rather pay more for somewhere higher-end than come back here. Would give zero stars if I could.

The noise from the bar below was the big problem for us. Conversations carried through the thin walls until 1am, and staff could only apologise and point guests to the noise warnings in other reviews. Light sleepers and families with young children should take that into account. Apart from that, Alpine Retreat is friendly and convenient. The room fit five of us comfortably, with a spare bed, and the staff were accommodating. It's a short walk to the village square, with the Lydia chairlift right outside for easy slope access. Breakfast is included and continental, with a coffee machine that worked only some mornings. There's a dry room for clothes, plus ski and snowboard storage, and rentals at the hotel.