Mount Buffalo Chalet set to reopen after more than two decades

Mount Buffalo Chalet, a heritage-listed building affectionately known as the "grand old dame," is set to reopen after a 20-year closure. The restoration project, spearheaded by Belgravia Outdoor Education (BOE) and Parks Victoria, aims to rekindle the chalet's former glory as a premier destination. The reopening will begin with the opening of a cafe, followed by the addition of 10 apartments and the renovation of the south wing to accommodate 200 beds for school camps.

Once fully restored, the chalet will welcome 5,000 students annually, offering them a unique opportunity to explore the Alpine National Park and engage in various outdoor activities like caving, abseiling, kayaking, and mountain biking. The chalet, constructed primarily of timber due to cost constraints, boasts 200 rooms, 108 of which are bedrooms, each with a distinct character.

Its history is intertwined with significant events, such as Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's royal train visit in 1954. Despite facing threats from bushfires, the chalet has remained a cherished landmark, maintaining its unique charm and heritage value.