The Snowy Mountains region in South East NSW is a landscape unlike any other. Its rolling hills and great peaks, relics of a 100-million-year-old geological rift, backdrop a terrain of sublime natural beauty and endless adventure.
Australia’s high country has long been a favourite winter tourism destination thanks to its pristine snow fields, but this is a place that inspires discovery all year round. Warmer seasons see the valleys awash with coloured foliage, an abundance of hiking trails and treks reveal hidden caverns and thermal pools, and thrill seekers can scale new heights on foot or by mountain bike.
We’ve put together this article to help you plan your Snowy Mountains adventure. Happy reading!
JINDABYNE
Set on the picturesque Lake Jindabyne, this bustling mountain town is the perfect base for those wanting to experience Kosciuszko National Park, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass and the wider Snowy Mountains Region. It is also where the Snowy Classic Event Village and Start/Finish Lines will be held. The town of Jindabyne itself is a hive of activity offering water sports, walking trails, mountain bike trails, shopping, cafes, nightlife and plenty more.
To Do
Hiking
Jindabyne provides a gateway to the iconic Kosciuszko National Park, with many hikes located just a short drive from the township. Visitors are encouraged to check in with the Snowy Region Visitor Centre to find trail maps and more information regarding trail status. The trails are also outlined on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
Mountain Biking
Jindabyne is home to a variety of trails that will suit mountain bike riders of all ability levels. The Tyrolean trail network is first class, offering plenty of thrills for intermediate to advanced riders. There are lots of options for beginner to intermediate riders as well, Mill Creek trail takes riders on a gentle and picturesque journey along the edge of Lake Jindabyne while Hatchery Trail is another excellent option. At Bungarra Alpine Centre riders will find 20km of professionally built trails along with four skills areas. Read more here.
Sample Surrounding Towns
While in Jindabyne make sure you visit these some of the surrounding towns and villages. Located 20 minutes away is Berridale, where you can visit Shut the Gate Winery to sample local wine and produce. Make sure you check out the Alpine Emporium for bespoke gifts and vintage wares with an alpine touch.
A further 15-minute drive from here is Dalgety, a quaint township on the banks of the Snowy River. Stop in at Buckley’s Crossing Hotel for a drink and a delicious meal or try Iona Gardens Café and Nursery for house made condiments, a meal and all your nursery needs.
To Eat and Drink
The café, bar and restaurant scene in Jindabyne is thriving with growers and makers celebrating delicious local produce and providing a variety of experiences and flavours.
Pinot’s Wine Bar: Stylish and classy, this wine bar offers truffle toasties, grazing boards, boozey lunches and more. Check it out here!
Wildbrumby Distillery: Wildbrumby distils its very own schnapps and gin and serves Austrian inspired meals. Check it out here!
Kosciuszko Brewery: Located at the Banjo Paterson Inn, the brewery also serves a great pub meal to go with your beer. Check it out here!
Crackenback Farm: Offering a unique alpine twist on home style French dining. Check it out here!
Birchwood: Jindabyne’s foodie hub who serve fresh, wholesome and tasty treats for breakfast and lunch. Check it out here!
Parc: A hidden gem serving delicious cafe food adjacent to the Snowy Region Visitor Centre. Check it out here!
Takayama: Bringing a little taste of authentic Japanese mountain food to Jindabyne. Check it out here!
La Famiglia: For the perfect Italian dinner in the heart of town. Check it out here.
Shopping
Jindabyne’s two main shopping areas are home to a variety of shops from fashion boutiques to outdoor specialty stores.
Nuggets Crossing: You’ll find essentials like Woolworths, BWS and a newsagency. Along with Après-She, which stocks luxe fashions from Australian and Italian labels. Read more here.
High Country Outfitters: Have a range of casual and outdoor clothing, footwear and hiking gear along with fly fishing equipment. Read more here.
EXPLORE SURROUNDING JINDABYNE
Thredbo
Thredbo truly is a year-round destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, unique sight-seeing opportunities and plenty more. The resort is home to Australia’s only lift accessed mountain bike trails, which means you can catch a lift to the top of the mountain and take an exhilarating ride to the bottom.
Anyone from first time gravity riders to advanced thrill seekers will find trails to suit their level of riding. Cross country trails are also on offer including the famous Thredbo Valley Track, offering up to 35km (one-way) of fun and flowy riding alongside the Thredbo River. There’s also a pump track, a beginner skills park and both an intermediate and advanced jump line.
Cooma
Often referred to as the Gateway to the Snowy Mountains, Cooma is the largest town in the region and offers a huge variety of activities for people of all ages and interests. The town has a rich history that can be discovered by taking the Lambie Town Walk, which is 5km long and encompasses the Court House Precinct, Church Precinct and the fascinating NSW Corrective Services Museum.
Both Thredbo and Cooma offer great places to eat and drink whilst taking in the scenery of the stunning Snowy Mountains. Both are certainly places to add to your ‘visit’ list.
Learn more about Thredbo and Cooma here!
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