Prepare to be captivated by the Snowy Mountains, a true gem nestled in Australia's heartland! This breathtaking region, known as 'the Snowies', is a place of natural wonders and vibrant culture, offering an experience that transforms with the seasons.
The Snowies are situated on the traditional lands of the Ngarigo people, accessible via the Monaro Highway, a mere six hours from Sydney and three from Canberra. I, a local resident of Jindabyne, often referred to as 'Jindy', have called this place home for a decade, and I can confidently say it's Australia's most beautiful region, boasting mountains, lakes, rivers, and unique alpine vegetation.
Mount Kosciuszko, accessible via the Kosciuszko Express chairlift from Thredbo, stands as Australia's highest point. The region is home to two main ski resorts, Perisher and Thredbo, both a half-hour drive from Jindabyne. While many still perceive the Snowies as a winter destination, its true magic unfolds in summer, transforming into an adventure playground with world-class mountain biking, horse riding, hiking, lake sports, and whitewater rafting. The weather is idyllic, tourists are fewer, and the atmosphere is family-friendly and country-like.
Food Scene:
For a scenic picnic, The Little Grocer at Shut the Gate wines in Berridale offers an array of excellent regional produce, including wine, cheese, cured meats, and bread. You can picnic on the winery grounds, and they host live music at the cellar door on the first Friday of each month.
A wood-fired pizza war is brewing, with Out of Bounds in Berridale being the long-time local favorite. However, the recent opening of Stacks Pizza in Jindy has caused a stir in the community. Their pepperoni pizza is a personal favorite.
The Japanese influence is strong, with many seasonal ski workers traveling from Japan for the Australian winter. Takayama Restaurant Bar, an izakaya-style establishment, serves the best food in Jindabyne, offering a fun group dining experience or a solo ramen topped with juicy pork.
Perrotta's Italian restaurant at Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa, opened in 2024, serves delicious pasta, with the rigatoni with vodka sauce being a standout. They often source seafood from the far south coast of New South Wales, known for Australia's best oysters.
For a community feel, head to ESS Board Store for Allpress coffee, or Birchwood Jindabyne for specialty coffees and an all-day menu with Indian and Japanese-inspired lunches. Tea lovers should visit The Market Jindabyne to create their own tea blend and enjoy a private nook for work or a great picnic spread.
Nature's Wonders:
My top recommendation, often missed by visitors, is a 10-minute canoe ride across Lake Jindabyne to Lion Island nature reserve. It's a secluded beach with mountain views, and the snow-melt water provides a refreshing dip on a hot day. Canoes can be hired from Sacred Ride, and the lake is usually calm unless it's windy.
Mountain biking is the summer sport of choice, with the Thredbo Valley track in Kosciuszko National Park offering a bonanza for bikers of all levels. Bikes can be hired from Harro's.
Floating down Thredbo River on a lilo is a must-do. Start at Gaden trout hatchery and end at the Thredbo River picnic area, passing by big oak trees and lush springtime scenery with fresh snowmelt.
For a unique wildlife experience, head to Bullocks track in the national park to spot platypuses in the pools around the Thredbo River. Towards summer, they emerge from their burrows in the late afternoon to play in the water, but remember to be quiet as they are shy creatures.
The Main Range walk in Kosciusko National Park takes you to five lakes, including the stunning Lake Albina. The Blue Lake, Australia's largest glacial lake, is a beautiful sight, reminiscent of the Scottish highlands, with many hikes branching off from there.
Jindabyne's Nightlife:
The young and trendy flock to Holly's for its great atmosphere and dancing vibes, with regular DJ sets in the beer garden and a food truck. For a more intimate setting, Bar Lula serves European-style small plates and hosts acoustic live music, often the venue of choice for first dates.
The Banjo Paterson Inn, known as 'the Banj', caters to all demographics. It offers accommodation upstairs and a brewery downstairs, a popular spot for cyclists and hikers to unwind with a beer after their outdoor adventures. The restaurant serves family-friendly meals like burgers, pizza, and ice cream, and it's also the go-to late-night hangout.
Inspiration for Adventure:
In summer, the Snowies become Australia's Queenstown, with a culture centered around outdoor activities. Cochran Horse Treks offer customized treks of three to seven days, suited to guests' horseback abilities. Led by Peter Cochran, a fifth-generation mountain horseman, these treks feature packhorses, billy tea, campfires, and camp oven-cooked dinners.
Whitewater rafting on the lower Snowy River is an exhilarating experience, with the possibility of spotting wild brumbies running through the landscape. Venture Outdoors Co. offers excellent guided rafting trips.
Thredbo Resort hosts new moon stargazing hikes, starting at dusk and passing rocky outcrops, running rivers, and the scenic Lake Cootapatamba. Guides set up a hot chocolate experience at Mount Kosciuszko, pointing out constellations and current astronomical events.
Accommodation:
For a dog-friendly option, Big Yard Farm, a 25-minute drive from Jindabyne, sleeps up to six people and offers private trout fishing along the Mowamba River, home to wombats, kangaroos, and platypuses. It has open fireplaces and a well-equipped kitchen.
Alternatively, consider a private cabin in the bush, away from the ski resorts. Big Yard Escapes offers tiny houses near Thredbo and Perisher with stunning alpine views. Crafters cabins are nestled in the bushland beneath Crackenback Peak, fully off-grid with rainwater, solar power, and thermal mass walls for heating. Close to Jindabyne, Common Kosci is a contemporary take on the Aussie bush shack, featuring hammocks, comfy sofas, floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor hot tubs, and underfloor heating.
For car campers, Thredbo Diggings in Kosciuszko National Park is ideal. Hikers should consider Wilkinson's Creek, a beautiful camping spot. Be sure to read the camping restrictions in advance and always inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
The Snowy Mountains is a destination that truly comes alive in summer, offering an adventure-filled experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
