Home to Australia’s highest point, Mount Kosciuszko, the Snowy Mountains tick a lot of boxes for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. In summer, head off on a bushwalk or mountain bike ride. In winter, hit the slopes at Thredbo, Perisher or Charlotte’s Pass. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to dine at, no matter the season. As well as boutique wineries, breweries and distilleries.
Attractions
Winter is peak tourist season in the Snowy Mountains, with skiers and snowboarders filling the resorts, as well as towns like Jindabyne and Cooma. There are ski schools for beginners, and kids. And even night skiing for a different perspective on a downhill run.
Don’t just read about Mount Kosciuszko being Australia’s highest mountain, experience it! A chairlift in Thredbo goes part of the way, followed by a 13km return walk to the summit. Or take the long road, and walk or ride from Charlotte’s Pass.
Other highlights for nature lovers include pygmy possum spotting at Wallace Creek lookout and the Bombala Platypus Reserve. The Yarrangobilly Caves are home to an impressive display of stalagmites and stalactites.
Stay
The Snowy Mountains ski resorts offer accommodation in hotels, chalets and apartments. Or stay in a nearby town and travel in for a day on the slopes. Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa offers the best of both worlds. It’s close to Thredbo, but far enough away from the slopes to be able to take a breath and relax.
Or sleep under the stars at one of the Snowy Mountain’s campgrounds. Book a spot in one of the many facilities in the National Park. There are private operators too, with a range of campsites and cabins for hire.
Dine
Wildbrumby is keeping the apres ski schnapps tradition alive, with its distillery located on the Alpine Way. Pick up a bottle of schnapps, gin or vodka, stop by the Stillhouse Kitchen for a meal or check out the sculpture garden.
Fancy a late breakfast of caviar and eggs before a solid day on the slopes? Kareela Hutte is a ski in, ski out restaurant located on the Supertrail at Thredbo. Or make a booking at Candlelight Lodge for dinner. Its speciality is fondue.
Tumbarumba is a cool climate wine region, known for its pinot noir and chardonnay. It’s a picturesque location, popular also for trout fishing and as a base to explore the national park.
Batlow is known for its apple orchards. Pick up some local produce from a farm gate or a tipple from the Batlow Cider Co.
