Getaway to Snowy Mountains in 2024

Escape to the breathtaking Snowy Mountains for an unforgettable adventure! Discover a world of natural beauty and exhilarating activities in this picturesque destination. Whether you’re seeking thrilling snow sports in the winter or scenic hikes in the warmer months, the Snowy Mountains offer endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. From cozy alpine villages to stunning national parks, every moment spent in the Snowy Mountains promises unforgettable memories.

Snow brings me joy without fail. Whenever I feel down, my mind drifts to thoughts of snowfall. It’s become a cherished part of my annual routine here in Australia. During my first year in Melbourne, I made it a point to visit Mount Buller in Victoria. Since relocating to Sydney several years ago, I’ve found solace in the snowy landscapes of Mount Perisher, nestled in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales (NSW).

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About Snowy Mountains

The Snowy Mountains reign as Australia’s loftiest mountain range, boasting the country’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, soaring to an impressive 2,228 meters. Forming part of the Australian Alps and the Great Dividing Range, this majestic expanse offers a wealth of natural wonders.

Come winter, Sydney becomes a hub of activity with many experiences awaiting. For a glimpse into the winter delights of Sydney, delve into our guide on Things to Do in Sydney Winters.

Within the Snowy Mountains lie four charming villages:

1. Perisher Valley
2. Smiggin Holes
3. Guthega
4. Blue Cow

These quaint settlements transform the Snowy Mountains into a haven for snow enthusiasts during winter, typically from June to August. However, brace yourself for chilly temperatures plummeting below -5 degrees Celsius. Appropriate attire is essential to withstand such conditions.

En route to the Snowy Mountains, make a pit stop at Jindabyne, where ski shops abound, offering rental equipment to ensure you’re well-equipped for your alpine adventure.

About Jindabyne

Nestled near the Snowy Mountains, Jindabyne is a quaint village boasting stunning views overlooking Lake Jindabyne. Positioned on the periphery of the Snowy Mountains, this village is a popular and budget-friendly accommodation hub for visitors to Thredbo and Perisher villages. Staying in Jindabyne is more economical than staying in Thredbo, particularly during the bustling ski season.

Interestingly, despite its proximity to the Snowy Mountains, Jindabyne typically experiences minimal snowfall.

How to Get to Jindabyne?

By Road

The distance separating Jindabyne from Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD) spans approximately 460 kilometres. A journey by car typically takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes. It’s important to note that toll roads are part of the route.

While en route to the Snowy Mountains, you’ll encounter an array of captivating roadside attractions, including the whimsical “big things.” Check out our guide on 11 Big Things to See in NSW for a glimpse into these delightful spectacles.

By Public Transport

For travellers seeking the most convenient route from Sydney to Jindabyne, opting for either a train or a bus to Canberra, followed by a bus to Jindabyne, proves optimal. These buses operate via Canberra, resulting in a journey duration of approximately 6 to 7 hours.

By Private Buses

Greyhound buses departing from Sydney to Jindabyne also follow the route via Canberra, extending the journey to more than 7 hours.

Check for the availability of buses on the 12Go website

Places to Stay at Jindabyne

As mentioned, opting for accommodation in Jindabyne over Thredbo ski resort is typically more budget-friendly. However, during the ski season, prices in Jindabyne may rise due to the high demand for lodging.

Here are a couple of recommendations:

• Alpine Drovers Rest – Situated approximately 11 kilometres from the city centre, Alpine Drovers Rest offers luxurious 5-star accommodations with cozy and comfortable rooms.
• Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains – Nestled along the shores of Lake Jindabyne, Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains is conveniently located just 300 to 350 meters from the city centre. The property features apartments boasting splendid views of the lake and mountains.

About Thredbo

Nestled within the picturesque Snowy Mountains, Thredbo is an alpine village and a premier ski resort. Enveloped by the valley of Thredbo River, this charming village resides within the bounds of Kosciuszko National Park.

Thredbo is renowned for its allure during the ski season and boasts the region’s longest ski tracks. Additionally, the village offers many amenities, including shops, restaurants, and excellent accommodation choices, ensuring a memorable mountain retreat for visitors of all kinds.

How to Get to Thredbo?

By Road

Thredbo lies a mere 36 kilometres away from Jindabyne. For visitors journeying to the Snowy Mountains, it’s important to note that during the ski season (from June to October), 2-wheel drive vehicles (cars) must carry chains as a safety precaution.

Additionally, all vehicles must obtain a Kosciuszko National Park pass, which can be conveniently purchased at the park entrance.

By Public Transport

Accessing Thredbo via public transportation can pose some challenges. The optimal route involves taking a bus or a train from Sydney to Canberra, followed by a bus journey to Thredbo.

Check for prices on the 12Go website

By Private Buses

Greyhound buses provide a convenient transportation option between Thredbo and Sydney, with a route via Canberra. These buses offer exceptional comfort, making the journey of a little over 7 hours quite pleasant.

Places to Stay in Thredbo

Thredbo is a ski resort with different types of accommodation options. A few of the accommodation options are:

• Thredbo Alpine Hotel – One of the best hotels to stay in Thredbo is the Thredbo Alpine Hotel. It is just a few minutes from the chair lift and has an in-house restaurant and bar.
• Boali Lodge – Located just 150 metres from the city centre and 2 minutes from the chair lift, Boali Lodge is a very convenient and comfortable stay in Thredbo.

About Perisher

Perisher is a prominent alpine ski resort nestled within the Perisher Valley, renowned for its abundant chair lifts and ski tracks. Named in honour of Captain John Perisher, the Perisher Valley surpasses Thredbo in popularity and visitation.

Boasting numerous cafes, restaurants, a supermarket, and various lodging choices, Perisher offers a comprehensive experience for visitors. Notably, Perisher ski resort holds the distinction of being the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere.

However, it’s worth noting that while Perisher offers an array of amenities, Thredbo boasts a more comprehensive selection of accommodation options.

How to Get to Perisher?

By Road

The journey from Jindabyne to the Perisher Valley spans approximately 33 kilometres, with a quick road trip of around 30 minutes. During the ski season, you must equip your vehicle with chains, particularly for two-wheel drives, ensuring a safe and secure travel experience.

By Public Transport

Travelling from Jindabyne to Perisher is convenient with Snowy Mountains Shuttle‘s shuttle services. Priced at approximately AUD 25 per person, these shuttles offer a cost-effective, hassle-free transportation option to reach Perisher from Jindabyne.

Places to Stay in Perisher

Perisher Village offers a variety of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are a few choices:

• Perisher Manor Hotel: Situated near the Perisher Valley chair lifts and just 150 meters from the town centre, Perisher Manor Hotel features comfortable rooms ideal for a cozy stay.
• Boonoona Ski Lodge: Another excellent option is Boonoona Ski Lodge, which is conveniently located near the town centre. This lodge is perfect for large families or budget-conscious travellers seeking comfortable accommodation.
• The River Inn: Ideal for larger families, The River Inn offers villas with double rooms. Its proximity to village restaurants ensures convenient access to dining options during your stay.

About Mount Perisher

With an altitude of 2054 metres, Mount Perisher is located in the Snowy Mountains, and Perisher Valley is a valley below Mount Perisher.

Free Shuttles between Thredbo and Perisher

There are free shuttles within the villages of Thredbo and Perisher. You can take your skiing/ snowboarding gear and travel between the places inside the villages easily.

• But there is no easy way to travel between the two villages, Thredbo and Perisher. And the only and best option is to drive between them.

Things To Do at Snowy Mountains During Winters

Skiing and Snowboarding

Perisher holds an edge for skiing enthusiasts with its extensive array of ski runs and expansive skiable terrain. However, Thredbo is preferred for beginners keen on learning skiing and snowboarding.

A chair lift pass, purchased separately, is essential for skiing and snowboarding to access the slopes. A lift pass costs AUD 162 for a single day. It’s advisable to secure your passes well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly during peak periods.

Remember that ski resorts experience high activity levels during the ski season, so be prepared for bustling crowds.

Despite participating in multiple skiing lessons through day and weekend travel packages, I still consider myself a beginner. Balancing proved to be quite challenging for me. For those in a similar position, I recommend staying at the resorts and enrolling in multiple days of lessons to enhance your skills and confidence on the slopes.

Explore Jindabyne

Jindabyne offers many activities for visitors to enjoy. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Lake Jindabyne, this picturesque town beckons exploration. In addition to soaking in the beauty of the lake, here are a few attractions to explore:

1. Jindabyne Dam: A notable landmark worth visiting, offering scenic views and insights into the region’s hydroelectric infrastructure.
2. Town Centre: Discover the heart of Jindabyne with its charming shops, cafes, and eateries, perfect for strolls and local delights.
3. Jindabyne Brewing: Delight in a taste of local craft beer at Jindabyne Brewing, where you can sample a variety of brews and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.

Things To Do in Snowy Mountains During Summer

• Thredbo – While the ski resorts may be closed during the summer season, there are still plenty of things to do in Thredbo during summer. A highlight is embarking on a hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, providing breathtaking views and a memorable outdoor adventure.
• Jindabyne – Lake Jindabyne emerges as a stunning destination to explore during summer, offering picturesque landscapes and tranquil surroundings.
• Moreover, the Kosciuszko National Park boasts numerous small huts of cultural and heritage significance. A popular summer activity involves hiking between these huts, providing insight into the region’s history and natural beauty.

One-Day Trips (Bus Tours) from Sydney

I’ve participated in numerous one-day bus tours to the Snowy Mountains from Sydney, often booking through Viator. These tours typically depart for Perisher from Haymarket in Sydney.

The itinerary for these one-day tours from Sydney is pretty standard across all tour agencies:

1. The trip commences on a Friday night at approximately 11:45 PM.
2. Along the journey, there is a stopover for hiring skiing gear.
3. Arrive at Perisher in the morning.
4. Enjoy a full day of activities at Perisher.
5. Depart Perisher around 3 PM.
6. Return to Sydney around midnight or slightly later.

Weekend Packages with Skiing Lessons

Staying in the snow is a delightful experience, with many activities awaiting at Snowy Mountains. I’ve enjoyed embarking on weekend packages a few times myself. I opted for Oz Snow Adventures for my first trip, while my second adventure was with Ski Kaos. Each excursion offered its unique charm and memorable moments amidst the snowy landscapes.

Review of Oz Snow Adventures

I embarked on an adventure with Oz Snow Adventures during my first trip. The agency provided excellent service, offering a spacious bus and meticulously organized arrangements throughout the journey. The trip, priced at AUD 500 per person, included a two-night stay in Jindabyne. The tour agency seamlessly arranged transportation between Jindabyne and Perisher on both days, enhancing the overall convenience and enjoyment of the experience.

Review of Ski Kaos

Unfortunately, my experience with Ski Kaos, a Sydney-based tour agency, did not meet expectations. The bus provided for transportation from Central train station was inadequate for the number of passengers and the amount collected per person. Squeezed into the cramped space, we struggled to find seating amidst our backpacks, ski boots, jackets, and pants piled on our laps.

Upon arrival at the resort, we discovered that our skiing equipment had gone missing, forcing us to retrieve it the following day at a designated location. Furthermore, on Sunday morning, we were stranded at our resort with no transportation as promised.

The driver’s demeanour added to the frustration, displaying rudeness and a lack of assistance loading luggage into the trailer. His inability to provide clear instructions heightened our discomfort. His failure to equip the vehicle with snow chains also caused a 15-minute traffic delay.

Throughout the booking process, minimal guidance was provided, with discrepancies between the messages received and the actual itinerary confusing.

Despite staying at the River Inn in Thredbo and receiving skiing lessons over the two-day trip, the overall cost amounted to AUD 850 per person, including additional fees for gear hire.

Is Snowy Mountains Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Absolutely! I’ve explored the Snowy Mountains numerous times, with most of my trips being solo adventures. Without a doubt, I’ve never encountered any issues during my visits. I wholeheartedly recommend the Snowy Mountains as an ideal destination for solo travellers.

Closing Notes

Exploring the Snowy Mountains during the winter months has always been a joyous experience. Witnessing the mountains blanketed in snow is genuinely breathtaking. There’s something undeniably special about being amidst the snow and indulging in playful moments. It’s a feeling of pure happiness that I cherish every time.

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