Snowy Mountains - Discovering Australia

Travelling to Snowy Mountains

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Snowy Mountains, a pretty good destination in Australia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Snowy Mountains and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Snowy Mountains, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Australia, here's everything to know about Snowy Mountains for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Snowy Mountains

The Snowy Mountains are a mountain range located in southeastern Australia, in the states of New South Wales and Victoria. The region is known for its beautiful alpine scenery, wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing, hiking, camping, and fishing. The area is also famous for being the site of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, a massive engineering project that involved the construction of dams, hydroelectric power stations, and tunnels to provide water and electricity to Australia's growing population. To visit the Snowy Mountains, you can travel by car, bus, or train from Sydney or Canberra. The best time to go is during the winter months from June to August, when the ski season is in full swing.

What to visit in Snowy Mountains

1. Mount Kosciuszko: Mount Kosciuszko, standing tall at 2,228 meters, is the highest peak in mainland Australia. It is a popular destination for hikers and skiers, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
2. Thredbo Alpine Village: Thredbo is a popular ski resort located in Snowy Mountains, offering various winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. In summer, visitors can enjoy scenic walks, mountain biking, and hiking.
3. Perisher Ski Resort: The Perisher Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, offering skiing and snowboarding across four interconnected villages - Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega.
4. The Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre: This state-of-the-art center showcases the history and technology behind the Snowy Hydro Scheme, a massive engineering project that produces hydroelectricity, irrigation water, and water for the Snowy Mountains Scheme.
5. Yarrangobilly Caves: These stunning limestone caves feature a variety of delicate and intricate formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. Visitors can explore the caves on guided tours, which also take in the thermal pool and picnic area in the surrounding area.
6. Lake Jindabyne: Lake Jindabyne is a popular recreational area and a must-visit for lovers of water activities like fishing, kayaking, and sailing. During the winter months, the lake transforms into a snowfield, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Cascades Walk: Cascades Walk is a scenic walk of approximately 1.4 kilometers that winds through the scenic Thredbo Valley. Visitors will see the picturesque Thredbo River, plus several waterfalls and rock pools along the way.
8. Snowy Mountains Horse Riding: Horse riding is another popular activity in Snowy Mountains, offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscape at a leisurely pace. Many local operators offer horseback riding treks through the national parks and mountains of the region.

When to go on holiday to Snowy Mountains

The best time to go on holiday to the Snowy Mountains in Australia is during the winter months from June to October. This is when the area is covered in snow and ski resorts are open for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. However, it's important to note that this is also the peak season, so prices for accommodation and activities may be higher, and there may be larger crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of early June or late September and October, when snow can still be found but crowds are thinner. If you're interested in summer activities like hiking and mountain biking, the best time to visit is from late November to early April.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Snowy Mountains

There are a few options for getting to Snowy Mountains in Australia, depending on where you are currently located. Here are some travel methods: 1. Fly: The closest airports are Cooma and Canberra. Both airports provide shuttle services and car rentals.
2. Drive: Snowy Mountains is about a 5-hour drive from Sydney and about a 2-hour drive from Canberra.
3. Bus: There are several bus services that operate from Sydney, Canberra, and other major cities to Snowy Mountains. The buses run daily and are relatively affordable.
4. Train: Catch a train to either Cooma or Canberra and then continue your journey by shuttle or rental car.
Whichever method you choose, the journey to Snowy Mountains is beautiful and scenic. It is advised to check road conditions during winter as snow and ice can cause dangerous driving conditions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Snowy Mountains, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Snowy Mountains

1. Mountain Pepper - A spice that grows in the Snowy Mountains region, adding a unique peppery and spicy flavor to dishes.
2. Trout - Freshly caught trout is a specialty in the Snowy Mountains. It is often grilled, baked, or smoked and served with lemon or butter.
3. Alpine cheese - A type of cheese made from cow's milk, Alpine cheese is aged and has a nutty and slightly sweet taste. It makes an excellent addition to cheese platters or fondue.
4. Snowy Mountain lamb - Sheep that is raised on the alpine pastures of the Snowy Mountains have a distinct flavor. Meat from these sheep has a rich and tender taste and is perfect to be slow-cooked in stews or curries.
5. Brumby bread - A type of sourdough bread that is made with wild yeast found in the mountain region. The bread has a dense texture and a sour taste that pairs well with creamy butter or soft cheese.
6. Mountain berries - The cold climate of the Snowy Mountains is ideal to grow a variety of berries, including raspberries, blueberries, and mulberries. These berries are famous for their sweet and tangy flavor and are often used in jams or desserts.
7. Snow Gum Honey - Honey produced by bees that feed on the nectar from the Snow Gum tree has a distinct flavor. It is smooth and sweet with earthy tones and pairs exceptionally well with cheese or drizzled over toast. 8. Alpine Trout Pate - A pate made from smoked trout paired with a rich combination of cheese, butter, and cream. It is perfect for spreading over crackers or bread.
You can find general info about typical foods in Australia here.

Is Snowy Mountains an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Snowy Mountains in Australia can be an expensive destination for tourists, especially during peak seasons like winter. The costs associated with activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, can be significant. Additionally, accommodation and dining options in the area can be higher than in other parts of the country due to the popularity of the region. However, it is still possible to find budget-friendly options, such as staying in nearby towns outside of the Snowy Mountains area or visiting during the off-season.

Where to find accomodation in Snowy Mountains

The Snowy Mountains are a popular tourist destination in Australia known for their ski resorts, national parks, and stunning natural landscapes. Generally, to visit the Snowy Mountains, it is best to look for accommodation in the towns of Jindabyne, Thredbo, or Perisher Valley. These areas offer a range of accommodation options such as hotels, lodges, apartments, and resorts, depending on your budget and preference. Jindabyne is a popular hub for visitors with a wide range of amenities, while Thredbo is known for its ski slopes and bustling atmosphere. Perisher Valley is also popular with skiers and snowboarders, offering easy access to the ski fields.
You can check hotel prices at Snowy Mountains here:
Booking.com

Is Snowy Mountains a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Snowy Mountains is generally a very safe place for tourists. The crime rate in the area is low, and violent crime is very rare. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. Make sure to lock your doors and windows when you leave your accommodation, and don't leave your valuables unattended. It's also a good idea to follow any safety warnings or advice from local authorities, particularly when participating in activities such as skiing or hiking. Overall, Snowy Mountains is a wonderful destination for tourists and a very safe place to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Australia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Snowy Mountains.

What type of travelers will enjoy Snowy Mountains the most?

Snowy Mountains in Australia can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers, but it is particularly popular among couples, families, and adventure seekers. The destination offers a range of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter sports, making it a perfect spot for young people looking for some excitement.
For families, Snowy Mountain is ideal as it is a safe destination and offers laid-back activities such as sightseeing, tobogganing, and exploring the national parks. Couples who are looking for a romantic getaway can enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and cozy up in front of a fireplace in a ski resort, making this a perfect destination for a winter honeymoon or romantic weekend away.

How to get around Snowy Mountains

To move around Snowy Mountains in Australia, you can use a variety of transportation options such as driving, taking a taxi, using the local bus service, or hiring a bicycle. You can also use the ski lifts available in winter to access the slopes. It's always a good idea to check road conditions and weather forecasts before starting your journey.

What to see around Snowy Mountains

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Snowy Mountains: 1. Canberra (approx. 2.5 hours drive) - with its many museums, galleries, and attractions such as the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House, Canberra makes for a great day trip.
2. Tumut (approx. 45 minutes drive) - known for its beautiful parks, gardens, and historic buildings, Tumut is a great place to explore and learn about Australian history.
3. Batlow (approx. 1 hour drive) - known for its apple orchards and cider production, Batlow is a great place to relax and enjoy some delicious food and drinks.
4. Albury-Wodonga (approx. 2 hours drive) - located on the border of New South Wales and Victoria, Albury-Wodonga offers a range of activities such as shopping, exploring the local art scene, and enjoying the Murray River.
5. Yarrangobilly Caves (approx. 1.5 hours drive) - located within the Kosciuszko National Park, the Yarrangobilly Caves offer a unique natural experience with amazing limestone formations and thermal pools. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need more suggestions.
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