Jindabyne

Jindabyne, the gateway to the Snowy Mountains, is a vibrant lakeside town that has reinvented itself from a sleepy mountain village into a year-round adventure hub. Surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Jindabyne and the rugged peaks of Kosciuszko National Park, this is where travellers come to ski in winter, mountain bike in summer, and soak up the crisp alpine air in every season.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Jindabyne – The sparkling lake is the centrepiece of the town. Hire a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or take a scenic cruise to appreciate the mountain backdrop. In summer, the lake is perfect for swimming and fishing.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Just a short drive away, you can hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, via the popular Thredbo to Kosciuszko walk. In winter, the park transforms into a skier’s paradise with resorts like Thredbo and Perisher.
• Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre – Dive into the engineering marvel of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, a massive hydroelectric project that shaped the region. Interactive exhibits and a lookout make it a fascinating stop.
• Jindabyne Brewing – After a day on the slopes or trails, this craft brewery offers a relaxed atmosphere with live music and a rotating selection of beers. Try the Snowy Stout or the Alpine Ale.
• Banjo Paterson Inn – A historic pub named after the famous poet, serving hearty pub meals with lake views. It’s a local institution for a post-adventure meal.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2 to 3 days in Jindabyne, which gives you time to explore the lake and do one major hike or ski day. If you’re planning to ski at Thredbo or Perisher, consider a week-long stay to make the most of the slopes. In summer, a long weekend is enough to hike, bike, and enjoy the lake, but you could easily extend your stay to explore more of the national park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Thredbo – A 30-minute drive away, this alpine village offers year-round activities from skiing and snowboarding to mountain biking and the scenic Kosciuszko chairlift ride.
• Perisher Valley – Australia’s largest ski resort, just 40 minutes from Jindabyne, with terrain for all levels and a vibrant après-ski scene.
• Berridale – A charming historic town 20 minutes north, known for its trout fishing and the famous Berridale Inn.
• Cooma – The snowy region’s main service town, 45 minutes away, with a rich history tied to the Snowy Mountains Scheme and a good selection of cafes and shops.
• Kosciuszko National Park (wilderness areas) – Beyond the ski resorts, explore less-trodden trails like the Main Range Walk or the Victorian Alps on the Australian Alps Walking Track.

Please check official sources for current details.