Jindabyne

Jindabyne is the gateway to the Snowy Mountains, a laid-back lakeside town that seamlessly blends alpine adventure with relaxed waterside living. The town was relocated in the 1960s when the Snowy River was dammed to create Lake Jindabyne, and today its sparkling waters are the centrepiece of the area. In winter, Jindabyne buzzes with skiers and snowboarders heading to nearby Thredbo and Perisher; in summer, it transforms into a haven for fishing, sailing, and bushwalking. The town itself has a friendly, year-round appeal, with a clutch of excellent cafés, pubs, and outdoor gear shops that cater to adventurers.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Jindabyne: The vast, man-made lake is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and trout fishing. The Lakeside Drive offers stunning views and picnic spots.
• Kosciuszko National Park: Just a short drive away, this park is home to Australia's highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. In summer, hike to the summit; in winter, hit the slopes at Thredbo or Perisher.
• Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre: Learn about the engineering marvel of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, which diverted rivers to generate hydroelectricity and irrigation.
• Jindabyne Brewing: A craft brewery with a sunny beer garden, offering locally brewed ales and hearty pub food.
• Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery: Taste schnapps made from local apples, with a backdrop of the Snowy Mountains.
• Thredbo River Trail: A scenic walking and cycling path along the Thredbo River, great for spotting platypus at dawn or dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend two to three days in Jindabyne, using it as a base to explore the Snowy Mountains. In winter, you'll want at least three days to ski or snowboard at Thredbo and Perisher. In summer, two days allow time to hike Kosciuszko, enjoy water sports on the lake, and sample the local food scene. If you're passing through on a road trip, an overnight stay is enough to get a taste of the lake and a good meal.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Thredbo & Perisher – Australia's premier alpine resorts, 30–45 minutes north, offering world-class skiing in winter and hiking and mountain biking in summer.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Drive to Charlotte Pass or take the chairlift at Thredbo for access to the summit walk; also explore the Snowy River and glacial lakes.
• Cooma – A historic town 45 minutes north, with the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre and a charming main street.
• Canberra – The national capital, 2.5 hours north, is an easy day trip for museums, galleries, and Parliament House.
• Snowy Valleys Scenic Drive – A picturesque route through the high country, linking Jindabyne to towns like Adaminaby and Kiandra.

Please check official sources for current details.