19 Apr 2023
When days get shorter and temperatures drop, Jindabyne comes alive.
Sitting on the edge of the picturesque Snowy Mountains, the small alpine town of Jindabyne turns into a thriving hub of activity during winter.
Known for outdoor activities that run all year round, thanks to its proximity to two of Australia’s most popular snowfields, Jindabyne serves as a central base for snow bunnies every May to September.
Discovery Parks - Jinbayne turns into a winter wonderland every year.
However, even if you’re not a natural-born snow lover, there's plenty to see and do in Jindabyne.
To help you plan a perfect winter getaway, here are 21 reasons to get off the couch this winter and head to ‘Jindy.’
21 reasons a Jindabyne snow getaway is the perfect winter escape
TABLE OF CONTENTS
21 is a lot of reasons, so we’ve broken them up into seven categories below this highly inspirational snowboarding pic.
This could be you! Credit: NSW National Parks
LEARN HOW TO SKI
It’s never too late to learn a new skill, so why not add powder hound to your CV?
Your kids will be better at skiing than you in about 5 minutes. Credit: Destination NSW
The nearby resort mountains of Thredbo and Perisher have ski runs to suit all skill levels, and with the help of their knowledgeable (and patient) instructors, you’ll be cruising down the slopes in no time.
Thredbo has also launched an exciting new program with North Face to encourage women to get outside and connect with nature.
Stand out from the crowd. Credit: Thredbo
The Women’s Backcountry Weekend will take place from September 8-9, 2023, with multiple alpine tours to choose from. Led by all-female guides, this exclusive experience will immerse participants in nature and provide connection with other incredible, like-minded women.
After that, you might feel like a change of pace, so why not try your hand at pottery?
In between alpine highs, get crafty. Credit: Feldmark Pottery
You may not automatically connect pottery with the snow, but the village of Jindabyne has an eclectic art scene, and its newest studio, Feldmark Pottery, offers ceramic taster sessions on weekends, complete with a grazing platter and wine.
You’ll leave with two or three of your own handcrafted pieces and potentially some new friends, making it a truly unique part of your Jindabyne snow getaway.
ENTERTAIN THE KIDS
If a family snow trip has been on your mind for a while, but you’ve never been sure how to keep the kids fully entertained, the Snowy Mountain region has you covered.
It's all downhill from here? Credit: Thredbo
From learning to ski to twisting and turning down a 700m alpine bobsled track, there’s never a dull moment here.
The annual Kids Snow Festival will return to Thredbo in 2023 during the July and September school holidays, offering two weeks of free activities including the ever-popular Kids Only Flare Run. This is where youngsters light up the slopes by heading down the mountain holding flashing LED flares – a spectacular sight to see.
Kids Only Flare Run Credit: Thredbo
If you need another rest day, why not try your hand at disc golf?
Just 2 kilometres down the road from Discovery Park - Jindabyne, the 18-hole Jindabyne Disc Golf Course will test your frisbee skills in a fun activity that's perfect for the whole family.
Water slides in the snow! Credit: Thredbo Leisure Centre
The Thredbo Leisure Centre is another exciting place to visit and features a bouldering wall and a zero-gravity trampoline training facility. Let your kids experience the world of flight in a safe environment, then let them run wild in the swimming pool with waterslides and fun inflatables.
ACCOMMODATION IN JINDABYNE
On the edge of beautiful Lake Jindabyne, Discovery Parks - Jindabyne has centrally-located accommodation options to suit all budgets.
Enjoy the ultimate snow experience without breaking the bank at a traditional ski resort. Plus, give yourself the freedom of exploring the best of the Snowy Mountains without restricting yourself to one resort.
EXPLORE THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS
Remember, just because it’s snowing and you've paid for a lift pass doesn’t mean there's nothing else to do!
Don't worry, you won't get lost. Credit: NSW National Parks
The Yarrangobilly Caves are a must-see for anyone driving to the Snowies and are a scenic two-hour drive from Jindabyne.
These incredible limestone caves are over 440 million years old and after passing through the stone entry gates, you're free to explore the four caves currently open to the public.
Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about what many consider the most beautiful caves in Australia.
Credit: NSW National Parks
The Yarrangobilly Cave site is also home to a pristine thermal pool that is fed by a natural spring.
Hovering around 27 degrees Celsius year-round, this magical spot is perfect for some r&r. The main pool is open to everyone and flows down into a smaller wading pool for the kiddies.
Horseback riding is another popular activity close to Jindabyne, so if living out your Man From Snowy River dreams is on your list, Jindabyne is the spot for you.
Cry me a Snowy River. Credit: Reynella Rides
There are a number of tour operators catering to riders of all levels with different terrain and distance options to choose from.
HOW TO GET TO THREDBO AND PERISHER FROM JINDABYNE
Before you read on, do you know how to get here?
The Alpine Way is a beaut. Credit: National Parks NSW
Jindabyne - Thredbo
To get from Jindabyne to Thredbo, you can take a shuttle bus or drive.
The shuttle buses run from 6 am to 6 pm and take around 30-40 minutes. There are several shuttle companies to choose from and you can book in advance or at the Jindabyne or Thredbo Information Centers.
If you prefer to drive, take the Alpine Way, a scenic route that connects Jindabyne to Thredbo. At around 33 kilometres, the drive takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on conditions. During the winter months, it is mandatory to carry chains in your car, so be prepared for icy roads.
The snow shuttle is always a good time. Credit: Snowy Mountain Shuttles
Jindabyne - Perisher
The distance between Jindabyne and Perisher is similar to Thredbo at about 33 km, and takes about 35-40 minutes by car.
Again, you can follow the Alpine Way from Jindabyne to Perisher, a beautiful scenic drive that passes through the mountains.
Several shuttle bus services run several times a day and offer a convenient and affordable way to get to the mountain. You can also take a taxi or book a ride through most ridesharing apps, but this is obviously more expensive.
SAVE MONEY WHEN YOU STAY OFF-MOUNTAIN
It makes sense that you'll save money by staying off the mountain. The main resorts at Thredbo and Perisher are busy, crowded and cost more, making it a no-brainer to book with Discovery Parks - Jindabyne.
Credit: Destination NSW
While saving money on accommodation is easy, here are 5 more ways not to break the bank on your Jindabyne snow getaway.
1. Organise your snow gear ahead of time
Waiting to hire your snow gear until you get to the slopes is madness and leaves you at the mercy of the retailers who can charge you almost anything they’d like.
Avoid remortgaging the house to hire skis and a jacket by trying places like Gumtree. Alternatively, ask a friend to borrow theirs – odds are they won’t be planning to hit the slopes at the same time.
2. Cook your own meals
Let’s be honest, eateries at the bigger resorts are often packed and charge like wounded bulls.
Discovery Parks - Jindabyne has self-contained accommodation with fully equipped kitchens.
Avoid this by a) staying off the mountain and b) booking somewhere with its own kitchen where you can prepare your own food - the way you like it.
3. Ski the smaller mountains
If you don’t necessarily need to ski Perisher and Thredbo - two of Australia’s most popular (and most expensive) resorts - it’s worth hitting up the less heralded mountains like Selwyn, which is still part of the Snowy Mountains.
4. Book your stay during the off-peak
By avoiding the peak period of July and August, there’s a good chance you’ll save hundreds of dollars. While there’s always a chance the snowfall might not be as good, late and early season snowfall is equally as likely as during the peak.
5. Buy an annual pass
If you plan on going to the snow more than once, it’s well worth investing in an annual ski pass.
Credit: Destination NSW
Not only does this give you unlimited lift access, once you’re on the mountain a bunch of retailers and food and beverage outlets offer season-round discounts!
ENJOY THE ALPINE LIFESTYLE LIKE A LOCAL
What good is a Jindabyne snow getaway without time to sample the alpine village lifestyle like a local?
Jindabyne is the perfect place to do exactly that, with micro-breweries and distilleries continuing to pop up.
Credit: Jindabyne Brewing Co.
Get the full brewery experience with a trip to the Jindabyne Brewing Company, for example, where they brew everything on-site at their fully fledged brew-pub.
Just a couple of boys with their beers. Credit: Kosciuszko Brewing Co.
You can enjoy a “Beer with Altitude” at the neighbouring Banjo Patterson Inn which is also home to the Kosciuszko Brewery. Open since 2009, there's steady selection of house brews (including the famous Kosciuszko Pale Ale) and an ever-changing line up of limited-edition ales.
If you’re more of a spirits person, add a visit to Australia’s highest altitude distillery!
A couple of heart-starters. Credit: Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery
Apart from being up high, Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery brings a real taste of European ski culture to the Aussie slopes. Using pure Snowy Mountain water and brass equipment imported from Germany, these guys create award-winning schnapps, gin and vodka, and the adjoining Stillhouse Kitchen and sculpture gardens is a great way to make a day of it.
PARTY IN THE SNOW!
Speaking of getting a drink, every snow bunny knows that the best part of hitting the slopes is the apres-ski!
Would you party with this crew? Credit: First Base
Thredbo Mountain has an incredible range of fun events including the annual vintage apres-ski party, First Base.
Pull out your best retro sweater and hit the dancefloor to all the best throwback tunes including some of Australia's biggest names in music.
Champagne ok for you? Credit: Thredbo
While you're at it, nothing says ‘apres-ski’ like a nice glass of bubbles, and no one does bubbles better than French Champagne house G.H. Mumm.
Exclusive to Thredbo, G.H. Mumm runs a series of events including the Kareela Supper Club on Saturday nights, sunrise ski sessions and the exclusive G.H Mumm Long Lunch.
Join the Rainbow Festival. Credit: Thredbo
In 2023, the all-inclusive Rainbow Mountain Festival will also return. Founded in 2018, the festival is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.
Featuring live music and fun snow activities, the Rainbow Mountain Festival will take over Thredbo from August 10 - 12; your chance to be part of a truly unique event for the mountain and the LGBTQI community.
Ready to book your Jindabyne snow getaway?
Discovery Parks - Jindabyne is your perfect winter escape!
