Jindabyne Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally beautiful town of Jindabyne in Snowy Mountains, New South Wales, Australia. Follow this comprehensive guide for the best things to do, see, and experience in Jindabyne.


Introduction to Jindabyne

Nestled in Snowy Mountains in the southeastern region of New South Wales (NSW), Australia, Jindabyne dazzles visitors with its picturesque landscapes and wealth of outdoor activities. Known as the gateway to the Snowy Mountains, Jindabyne is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts who come to ski and snowboard in the nearby resorts. But Jindabyne has much more to offer beyond skiing and snowboarding; it is also home to culturally significant museums, stunning lakes, and exhilarating hikes.

List of Places to Visit in Jindabyne

Follow this list to discover the best of what Jindabyne has to offer.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Jindabyne Historical Society Museum: A museum dedicated to preserving the history of the Snowy Mountains region.
  • The Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre: A place to learn about and honor the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, one of the largest engineering feats in the world.

Natural Attractions of Jindabyne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Jindabyne: This man-made lake spans over 30km and offers excellent trout fishing, kayaking, and skiing opportunities.
  • Kosciuszko National Park: Named after Australia’s tallest mountain, this park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, boasting scenic trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
  • Thredbo Valley Track: A 16km-long bike trail that offers breathtaking views of Snowy Mountains and the Thredbo River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jindabyne

  • The Main Range Walk: A challenging, 22km-long hike that offers stunning views of the Australian Alps.
  • The Jindabyne-Perisher Trail: A 20km-long, intermediate-level mountain bike trail that leads bikers through the heart of Snowy Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Jindabyne: Activities and Tours

  • Thredbo Alpine Village: A popular ski resort that offers slopes for all skill levels, as well as a variety of summer activities such as mountain biking and hiking.
  • Helicopter tours: Take in the stunning aerial views of Snowy Mountains and Lake Jindabyne from a helicopter tour.
  • Fly fishing: Embark on a guided fly fishing tour on the Thredbo River for a chance to catch trout while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jindabyne

Day 1: Arrive in Jindabyne and visit the Jindabyne History Museum. Day 2: Explore the beauty of Kosciuszko National Park. Day 3: Take on the challenge of the Main Range Walk. Day 4: Enjoy a helicopter tour of Snowy Mountains. Day 5: Spend the day at Thredbo Alpine Village. Day 6: Go fly fishing on the Thredbo River. Day 7: Leave Jindabyne and explore nearby destinations.

Food and Drink Scene of Jindabyne

Jindabyne is known for its hearty Australian cuisine and local brews.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kangaroo steak: A classic Australian dish, kangaroo steak is lean, healthy, and delicious.
  • Lamb chops: Lamb chops are a popular dish in Jindabyne and are often served with sides like roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes.
  • Damper: A traditional Australian bread, damper is made with flour, water, and salt, and can be fried or roasted over an open fire.

Local Beverages

  • Snowy Mountains Brewery: A brewery famous for its handcrafted beers, made using local mountain water and Australian hops.
  • Tumbarumba Wine Region: Jindabyne is located close to Tumbarumba Wine Region, which is renowned for its cool-climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Where to Stay in Jindabyne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jindabyne offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget.

  • Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa: A luxury resort that offers a spa, restaurant, and a range of outdoor activities like fishing and archery.
  • Jindy Inn: A centrally located hotel known for its hospitality and comfortable rooms.
  • Siesta Villa: A cozy and affordable option with a stunning view of Lake Jindabyne.

What to Buy in Jindabyne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jindabyne offers a range of unique souvenirs and locally crafted products, including:

  • Snowy Mountains Brewery beer: Bring home a six-pack of the local brews from Snowy Mountains Brewery.
  • Handcrafted wooden souvenirs: Pick up a handcrafted wooden bowl, tray, or coasters from a local artisan.
  • Jindabyne Trout Hatchery: The hatchery offers a unique opportunity to catch your own trout and bring it home.

Local Culture and Customs of Jindabyne

Jindabyne has a laid-back culture that celebrates close ties with nature and outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit Jindabyne

The best time to visit Jindabyne depends on your interests. Winter, from June to August, is a popular time for skiing and snowboarding. Spring, from September to November, is great for hiking and enjoying wildflowers. Summer, from December to February, is perfect for fishing, biking, and other summer activities. Fall, from March to May, is great for enjoying the autumn colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jindabyne

Do:

  • Do bring sunscreen and outdoor gear, based on the season you are visiting.
  • Do respect the natural surroundings and follow the Leave No Trace principles.
  • Do try local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave litter on the trails or in the parks.
  • Don’t swim in Lake Jindabyne outside of designated swimming areas.
  • Don’t interfere with wildlife or destroy flora and fauna.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jindabyne

Jindabyne is generally a safe city for tourists. However, always be cautious and take appropriate precautions. Here are a few tips:

  • Be aware of the weather conditions when embarking on outdoor activities.
  • See the local signage and warnings to avoid entering areas that are dangerous for swimming, hiking, or skiing.

Health in Jindabyne

In Jindabyne, it is essential to stay hydrated while engaging in outdoor activities. Sunscreen is a must, and insect repellent can be useful in the summer months. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, be sure to bring essential medications with you. In case of emergency, dial 000.

Getting to Jindabyne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Jindabyne is located about 5 hours by car from Sydney and 2 hours from Canberra. The following transportation options are available:

Airports Near Jindabyne

  • Cooma-Snowy Mountains Airport: Located 60km from Jindabyne, this airport connects to Sydney via Rex Airlines.
  • Canberra International Airport: A major airport in the region, is 170km away.

Bus Stations Near Jindabyne

  • Greyhound Bus Australia: A bus service that operates daily from Sydney, Canberra, and other regional areas.

Other Options

  • Private car services: Taxis and private cars can be rented or hired from local tourism companies.

How to Get Around in Jindabyne

Jindabyne is a walkable town, and many attractions are located within walking distance of each other. To get around Jindabyne and explore the surrounding areas, renting a car or taking public transit would be the best options.

Where to Go Next from Jindabyne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jindabyne is located in one of Australia’s most beautiful regions and offers a plethora of nearby destinations and excursions. Here are a few options:

  • Perisher Valley: A breathtaking ski resort located 33km south of Jindabyne that offers skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating.
  • Kosciuszko Road: A scenic drive that takes visitors from Jindabyne to Charlotte Pass through the Snowy Mountains.
  • Bega and Merimbula: A road trip to the picturesque towns of Bega and Merimbula is a perfect day trip from Jindabyne.

Conclusion

Jindabyne is a town that offers something for everyone. With its culturally rich museums, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor activities, it is an ideal destination for adventure travelers, nature lovers, and history buffs. Follow this guide to discover the best of Jindabyne and get a taste of what makes it a unique and captivating destination in Snowy Mountains, New South Wales, Australia.