The alpine town of Jindabyne has a lot going for it: beautiful natural scenery, top-notch eateries, and front-door access to Kosciuszko National Park, the state’s largest. Nestled along the mighty Lake Jindabyne, it’s extra special in winter with some of Australia’s best ski resorts on its doorstep, a buzzing apres-ski vibe, incredible walks, snow sports, and wide-open country views dusted with snow if you’re lucky. In the cooler months, this otherwise laid-back town transforms into a hive of activity, drawing visitors from across NSW and beyond for a dose of cold-weather fun. A trending winter favourite, Jindabyne is the perfect excuse for a mid-season getaway, with crisp winter air and outdoor adventures aplenty. Ready to join in the fun? Here are some of the best things to see, eat, and do in Jindabyne this winter.
Things to do in Jindabyne this winter
Country charm and outdoor adventure abound in this picturesque corner of NSW. Start your visit with a scenic drive along Lake Jindy to catch the sunset, then head out for a paddle across its calm waters by canoe or kayak.
If it’s snow sports you’re after, you won’t be disappointed because the list is long. Both Perisher and Thredbo are around 30 minutes from town. You can catch the Ski Tube from Bullocks Flat Terminal in the Thredbo Valley to Perisher’s alpine peaks, then spend the day on the slopes. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced skier, there’s something for everyone. Or if you prefer to stay out of the cold, cosy up by the fire, enjoy a meal at one of the resort restaurants, and soak up all the winter serenity around.
For something bucket list worthy, book a scenic flight with Snowy Mountains Helicopters and take in the vast alpine views over Kosciuszko National Park. You can also take on the challenge of hiking to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, just a 20-minute drive from town via the dreamy Alpine Way. But the weather can change on a dime, so make sure to check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website before you go.
Wondering where to warm up if the weather gets frigid? Jindabyne is home to plenty of cosy eateries and local pubs worth settling into. The Banjo Paterson Inn is a classic Aussie pub, with solid beers on tap, all the go-to pub staples and a traditional stone fireplace to warm up by. For oven-fresh pastries, warm pies and sausage rolls, stop by Nimmitabel Bakery, while Birchwood should be your go-to for quality coffee and standout vegan dishes in a cosy setting. For something more refined, Embers Fireside Restaurant is Jindabyne’s top spot for a premium meal and delicious cocktails. Other local favourites include Cocina Taqueria, known for its hearty Mexican dishes and tequila that’ll warm you right up, and Brumby Bar & Grill, a long-standing local hangout serving beers on tap, with DJs and dancing for over 20 years.
What else can you do?
Jindabyne is the kind of place where you can lay low in an almost remote alpine setting or go all out, embracing the great outdoors. Other popular activities around town include horse riding tours, the gentle Waterfall Walking Track surrounded by seasonal wildflowers, and 18 kilometres of trails around Lake Crackenback and the Thredbo Valley for even more time on the slopes. If you plan to stay a while and don’t mind splashing out, Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa is a standout pick. Set on the edge of Kosciuszko National Park, it feels like a European-style escape set amidst 150 acres of striking bushland.
Don’t leave without a stroll through the town centre, where you can browse local boutiques like Mountain Spirit Living for gifts and jewellery, Design & Detail for a mix of art, homewares, and one-of-a-kind finds, and Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre for more local gems. Read more about Jindabyne and find accommodation options here and keep an eye on the weather before you head out on Destination Jindabyne.
How to get there
Jindabyne sits at the edge of the Snowy Mountains, around a 5-hour drive from Sydney, seven hours from Melbourne and just 2 hours from Canberra — making it one of winter’s hottest destinations for travellers and snow-seekers from all three cities. Public transport is available, but slower. You can take a train from Central to Canberra or Cooma, then transfer to a direct bus to Jindabyne. Direct coaches with Greyhound is also an option. During ski season, the Snowy Mountains Bus Service runs daily between Jindabyne, Perisher and Thredbo. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.