10 Snowy Mountains Accommodation Options to Book Before They’re Gone!
SO YOU’RE PLANNING A TRIP TO THE SNOWIES IN AUSTRALIA? THIS SNOWY MOUNTAINS ACCOMMODATION GUIDE WILL COME IN SUPER HANDY!
The Snowy Mountains are one of the best getaways from Sydney during winter (in fact, all seasons)! From hiking up Australia’s tallest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, to wild swimming spots, beautiful caves, and wildlife watching, it’s a must-see destination on any travel bucket list! And if you are feeling a little unsure about where to base yourself, whether that is Thredbo, Perisher, Jindabyne, or somewhere a little quieter, I am here to help.
I know from experience that picking the right place to stay can make all the difference, especially with the driving distances, parking at the ski fields, and the type of trip you’re planning (a family getaway, a ski-heavy adventure, or a cosy alpine break).
As you scroll, you’ll find cheap Snowy Mountains accommodation, mid-range, and luxury stays, covering everything from hotels and lodges to self-contained Airbnbs. I have included a Snowy Mountains Map to help guide you through the region easily!
Top 3 Snowy Mountains Accommodation Options
Thredbo Alpine Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐Rating 4.2/5
NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park
⭐⭐⭐ Rating 4.3/5
Banjo Paterson Inn
⭐⭐⭐ Rating 9.1/10
Snowy Mountains Map & Areas
Because the Snowy Mountains cover such a wide area, choosing the right place to stay can really shape how easy (or tricky) your days feel. Some of the best things to do here are hours apart, so I always recommend thinking about what kind of trip you want before locking in your accommodation.
If you’re visiting mainly for the ski season, you’ll want to base yourself close to the slopes. I recommend choosing Thredbo and Perisher as your top picks for ski-in-ski-out stays. Both have a good range of lodges, hotels, and apartments right near the lifts, so you can spend less time driving and more time on the snow.
If you prefer a lively town with more dining, shopping, and off-slope activities, then I recommend Jindabyne. It has a wider variety of accommodation, from budget motels to luxury lakefront apartments. Moreover, it works beautifully if you’re planning to visit in summer with lake adventures, mountain biking, and bushwalking!
Now, if you’re keen to explore beyond the usual spots, like Yarrangobilly Caves or Paddy’s River Falls, you’ll probably want to split your stay. It’s a long haul from Thredbo or Jindabyne to these places (2+ hours one way), so spending a night or two in Talbingo or even camping in the park will make your trip much more relaxed.
TO SUMMARISE:
- For ski trips: Stay in Thredbo, Perisher, or Charlotte Pass to be right on the snow.
- For year-round adventure with town comforts: Base yourself in Jindabyne.
- For exploring caves, waterfalls, and quieter trails: Plan a second base in Talbingo, Adaminaby, or Tumbarumba.
Cheap Snowy Mountains Accommodation
If you are visiting the Snowy Mountains with a tight budget, these are my recommendations:
1. Winterhaus Lodge Thredbo Village
⭐⭐8.6/10 (312 reviews)
Looking for a cozy stay in Thredbo? Winterhaus Lodge is just a 3-minute walk to the Village Square and about 7 minutes to the Kosciuszko Express chairlift! The lodge has everything you need for a relaxing stay, including rooms with central heating, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. After a day on the slopes, unwind by the fireplace in the guest lounge or enjoy a drink at the bar.
2. NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park
⭐⭐8.4/10 (665 reviews)
Rates in the Snowy Mountains can be on the higher side, but this spot has great value, especially if you’re looking to stick to a budget. The park has multiple cabin options, starting with cabin stays that include free access to park amenities, a comfy bed, a flat-screen TV, and shared bathroom facilities.
But if you’d rather have your own space (and your own bathroom!), I highly recommend upgrading to the Snow Gum Cabin. Here, you’ll get a private bungalow with its own bathroom and beautiful mountain views, and all the basics you need for a comfortable stay. Furthermore, there are also studio and standard studio options if you want a little extra comfort!
This place is especially ideal for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers, good value, great location, and flexible options.
You’re just a 7-minute drive from Kosciuszko National Park and only a 10-minute walk to the Irish Memorial. It’s easy to see why this is a great value pick in Jindabyne!
3. Banjo Paterson Inn
⭐⭐9.1/10 (2,113 reviews)
Banjo Paterson Inn is a budget-friendly stay right in the heart of Jindabyne, just across from Lake Jindabyne and an easy walk to shops, cafes, and the visitor centre. It’s part of a lively pub complex with two bars, an on-site microbrewery, and a casual restaurant.
Rooms range from standard king and double rooms to larger family suites (some even with loft beds), and many Lakeview rooms have private balconies overlooking the water. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, a 50″ smart TV, heating and air-con, a small fridge, and tea and coffee facilities. There’s free parking on-site, plus a games room and live entertainment most nights in the pub. Wrap up your ski session with a craft beer at Kosciuszko Brewery, or indulge in flaky pastries and smooth coffee from Sundance Bakehouse!
4. Kookaburra Lodge
⭐⭐ 8.7/10 (1,314 reviews)
Kookaburra Lodge sits in the heart of Jindabyne, very close to the local cafes, shops, and the lake foreshore. The rooms have a private bathroom, heating, and access to shared kitchen facilities, which can be handy if you’re looking to self-cater.
Free parking and a drying room are a bonus for ski trips, and there’s an outdoor deck where you can relax and take in glimpses of Lake Jindabyne! Thredbo and Perisher are about a 30-minute drive away, and you’ll find local ski shuttles running in winter. I’d suggest picking up takeaway from nearby Burger Biz for a quick bite— a local favourite!
Mid-Range Snowy Mountains Accommodation
Here’s the list of stays that are a step up from budget, with more comfort and better features.
5. Chalet Jindabyne
⭐⭐8.4/10 (217 reviews)
Chalet Jindabyne is just one minute away from the town centre! Every room comes with heating and a private bathroom. There’s a shared kitchen where you can cook your own meals (handy if you’re staying longer or travelling with kids), a lounge, a games room, and an outdoor spa and free BBQ facilities!
6. Horizons Lake Jindabyne
⭐⭐8.4/10 (1000 reviews)
Horizons offers full apartment-style stays right on the edge of Lake Jindabyne, just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. Each suite includes a kitchen, lounge, and private balcony with lake or mountain views — ideal if you’re planning a longer trip or travelling with kids. There’s also a heated indoor pool, tennis courts, and an on-site restaurant for easy dining.
You can park your car and forget it, with ski shuttles available nearby and trails right outside. The resort layout means a lot of space and privacy, even during busy seasons. I recommend it for families or couples looking for convenience, comfort, and views.
7. Campervan/RV in East Jindabyne
⭐⭐5/5 (9 reviews)
Meet Bronte, a lovingly converted vintage Bedford bus nestled in the peaceful surrounds of Jindabyne. Inside this guest-favourite property, you’ll find a comfy bed, a convertible lounge, a tidy kitchenette, and an espresso machine!
Wake up to fresh mountain air, sip your brew with a view, and enjoy the fenced yard if you’ve brought a furry friend. With space for three, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, parking, a washing machine, and a composting toilet, Bronte is perfect for travellers chasing charm with a side of quirk!
Luxury Snowy Mountains Accommodation
Here are some of the luxury options that I highly recommend.
8. Thredbo Alpine Hotel
⭐⭐ 8.7/10 (2,209 reviews)
Credit: Destination NSW
This is the place to be if you’re after the full alpine village experience. Thredbo Alpine Hotel sits right near the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift, making it one of the most convenient places to stay in town. Rooms have basic modern amenities, private bathrooms, and great views of the slopes. The hotel has a sauna, ski storage, in-house dining options, a swimming pool, and a bar! Step outside and you’re just minutes from trails, events, and live music. I recommend it for couples and families!
9. Brenti’s Mountain Inn
⭐⭐8.3/10 (393 reviews)
If luxury is what you’re after, The Vreni’s Mountain Inn is sure to impress. With private parking, a spa and wellness centre, and three restaurants on-site, you’ll feel completely spoiled during your stay. I recommend booking early to snag a room with the best mountain views!
Rooms come with everything you need for a comfortable stay: an electric kettle, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, two single beds plus a large double bed, a tea and coffee maker, and a refrigerator for your snacks and drinks.
Another big perk is the location. You’ll be just a 5-minute walk from the Kosciuszko Chairlift, Snowgums Chairlift, and Merritts Double Chairlift!
10. Lake Jindabyne Hotel
⭐⭐8.9/10 (1,797 reviews)
If you’re travelling with family or a small group, their Private Family Deluxe Rooms are a great pick. You’ll get your own terrace with lovely lake views, a private bathroom, a cosy seating area, and four comfy beds in a fully air-conditioned room!
The on-site restaurant, strung with pretty fairy lights, is a favourite among past guests. You’ll have free Wi-Fi, and the location couldn’t be better; it’s just a 4-minute walk to the Mount Kosciuszko Summit Trail!
The property is wheelchair accessible
Snowy Mountains Accommodation: FAQs
I’ve tried answering the most frequently asked questions about the Snowy Mountains below!
1. What is the Best Time to Visit the Snowy Mountains?
While the Snowy Mountains is an all-year destination, I highly recommend visiting around July and August! That’s when you’ll get the best snow experience.
However, summer is great for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and getting outdoors in the fresh mountain air. Spring is the time to see wildflower blooms and enjoy mild hiking conditions. And autumn is perfect for cool-weather adventures, escaping the crowds, and spending cosy evenings by a fireplace.
How Do I Get to the Snowy Mountains?
- By Car: Driving from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains is the most flexible and popular option, especially if you want to explore at your own pace. It’s about a 5 to 6-hour drive to Jindabyne, which is the main base town for visitors. From Jindabyne, it’s another 30 to 40 minutes to reach the ski resorts like Thredbo and Perisher. If you’re visiting in winter, you’ll need to carry snow chains when driving into Kosciuszko National Park (unless you’re in a 4WD). Chains can be easily hired from towns like Cooma and Jindabyne along the way.
- By Public Transport: If you’d rather not drive, there are coach services that operate from Sydney during the snow season. These buses typically run to Jindabyne and continue on to the resorts at Perisher and Thredbo. It’s a longer trip — usually around 7 to 8 hours — but it’s a good option if you prefer to sit back and relax. Some packages even include lift passes and accommodation, making it hassle-free for ski trips.
- By Plane: You can also fly from Sydney to Snowy Mountains Airport near Cooma, which is the closest airport to the resorts. The flight takes about an hour, and from there it’s roughly a 1-hour drive to Jindabyne, or a little more to Thredbo and Perisher. Shuttle services connect the airport to the main resort areas, so it’s quite convenient if you want to save time.
Also Read: How to Go to the Snowy Mountains From Sydney
Snowy Mountains Accommodation: Wrap-Up
That’s a wrap on the best Snowy Mountains accommodation options! I’d love to hear your favorites, or if you have any hidden gems to suggest, let me know. We’re always just a DM away!
