Things to do in Jindabyne: Your Guide to the Perfect Weekend in the Snowy Mountains

Perched on the edge of Kosciusko National Park, Jindabyne is as scenic as they come, boasting prime views of the pristine lakes and rivers that run through the Snowy Mountains. It’s also close to major ski resorts like Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte, making it a great base for a weekend of skiing, snowboarding and all things après.

The once-sleepy spot is a destination in its own right with plenty to keep you busy. Look no further for your hitlist of the best things to do in Jindabyne.

Sundance Bakehouse

If you’re heading to the mountains and plan on being out and about all day, head to Sundance to pick up some gourmet sandwiches for the road. Sundance Bakehouse can also sort you out for hot coffee and a freshly baked bread roll, pastry or deliciously chunky pie.

6 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne

Birchwood

Sit down to breakfast at the super-popular Birchwood. The café’s menu changes with the seasons but always features healthy, hearty dishes as well as plenty of gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options. It's exceptionally cosy inside and is a great place to while away a few hours if you're in need of a battery recharge. 

3/3 Gippsland Street, Jindabyne

Red Door Roastery

Soak up the lake views at Red Door Roastery by nabbing an outdoor table and tucking into the all-day breakfast. why the name? These guys roast their beans on-site! 

10/17/33 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne

Cocina Tacqueria

Cocina Tacqueria is a lively eatery that serves up Mexican classics, and the best margaritas in the Mountains. You can choose from small plates, tacos and burritos alongside an extensive drinks list. We recommend the tequila flights for the best sample of what's on offer.  

Shop 5/33 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne

Café Darya

Taste-test Persian cuisine at Café Darya, a longstanding local haunt. The dishes are rich and brimming with beautiful spices, and the eatery is BYO beer and wine. You can expect plenty of fresh coriander, parsley, dill, mint, saffron and turmeric. The walls are decked out with Persian crafts, creating a cosy atmosphere in which to unwind after a big day. 

Snowy Mountains Plaza, 3 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne

Tracie’s Café

Do what the locals do and pop into Tracie’s Café. An unassuming spot next to the service station, the café is a bit of an insider secret, selling hot drinks along with homemade cakes, biscuits, pies, and sandwiches.

Sitchu Tip: Don't leave without trying the famous Jindabyne Love Cake! 

Shop 3, Snowy Valley Centre, Kosciuszko Road, East Jindabyne

The Wild Brumby Distillery

Sample the schnapps at The Wild Brumby Distillery (and pick up a bottle to take home). At this award-winning distillery, they make schnapps using local Aussie fruits, as well as gin and gluhwein. 

Alpine Way &, Wollondibby Road, Crackenback

Banjo Paterson Inn

For local beer and colourful cocktails, head to the Banjo Paterson Inn, affectionately dubbed ‘The Banj’ by locals. Along with a pub area, the inn has a cocktail bar and a nightclub where DJs spin the decks on weekends.

Attached to The Banj you'll find Australia’s first mountain brewery-slash-pub, Kosciuszko Brewing Company, With 600-litre brewing tanks tucked below the bar, it’s the freshest pour in town. 

1 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne

Snowy Wilderness

To see the rugged landscapes up close, sign up for a horse trek or 4WD tour with Snowy Wilderness. There are half- and full-day rides on offer, as well as epic, multi-day treks.

2911 Barry Way, Ingebirah

Snowy Heli

Soar over the peaks of the Snowy Mountains with a helicopter ride from Snowy Mountains Helicopters. This company offers 30- and 60-minute trips, along with a quick 10-minute jaunt above Lake Jindabyne. 

Jindabyne Airport, 56 Tinworth Drive, Jindabyne

Lake Jindabyne

Follow the path that winds around the lake and you'll spot sculptures, monuments and artworks that tell the story of explorers and the Snowy Mountains Scheme. During the warmer months, you can windsurf and sail on the lake. The lake is also a lovely place to enjoy a picnic should you fancy a bit of downtime. 

Alpine Yoga

For a virtuous start to the day, twist, bend and stretch your body with a yoga class at Alpine Yoga. Try a class and lap up the mountain views.

7 Baggs Street, Jindabyne

Shop Jindabyne Village

Apres-She and Design Detail are all beautiful boutiques. You can also stock up on snacks and groceries at The Market Jindabyne. The shelves are lined with wholefoods, including vegan eats and treats, and there’s a coffee bar on-site.

Jindabyne Disc Golf

Frisbee golf is growing in popularity, and you can play it yourself at the Jindabyne Disc Golf centre. Make your way around this 18-hole course, before hitting the slopes in the afternoon.

Foreshore Park, Jindabyne

Hamilton House

This luxury villa stay boasts mountain views and beautiful interiors to provide the perfect couple's retreat. In close proximity to Lake Jindabyne and the slopes, you have everything you need at Hamilton House for the ultimate snow weekend.

8245 The Snowy River Way, Jindabyne

Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains

On the fringe of the lake, the Rydges Horizon Snowy Mountains is a four-star self-contained property has lovely, luxe touches, like an indoor heated pool, and balcony in every room.

10 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne

Loving our edit of the best things to do in Jindabyne? You should also check out our Thredbo guide or you can head straight to our Destinations page for even more wanderlust and inspiration.