After waking up with an invigorating morning ocean swim in Sydney, you can be happily making snow angels in the magical Snowy Mountains by the afternoon. But what’s the rush? Embrace the journey as part of your holiday, taking the entire day or more to uncover the bounty of attractions and experiences on an alternative route. Cruise down through the Southern Highlands to the South Coast and then inland, or through Goulburn and Yass en route to Tumut and the snowfields.
Discover the delights of the Southern Highlands and South Coast route
Relax into holiday mode as you farewell Sydney, heading south along the Hume Highway towards the revitalising rolling hills of the Southern Highlands. Treat the cricket fans in your company with a short detour to Bowral, where you can relive the iconic moments of the game at the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame before surrendering to the sweet temptations of Gumnut Patisserie on Bong Bong Street, from lemon tartlets to cloud-like lamingtons. Or enjoy the sense of community at The Lodge Restaurant in nearby Berrima Vault House. Step back into the 1880s at this convict-built former inn reimagined as a members’ club, which flings open the doors of its smart restaurant to the public on weekends.
With a contented full belly, make for the coast via the lush Kangaroo Valley. Breathe in the eucalyptus-scented country air en route to the hinterland town of Berry, where delightful cafés proffering homemade cakes, pastries and preserves entice you to pause for afternoon tea.
Be dazzled by the azure blues of Jervis Bay as you continue your journey south on the Princes Highway to the pretty coastal town of Mollymook. Pause to browse its galleries or shops, or to treat yourself to a celebratory fresh seafood meal with a side of ocean views at Rick Stein at Bannisters.
After hitting the road again later that day or the following morning, take the time explore the quaint country towns and rugged national parks of the Eurobodalla region as well as the jewels of the Sapphire Coast on the way to Tathra, perhaps taking a pit stop to enjoy some freshly shucked oysters by the water at The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter in Narooma.
Farewell the sparkling sea at Tathra before heading inland to Bega, before pressing onto Jindabyne via Dalgety on the Snowy River Way. Take a moment in Dalgety to wonder what might have been if this candidate for the nation’s capital was selected. Instead of roundabouts and Parliament House, there’s good food, a historic bridge and a great country pub to discover.
Connect with the countryside via Gundagai and Tumut
Buckle up for another memorable adventure to the Snowy Mountains, heading south on the Hume Highway again, but this time bound for Goulburn. Take in the history of Australia’s first inland city as you stroll its storied streets and have a giggle getting a selfie with the Big Merino, then follow the signs to Yass, where an abundance of boutique wineries and gourmet restaurants within easy reach will tempt you to stay overnight.
When you’re ready to move on, peel off the Hume Highway to stretch your legs in charming Jugiong. Follow the scent of freshly baked bread to The Sir George Artisan Bakery to pick up some of its renowned sourdough for a picnic by the serene Murrumbidgee River, or leave the cooking in the very capable hands of The Sir George kitchen or the next-door Long Track Pantry café.
Cruise 30 minutes down the road to the handsome pioneering town of Gundagai. After another must-have photo, here with Gundagai’s beloved statue of the Dog on the Tuckerbox, deepen your knowledge of the region’s rich history at the Gundagai Historic Museum. Oozing country character, nine-room boutique hotel Flash Jacks makes the perfect base for an overnight stop.
Push on along the Snowy Mountains Highway to Tumut and on to Yarrangobilly Caves. Pull over to marvel at its six stunning limestone caves that were millions of years in the making, or to take a soothing soak in the natural thermal pool near the caves, which is a balmy 27°C year round.
Revel in the rugged beauty of the mountainous landscape as you navigate the longer route to the heart of the Snowies via the scenic Alpine Way. Connect with the friendly locals who grow your food when you purchase produce directly from the likes of Wilgro Orchards in Batlow. Then visit Khancoban, a small lakeside town only 1.5 hours’ drive from the ski resort at Thredbo, where Picked Parrot Providore offers another delectable taste of the region.
