Beanie, gloves, thermals…check. Updated playlists, sunnies and a great car companion…check! These are the makings of an awesome road trip to the snowy mountain regions of NSW, specifically Mt Kosciuszko.
Neighbour to arguably some of the best ski fields in Australia, there are many trails, summit hikes (dependant on the weather), and mountain-immersed lookouts to visit, and a fabulous break from the normal winter weekend.
Only a stones throw away from Canberra, the mountains are the place to be. This time of year, ‘Kozzie’ is buzzing. We booked a caravan (with heating and an electric blanket) at the Kosciuszko Tourist Park for a very affordable price. The grounds are tranquil, spacious and comfortably isolated, with some of the most impressive amenities and friendliest staff (not to mention the residential kangaroos were a plus)
Arriving Saturday afternoon after our 8am set off from Sydney, we hung out at the holiday park, which offers surrounding bushwalks and various scenic trails. The staff were extremely helpful, providing maps and any needed information. By nightfall, we rugged up and drove into Jindabyne to the RSL, for a cheeky glass of red and enjoyed the gathering of the locals, the snow bums and the weekend tourists.
Sunday was an unconventional alarm at 7am. -1 degree outside, we layered up our long sleeves and arrive at Charlotte’s Pass summit track at 8am, where we parked the car at the main gates and walked 30 minutes to the lookout. The stunning, still and almost eerie snow capped mountains stood, while we took a breather, basking in their towering presence. We continued to walk as far as the path would allow, conveniently to the snowy river, until the path was obstructed by snow. It was deserted and captivating. We’d warmed up from the walk and enjoyed the beautiful natural elements before us – a mixture of blues, greens, whites and browns of the mountains.
The drive back was quiet, as we recovered from the early start. An incredible way to spend the weekend, we arrived in Canberra Sunday afternoon around 3pm. This is a must-do road trip, for skiers and non-skiers alike. And in all, being at the highest point of Australia definitely sent us back home on a high.
Accommodation: www.kositreat.com.au
By Madeleine Hill
www.madeleinehill.com
