Just a few hundred kilometres south west of Sydney lies the region of the Snowy Mountains. The area is commonly referred to as the "Snowies" or Australia's Alps to its locals. The Snowy Mountains are Australia's highest mountain range and contains its highest mountain, the Mount Kosciusko, standing at 228 meters. This high country is home to the most spectacular peaks, the clearest mountain streams and the coolest crisp air, making it a very interesting setting for a holiday get-away from the bustles of the city.

More than a half of the amazing alpine habitat in Australia lies within the boundaries of the Snowy Mountains. The undulating meadows and lush valleys are coupled with a good number of freshwater streams and unpolluted rivers. This abundance in natural attraction draws a large number of visitors from all around the country and the globe.

In addition to these scenic views, National Parks are also abundant in the area, and includes the Kosciusko National Park, which is the largest in New South Wales. Other parks that are justly popular include the Deua, Wadbilliga, the Namadgi and the South East Forests National Parks.

The different towns in the Snowies provide a wide variety of offerings. The town of Jindabyne, located along a beautiful man-made lake, is the main accommodation and shopping centre where the most famous ski resorts are only a few minutes away. It offers great restaurants and shops, with 3 hotels and a number of night clubs. Berridale is a small town that offers more or less the same amenities, but only smaller. Cooma, the largest town has a population of about 10,000 is the centre of farming and offers many historical structures, not to mention the oldest hotel that was established back in 1858. Kiandra was Snowies' gold mining town back in the 19th century and is home to amazing gravestones and ruins of this society.

In general, the Snowy Mountain region boasts of its sparking alpine lakes, its rugged gorges, trout-filled mountain streams, and its breathtaking bush land - visiting the area never fails to make one feel as if you are part of nature. Mountain air in Snowy Mountains is pure and unmatched, and summers are always perfect for touring holidays. Weather is almost always sunny and pleasant in the Snowies. As such, adventure activities ranging from outdoor sports to caving, cycling, kayaking, fishing, hiking, mountain biking rafting and horse back riding - coupled by mountain walks - make summer vacations always exhilarating.

In winter (from mid-June to October), Snowy Mountains take pride in its snowfield resorts where one can experience the best snow sports. It offers the most exhilarating cross-country and downhill skiing, snow shoeing, snowboarding or simple family fun in the snow. These recreational spots are enhanced with a wide range of accommodation and dining options to fit all kinds of preferences.

All natural occurring features found in the Snowy Mountains are very accessible by car. There are a wide range of accommodations depending on one's needs and taste. Backpacker hostels are available, as well as caravan or camps for those who are in for a nature trip; hotels, motels and resorts are available for those who are looking for affordable but quality accommodation. For those in for a little luxury, world class hotels and bread and breakfasts are available as well.