Tumut, Snowy Mountains — New South Wales

Tumut is a town in New South Wales, located in its Riverina region. It is also situated both on the banks of the Tumut River and at the foot of Snowy Mountains. The place-name was derived from an Aboriginal word that means ‘resting place by the river.’

Because of its location, the town has a lot to offer in terms of natural attractions. The river, for one, is recognized as one of the best places to fish for trout. With its numerous streams, keen fishermen will find ample space to cast their lines in. A walk along its banks will also afford scenic views that anyone will find relaxing.

Serious bushwalking, however, can be done following the Hume and Hovell Walking Track. This track becomes more interesting as visitors cross several swinging bridges on the way. The area is also home to such an abundance of bird and animal life that every walk will surely provide glimpses of them.

Visitors who come to Tumut during April and May will surely get entranced with the changing colors of leaves in parks and gardens dotting the town. Because of this, the Festival of the Falling Leaf is celebrated during this time. A walk through the town’s streets and parks, more particularly in Elm Drive, will surely feel like a dream come true as the colors of autumn bring delight to the eyes. This experience will certainly not be complete without a stroll through the Alex Stockwell Memorial Gardens, where European trees are planted. These gardens, on the corner of Richmond & Fitzroy Streets, were established to commemorate World War I.

Another interesting destination is the Yallakool Orchard, along West Gilmore Road. This particular orchard has its own unique policy—visitors can come and pick their own fruit during season.

Further out of the town but still worth a visit is Blowering Dam, accessed via the Snowy Mountains Road. The dam is ideal for picnics, water skiing, and fishing.

Another attraction worth visiting is the nearby Snowy Mountains Trout Farm, where fish stocks can be bought.

Nearer to the town is the Bonnie B's Shaker Shed, along Snowy Mountains Highway. For a small fee, visitors get to see the owner’s collection of salt and pepper shakers, thousands of them, in fact.

A visit to the town's African Violets Farm, however, will cost visitors nothing. Situated along Tumut Plains Road, this farm is reportedly the largest of its kind in the country. The farm is on the grounds of a historic structure, the Tumut Plains School House which more than a century old.

Strolling within the Stockwell Gardens will acquaint visitors with the different trees planted in it, as they are properly labeled for recognition.

Another outdoor destination is the Pioneer Park, located beside the Tumut River, and a pleasant spot to have picnics in.

Tumut also boasts of several well-preserved buildings. There’s the Oriental Hotel that was built in 1876 and the All Saints Anglican Church, constructed in the later part of the 19th century.