Kirwan Gardens 3
Travelling from Sydney to Jindabyne
We travel from Sydney to Jindabyne on a fairly regular basis however when we have friends or family who are planning a visit we are often asked about the best places to stop, how long it will take, and any other interesting things to see along the way.
The drive from Sydney to Jindabyne takes approximate 4.5 to 6 hours depending on which side of Sydney you are leaving from. We are based on the South side of Sydney so for us it’s a 4 hour 30 minute trip without any stops – but where is the fun in that. We tend to have our favourite stops along the way and it also depends on the time of day we are travelling in as to where we may stop.
Before you hit the open road, it’s crucial to plan your route. There are a couple of options to get from Sydney to Jindabyne, but the most common and straightforward route is as follows:
Sydney to Goulburn
Start your journey by heading south on the M5 Motorway/Hume Highway from Sydney. You’ll pass through suburbs like Liverpool and Campbelltown and then leave the city and head towards Mittagong.
This is often one of our first pit stops because on any road trip, the kids want McDonalds and there is a conveniently located McDonald’s at Sutton Forest which is approximately 1 hour from Campbelltown, along the freeway.
Here you’ll find a Shell service station if you need to top up on fuel, McDonald’s Sutton Forest (there is both a north and south bound restaurant), Coolabah Tree Cafe and Heatherbrae Pie’s which has it’s own drive-through.
Once you are finished at Sutton Forest, continue back onto the highway and on to Goulburn.
Goulburn to Canberra
If you skipped stopping at Sutton Forest then this is your next break option. Goulburn has two possible exits from the freeway. The second exit will get you straight to the McDonald’s south restaurant (you’ll see it on the hill to the right of the freeway). As you exit the freeway you’ll come to a large roundabout where you’ll need to turn right, you’ll then see the big Bunnings warehouse and to the right hand side some restaurant options, but probably the most noticable landmark is the Big Merino. Turn right at the Big Merino and you’ll find Subway, Trappers Bakery and a few other food options, with McDonald’s being located at the end of Sowerby Street. Be aware this McDonald’s get extremely busy during holiday periods.
Once you are finished in Goulburn, head back onto the Hume Highway (M31) heading southwest. This part of the journey offers stunning rural views as you approach our nation’s capital, Canberra.
Once you are back on the M31, it is only a 10 minute (give or take) drive till you’ll need to veer left onto the Federal Highway towards Canberra. This road takes you past Lake George which is worth a quick stop for a photo opportunity in any of the 2-3 rest stops along the lake edge and is especially beautiful at sunset. For a better view, a must when the lake is full of water, continue along the road until you begin to climb up into the hills where you’ll see the Weereewa Lookout on the left. Stop at the lookout and get a stunning view across Lake George and the surrounding area.
Once you have finished, head back onto the freeway and continue towards Canberra.
Canberra to Cooma
Once you arrive into Canberra you’ll see the Welcome to ACT sign. Keep left and take the exit onto Majura Parkway. It’s a bit deceiving as it looks like you are entering a truck rest stop, which you are, but it is also a way through onto the Majura Parkway which bypasses the centre of Canberra and is much quicker.
Continue south on the Majura Parkway (M23) for approximately 30 minutes. You’ll pass Ikea, Bunnings, and Canberra Airport on your way through. We generally don’t stop in Canberra but there is fuel available via the exit near Ikea if needed.
Continue along the freeway, which has now changed into the Monaro Highway and will take you through Jerrabombera and pst Gilmore. Soon enough you will be leaving Canberra.
Approximately 40 minutes from Canebrra you will find yourself in the beautiful village of Bredbo. Here you’ll find Bredbo Inn Hotel, Bredbo Christmas Barn, and The Bredbo Pie Shop. There is also a local park if the kids need to stretch the legs and restroom facilities.
Head back onto the Monaro Highway and continue heading towards Cooma.
Cooma to Jindabyne
Once you arrive in Cooma you’ll have another pit stop opportunity. This is usually where the kids want McDonald’s (if they didn’t get it in Goulburn) before we head into Jindabyne (where there is NO McDonald’s or big chain fast foods).
In Cooma you have the very popular Rhythm Snowports (open 24 hours during Winter), McDonald’s Cooma (is very busy in peak holiday times and especially during Winter), Subway, KFC, Under the Elms cafe, Coles, 123 Coffee House, several pharmacies, The Alpine Hotel (pub with bistro), Pha’s Thai (awesome option to pre-order your dinner – approx 45-60 mins in advance of when you’ll arrive in Cooma, order via their website), The Lott Cafe, and Kuma Pies & Pastries. Be sure to check individual websites or socials to see their opening hours.
There are plenty of options for fuel in Cooma.
Finally, follow the main road (Sharp Street) from Cooma and continue towards Jindabyne.
Approximately 25 minutes from Cooma you will arrive at another note worthy village called Berridale. Berridale includes great spots to stop including Shut the Gate Wines/The Little Grocer, The Bean and Barley Cafe and they have a skate park if your little ones want to burn some energy.
If you have the time, it is well worth a visit to Dalgety Brewing Company who are located about 25 minutes out of Berridale in Dalgety. Be sure to make a booking as they get very busy but it is a beautiful spot to enjoy some lunch and a few beverages. We often book a lunch at Dalgety during our trips, it is an easy 40 minute drive (via The Snowy River Way) from Jindabyne.
Now leave Berridale and continue on to Jindabyne where you’ll soon be welcomed by the awe-inspiring Snowy Mountains and the welcome view of Lake Jindabyne. It is approx 20 minutes from Berridale to Jindabyne.
Arriving in Jindabyne
As you drive over the crest on Kosciusko Road, you’ll be greeted by the beautiful Lake Jindabyne in front of you. You’ll weave your way around the lake where you’ll go past East Jindabyne village, and Tyrolean Village, passing over the Dam wall and around the bend to bring you into the centre of town.
Firstly you’ll see the Banjo Patterson Hotel on the left and Jindabyne Bowling Club on the right. As you continue along Kosciusko Road you’ll pass the Old Town Centre which has various shops, cafes, and ski rental options. Continue further along Kosciusko Road and you’ll pass by Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre where you’ll find more shops including Woolworths, BWS and several dining options. For more information on Jindabyne Restaurants and Things to Do be sure to check out our other pages.
You’ve arrived in Jindabyne!
Safety when driving to Jindabyne
The Snowy Mountains region is known for unpredictable weather, especially during the winter months. Before you start your journey, check the weather forecast and road conditions to ensure safe driving.
Be sure to tune into SNOWFM on 97.7 to hear the latest in road conditions or use LiveTraffic.com.
The trip from Sydney to Jindabyne is an adventure that takes you through beautiful landscapes, from the city to serene mountains. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable journey from Sydney to Jindabyne, New South Wales. Travel safe and take care.
We hope this little outline of a trip from Sydney to Jindabyne has helped and remember to drive safe and enjoy your stay.