The Snowy Valleys is a region of contrasts, encompassing Australia’s highest mountains in the east, and stretching towards the fertile plains of the Riverina in the west.
Winter
In some areas, we see snow in winter, making the landscape seems magical and prompting people to snuggle up by the fire. With good luck, and good timing, you could swim Yarrangobilly’s Thermal Pools while surrounded by snow. The adventurous strap on snowshoes and head for the back country, making sure their packs are well-prepared in case the weather turns. Sometimes in winter, you can see Batlow’s apple trees sprinkled with snow, or enjoy the magic of Pilot Hill Arboretum in a blanket of white.
In 2021, the Snowy Valleys launches its new Winter Bites Festival, with major events in Tumbarumba (5th June), Adelong (17th July) and Batlow (28th August), as well as fringe events across the region. With this wonderful new reason to rug up and get outside, we’re so excited at what this winter will bring.
Spring
In spring, plants that have been waiting throughout winter finally burst forth. The rolling hills, valleys and plains are a riot of colour, from freshly blooming tulips in the main streets, to green pastures with bouncing new spring lambs.
It’s the time of budburst in the Tumbarumba Wine Region, with vignerons working hard to ensure another award-winning vintage of these famous cold-climate wines. We spend time outdoors and explore the great tracks and trails of our National Parks and State Forests. The new season is celebrated through a broad range of events like the Tumbarumba Spring Flower Festival, Batlow Apple Blossom Festival, the Hume & Hovell Ultra, Upper Murray Challenge, and the Three Bridges at Tooma Markets. The fruit trees are a sight to behold – their gorgeous blossoms a delight.
As the weather continues to warm, the waterways of the Snowy Valleys become popular places to relax. The rivers, creeks and dams throughout the region provide for a range of activities, whether it’s for boating, skiing, paddling, swimming or fishing, our crystal clear waters are the envy of many.
Summer
During the Christmas period the shores of Blowering Dam are dotted with campers, and otherwise secluded spots in Kosciuszko National Park become mini-villages filled with holiday-makers. In January, the Tumut Cycle Classic sees riders from across NSW, ACT, and Victoria experience the sensational views of Tumut and surrounds while raising money for the local hospital.
Towards the end of summer, Tumbarumba’s quiet park, just behind the main street, becomes the venue for Tumbafest. Sprawled under shady trees are market stalls featuring fresh local produce, wines, ciders and craft beers. Some sit alongside the creek that meanders through the park, others enjoy dancing to the amazing bands and musical artists featured on the main stage, or sample the range of delicious food available.
Autumn
With autumn settling upon us, the region changes from green, through gold, to red as the leaves turn and fall. It’s a busy time for festivals as everything cools once more, with Rock the Turf, Festival of the Falling Leaf, Tumut MTB’s 3 Hour Enduro, and the Snowy Valleys Cycle Challenge, which sees cyclists ride 144km from Adelong via Batlow to Tumbarumba and back. Batlow CiderFest is celebrated in May, closing the main street as visitors sample ciders and craft beer from local makers and those across the country.
With so many reasons to visit, no matter the time of year, we’re sure we’ll see you soon. The Snowy Valleys, always in season.