Location: Kosciuszko Rd, Perisher Valley NSW

The Snowy Mountains serve as the location of the “purest” possible winter sports activities and as such are one of the top spots in the country for those wanting some winter fun at Thredbo or Perisher ski fields.

While it's home to four major ski resorts, Thredbo and Perisher are by far the most famous and offer the largest array of both facilities and opportunities for ski enthusiasts and non-skiers alike. Exactly which ski spot of the two appeals to you will depend on how you plan to spend your time there, and each has its pros and cons for visitors.

While you likely won't be disappointed by either of the fields, let's take a brief look at the pluses and minuses of each:

Perisher or Thredbo- which is better for me?

Perisher is the larger of the two, and generally has more overall variety in its runs as it's a combined blend of multiple resorts in one.

As a result, beginning skiers will likely want to choose Perisher – the variety of runs means that there's also more choice available for beginners, and the slopes at Perisher tend to be shorter overall.

Advanced skiers and boarders will also find the selection of different runs here more varied than those of Thredbo, so if you're the type who gets bored of repetition this may work in Perisher's favour. Perisher thus provides the major positive of being able to spend an entire day on the snow without doing the same run twice, and boredom will rarely crop up as a result.

Non-skiers will find Perisher good in some regards and lacking in others; there isn't a true “village” here to speak of, and the dining and shopping options are limited with little to no nightlife.

Generally, if the weather turns sour, there is little to do at Perisher, and it takes a fair amount of across-snow walking to get from A to B.

On the positive side, there's also more variety in non-ski activities and snow recreation as tobogganing, tubing and other family-friendly experiences are all catered for with more space to enjoy them. Perisher's sheer size compared to Thredbo also means the average visitor is more likely to be able to find an open corner of snow to themselves.

In all, the simplest way to break things down as far as choosing between them would be: beginning skiers: Perisher, more advanced skiers: Thredbo.

Thredbo, also has some positives working in its favour – advanced skiers will enjoy the longer and steeper runs on offer, and if you're a die-hard at all things wintery this will likely be the major factor working in its favour.

Those looking for nightlife and off-slope entertainment will likely find the atmosphere of Thredbo more satisfying, as unlike Perisher it doesn't practically “die” after dark.

Thredbo village is quite charming in and of itself, and the fact that it offers the convenience of being based “right in the snow” with a range of facilities around scores points for convenience as well. There's a range of shopping, restaurants and accommodation options to choose from that Perisher cannot fully compete with.

Getting around Thredbo is likewise easier due to its logical layout and well-run shuttle bus system. As far as cons go, Thredbo is typically more expensive than Perisher due to more limited options overall, while it's also harder to find a private piece of run even though Perisher has more visitors in total.

In all, the simplest way to break things down would be: beginning skiers: Perisher, more advanced skiers: Thredbo.

The second major choice those looking to ski in the Snowy Mountains will face is whether to stay “on snow” or at nearby Jindabyne and take transport in; Jindabyne is typically used as the accommodation base for budget-conscious travellers, and given its equal distance between both Perisher and Thredbo it can serve this function for both areas.

Driving to the Snowy Mountains' ski fields from Sydney can be quite a chore, and takes around 5.5 hours, while Melbourne has an even more length 7 hour drive time. Flying is possible from Canberra, and it's possible to get cheap flights by scouring the websites of Australia's budget carriers.

While ski enthusiasts who are looking to ski domestically do have other options, for those wanting the best overall ski conditions the Snowy Mountains is the obvious choice. For all its varying natural and historical charms, the Snowy Mountains' namesake remains its top thing to do.

There are a range of Snowy Mountains horse riding tours suitable for a variety of ages and ability levels, giving the average visitor the chance at a journey that harks back to the days of earlier, untouched Australia.

Location: Alpine Way, Crackenback, Snowy Mountains, NSW

The waters of the Snowy Mountains' Lake Crackenback and Thredbo River aren't just pretty to look at, they also serve as the hub for a myriad of aquatic activities that visitors to the region can take part in.

One of the more recent – and fun – additions to this lineup is river sledding, an experience that mixes the best bits of sightseeing, whitewater rafting and bodyboarding all in one.

It's an activity that the whole family can enjoy during the warmer months in the region requiring no prior experience, and an accurate symbol of how the Snowy Mountains as a whole is much more than a one-trick-pony of skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.

The experience involves suiting up in a protective, layered full-body wetsuit as even the warmest part of the Snowy Mountains' calendar still involves waters that can range from “chilly” to “chilling”, and then climbing aboard a purpose-built river sled.

The sleds resemble some kind of hybrid between a bodyboard and a li-lo pool lounge, however they handle remarkably well and are designed for stability having been designed in New Zealand for the goal of negotiating river rapids.

There are few more unique ways to see the sights of the Thredbo River than this, and the Kosciuszko National Park's inherent beauty takes on an entirely new perspective when viewed from the water.

The journey starts from the Thredbo River Diggings and propels riders down to Lake Crackenback itself, starting slowly and smoothly at first but taking on a whole other atmosphere once the first group of rapids are encountered. Tuition and reassuring guidance are given by the tour guides along the way, however, and they do a good job of ensuring that participants are comfortable in the water.

Varying grades of rapids make an appearance on the course, however, they're all low-level with a maximum grade of 3 only occurring in one spot, and the consequences for being dismounted from your sled are never severe.

While there are other ways to explore the Snowy Mountains, there are few that are more unique than a river sled tour – this is the only spot in Australia where such an experience is available.

River sledding tours depart daily from early November through to mid-June (warmer season only) from Lake Crackenback Resort, so if you're visiting the Snowy Mountains during summer there's never a better time to try something new and exhilarating.

Location: Werralong Road, Dalgety, Snowy Mountains, NSW

Beer isn't the only option for indulging your palate in the Snowy Mountains region, as wine also plays a role here and there are several small-scale wineries and vineyards on offer to visitors.

The Snowy Vineyard & Microbrewery is a solid choice, particularly for families visiting the area as it's much more of a family-style farm environment than your standard, run-of-the-mill corporate cellar door.

As a result there are farm animals here, so while adults are busy enjoying their samplings and tastings, the kids can run free on the large, open grassed area or get up close with the likes of pigs, chickens, ducks and sheep.

This is a hybrid vineyard and brewery providing the chance to sample wines and beers all at one locale that also doubles as a restaurant, and it's hard to determine what is the standout as each culinary offering is of a distinctly high standard.

The wines here are quite distinctive due to their intense flavour and the staff on hand are friendly and open about the wine providing generous samplings during their tours. It's an operation that's small and personal rather than clean-cut and corporate, and it never feels rushed or like you're being pressured to purchase more to take home.

"The wines here are quite distinctive due to their intense flavours and the staff on hand are friendly and open about the wines and provide generous samplings during their tours."

Beer-wise, there's quite a comprehensive selection of varieties here as well, and the Estate offers a course of 6 beer samplers capped off with a full-sized schooner of your favourite of these for a very reasonably $10 investment.

Combine enjoying your drink of choice with a meal from the restaurant – again, very high standard and offers a fairly diverse menu given the relatively small scale of the facility – and take your time on the verandah overlooking the wonderful scenery, and it's hard not to feel content with the world while here.

The Snowy Vineyard & Microbrewery is situated in a spot that's a bit out of the way – expect roughly a 45-minute drive from Jindabyne – but the down-to-earth nature of the hosts and tastes on offer here make the highly-scenic drive well worth it. The road is mostly dirt but the consistency is decent, and self-driving is a viable option, particularly if you're planning to stay at the cottage overnight.

Alternatively, we offer tours of the Estate with pickups from either Canberra or Jindabyne included, so if you're looking to indulge in a significant amount of alcohol and simply relax and enjoy the scenery each way, then the extra investment may be well worth it.

Location: Thredbo, NSW

Australia's highest mountain is perhaps the most distinctive feature of the entire Snowy Mountains region, and its surrounding national park also offers a cavalcade of natural spectacles that embody pure and pristine alpine Australia.

While not everyone will have the stamina to climb to the peak, Kosciuszko is unlike many country's “tallest mountains” in that it's fairly accessible to get to the peak.

Local operator K7 Adventures provides a range of walking itineraries that cover both ends of the walking spectrum, regardless of whether you're looking to be guided on a leisurely half-day stroll through some easy yet spectacular highlights or embrace the challenge of Kosciuszko itself, all bases are covered here.

The Snowy Mountains was voted by the Australian public as #6 on our list of Australia's 10 Most Epic Walks, and it's not hard to see why; the region blends ancient glacial landscapes draped in alpine wildflowers in the warmer months and snow-dusted peaks in cool periods, as well as offering dramatic and sweeping 360-degree views in many places.

Literally hundreds of kilometres of walking trails are on offer here, and as a result, the opportunities for customising a walking journey in the Snowy Mountains are nearly endless. Exactly which walking trail will appeal to you will likely depend on a variety of factors including your fitness level, time you wish to allocate, and budget constraints.

The Snowy Mountains was voted by the Australian public as #6 on our list of Australia's 10 Most Epic Walks, and it's not hard to see why; the region blends ancient glacial landscapes draped in alpine wildflowers in the warmer months and snow-dusted peaks in cool periods.

There's an emphasis here on taking a route where the alpine flora is at its best and brightest, with plenty of time to take photos and admire the landscape, as well as providing a stunning overview of the main Kosciuszko range.

Extend things up a notch by taking the 10km walks to either Dead Horse Gap or the Ramsheads, and you'll get an extended dose of additional scenery such as dramatic rock formations, rare and distinct plant communities and iconic snow gum trees.

Of course, all of these are enjoyable but pale in comparison to the hike up Kosciuszko proper, and the so-called “Rooftop of Australia” does not disappoint in its offerings as climbing the mountain (during good weather) yields a blend of picturesque photo opportunities and panoramas.

As with most other alpine regions the climate plays a large factor in not only enjoyment but also safety, and weather conditions that can swiftly change make for perilous going. As a result, hiking during the summer season is highly recommended, and those embarking on the journey should consider being accompanied by a guide for the duration.

Individuals and small groups are taken on a scenic route up Kosciuszko with K7 to fully appreciate the environment on a family-friendly trail, and thus even children can enjoy the spectacle on offer in this unique part of the Aussie high country.

Location: Alpine Way, Crackenback, Snowy Mountains, NSW

The Snowy Mountains are largely a destination based around adventure and exploring the “great outdoors”, but that doesn't mean visitors to the region aren't entitled to some relaxation and pampering while there.

Long a popular spot for secluded getaways, weddings and other special occasions, the Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa is a resort-come-hideaway that sits nestled on the border of the Kosciuszko National Park with an outlook that includes the panorama of Lake Crackenback itself.

While it's a hub for all sorts of activities nearby (some others of which are detailed further below), the resort also offers a spa complex that allows visitors some indulgent physical treatments all within the midst of these wonderful surrounds.

The Spa & Wellness Centre offers an extensive range of treatments, massages and facials to take part in and when coupled with the general serene environs, it's a dose of pure Aussie relaxation at its finest.

Consisting of five separate treatment rooms – including couples' rooms should you be looking for a dose of romantic pampering – visitors can take part in the likes of deep-tissue massages, hot stone treatments and other assorted methods designed to get the kinks out and alleviate muscular aches and pains. Add to this detailed manicures and pedicures, and almost every kind of pampering procedure is available here.

The serenity of the setting obviously helps in this regard, too – there's no traffic noise or other noisy disruptions that can often occur at bigger or busier resorts to break the relaxing atmosphere.

Staff at the Spa & Wellness Centre know their techniques well while being friendly and courteous yet not overly intrusive, and the quality of the materials and furniture here makes the relaxation experience all the more fulfilling – organic materials and soft, natural features lend an aura of tranquility.

Likewise, heated beds make for a delightful contrast with the typically chilly wind that's blowing just outside, and all of the facilities are in immaculate condition which adds to the sense of overall luxury. The serenity of the setting obviously helps in this regard, too – there's no traffic noise or other noisy disruptions that can often occur at bigger or busier resorts to break the relaxing atmosphere.

Situated in a convenient spot approximately halfway between popular Snowy Mountains ski spots Thredbo and Jindabyne, the Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa's location allows those staying here the benefit of experiencing the best of both locations as well as making it viable to reach if travelling from each spot too.

While it's not the cheapest of spots to indulge, if you're wanting to treat yourself and are staying in any of the ski towns nearby then getting a dose of rejuvenation here is well worth the investment.

Location: Cooma, Snowy Mountains, NSW

While nature is perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Snowy Mountains region, the influence of mankind on the area is also a showcase of some truly amazing feats of what humans are capable of.

The Snowy Mountains Hydro is one of the most ambitious accomplishments in Australian history and the extensive array of tunnels, dams, pipelines and power stations still play a role in the infrastructure of NSW to this day.

As one of the region's most iconic institutions, if you're interested in learning more about the construction, operation, and sheer scale of the Scheme then the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre is an essential stop.

While “educational” attractions may not initially sound too appealing, the sheer scale and scope of the Snowy Mountains Scheme makes for an interesting sightseeing concept, the majority of which is detailed by the excellent Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre located at Cooma.

Featuring an array of detailed displays with lots of information and facts about the workers on the Scheme and their associated achievements, it's a great starting point to do before heading out to the nearby power station proper.

Details of the Scheme are explained on a geographical, historic and technical level via a range of different curated materials – such as photos, artefacts and short films - as well as from the highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff themselves.

It begins with the facility's theatre that shows a feature film that provides a visual and aural background of the Snowy Mountains Scheme from start to finish, and helps in making its complicated layout and construction more easy to understand for the average visitor.

There's also a screen showing a depiction of the current working areas of the hydroelectric system in action, and plenty of other tidbits to read and absorb while you're exploring.

There's even the chance to determine how much electrical power you can generate yourself by riding a bike, and other interactive displays help keep things interesting for younger visitors.

The Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre also has a gift shop with some surprisingly unique souvenirs, as well as a pleasant area to have some excellent coffee.

Given that it's an attraction with free entry and that provides a wholesome experience that lasts around 2 hours if you don't rush, this haven of knowledge is well worth a visit whether you're particularly passionate about Australian history or not.

Location: Banjo Paterson Inn, Snowy Mountains, NSW

Banjo Paterson is a name that's synonymous with the Snowy Mountains as a whole, and it's at the inn of his namesake that you'll find the home of the region's most highly-regarded drop of amber – the Kosciuszko Brewery.

Established back in 2009, this microbrewery is responsible for the on-site production of the wonderful Kosciuszko Pale Ale that's sure to appeal to all fans of a beverage and boasts a light, fruity taste that makes it exceedingly easy to drink.

The beer possesses a taste that's distinctly different from most other popular Australian beers and is both clean and satisfying. If you're heading into Jindabyne and have even a passing interest in sampling regional beer, this is thus an essential stop.

Of course, none of this would matter if the facility it's produced in wasn't so easily accessible or in such a nice location, and the Banjo Paterson Inn – with its aspect overlooking Lake Jindabyne – offers excellent, old-fashioned pub style accommodation with frequent live entertainment to boot.

Part hotel, part pub, part nightclub and part brewery, the Inn is one of the spots in Jindabyne that truly has “atmosphere” - the bar area has an upbeat vibe with friendly staff, and many travellers enjoying themselves throughout the year.

There's something going on here in all seasons, from musical performances to trivia nights, and while it can get rowdy at times it's never overly hostile.

This microbrewery is responsible for the on-site production of the wonderful Kosciuszko Pale Ale that's sure to appeal to all fans of a beverage and boasts a light, fruity taste that makes it exceedingly easy to drink.

Food here is served in generous portions and the quality is generally quite good overall, with a terrific breakfast that's included in the price of your accommodation should you choose to stay here.

The outlook over the lake is the main highlight (other than the attached Kosciuszko Brewery's beer), and as a result if you're travelling to Jindabyne and beyond during non-peak season, be sure to ask for a lakeside room for the best possible views.

The Inn and Brewery's location at the entrance to Jindabyne means it's located not far from the snow fields and thus convenient for skiers looking for an easy place to return too of an evening.

Add to this a range of restaurants nearby and location plays a key role in choosing this as a spot to lay your head.

It's the brewery section and its produce that make this spot more than just a hotel, however, and with the touch of having the copper brew kettles in public view near the entrance there's persistent reminders that simply staying for a few hours and sampling a beverage or three is well worth your while.

If you're staying in Jindabyne then visiting here is a no-brainer, however if you're passing through and wanting to try a refreshing draught of the good stuff then it's well worth the small diversion.

Location: Alpine Way, between Thredbo & Jindabyne, Snowy Mountains, NSW

The Snowy Mountains isn't just a region of Australia for indulging your eyes; there are plenty of opportunities in the area to enjoy some quality food and drink as well, and those who like a drop of the good stuff will have several great opportunities to partake.

Of particular note is the WildBrumby Schnapps Distillery which is located between the popular Snowy Mountains ski resorts of Jindabyne and Thredbo (roughly a 20km drive from Jindabyne) that is an interesting blend of distillery, restaurant and hotel all intermixed.

Set amongst some beautifully manicured gardens and nestled in a location surrounded by majestic, mountainous terrain, it's a unique backdrop to enjoy a sampling or a distinctive meal that feels akin to being somewhere in Austria or Germany more than the Australian high country.

The distillery offers visitors the chance to sample a wide variety of schnapps that is likely to still appeal even to those who aren't big drinkers – they come with a low alcohol content meaning you're able to try a broad range of tastes without becoming overly intoxicated.

The flavour spectrum available here is comprehensive, and you can expect to come across the likes of peach, butterscotch, Pink Lady apple and other standard tastes as well as some more unusual varieties available to sample – including the chilli-infused “Devil's Tongue”.

There's also the chance to purchase gift boxes containing multiple types which can be taken home to enjoy once more or given to friends who enjoy a drink.

Wild Brumby's restaurant is also distinctive and original as far as most Australian offerings go, integrating a heavy German/European influence as the menu contains items such as bacon and egg rolls, sauerkraut, strudel and various other staples of this kind of cuisine mixed in with some Aussie touches.

Visitors to the Distillery will be able to enjoy some great alfresco dining amongst the greenery that features cherry bushes, sunflowers and other colourful touches while the backdrop of the mountains looms in the distance.

There's even a quirky sculpture garden containing some distinctive man-made forms, and all of this alongside a very colonial-era building that features a lot of wood-and-copper décor harking back to the days of yore.

Capping everything off is the generally excellent customer service that is conducted with obvious passion for their establishment and makes every guest feel welcome. Whether for morning tea, lunch or dinner, if you're in the Jindabyne area this unique dining opportunity in wonderful rural surrounds is not to be missed.