Finding fantastic breweries and pubs in the Snowy Mountains is easy thanks to the region’s fast-growing craft beer and produce industry. Local makers are driven to create quality brews using ingredients sourced from around the region, including fresh water from the famous Snowy River. Want to taste for yourself? Here’s where you can seek out the best breweries and pubs in our unique region…
Kosciuszko Brewing Company, Jindabyne
Located in Jindabyne adjacent to the Banjo Patterson Inn, this is where you will come across the home of the famous Kosciuszko Pale Ale. Staff are on hand to take you on a tour of the brew house and you may even bump into master brewer, Chuck Hahn, creator of the Hahn and Malt Shovel Breweries.
Jindabyne Brewing Company, Jindabyne
Another Jindabyne favourite, the Jindabyne Brewing Company started as a hobby for the owners but is now a fully-fledged and thriving microbrewery. You’ll find a pilsner, red x, veissbier, golden ale and more available on tap, along with share plates and snacks. The best part is guests get to drink and eat right next to where the beer is made, making this a truely authentic brewery experience, right here in the Snowy Mountains.
Wildbrumby Distillery, Jindabyne
This is an absolute must-do experience when visiting the Snowy Mountains. Located on the Alpine Way, 10 minutes from Jindabyne, Wildbrumby distils its very own schnapps and gin and serves European inspired meals. The grounds around the Distillery are stunning, featuring manicured lawns where children can play and sculptures by local artists. Fruits and botanicals for the schnapps and gin are sourced from around the Snowy Mountains and you’ll also find many local ingredients on the menu.
The Guthega Inn, Guthega
The Guthega ski area is tucked away on the western side of Blue Cow, with the Guthega Inn itself looking directly over the main range so guests can take in uninterrupted views of Mt. Kosciuszko, Mt. Twynam and the Guthega Dam. The Inn is open to the public from 3pm in winter, serving local brews on tap like Jindabyne Brewing’s Island Pilsner along with a rotating range of Bavarian beers, all of which which go perfectly with the small plate menu prepared by chef Torsten Knaack. Reservations are available for dinner or, if you want to make the most of the Inn, book in for an on-snow holiday you’ll never forget.
The Local Pub, Thredbo
The deck at Thredbo’s Local Pub is another incredible spot to sit back, relax, enjoy a beer and take in the action on the slopes. Behind the bar is a range of great brews including Kosciuszko Pale Ale on tap. The meals are a modern take on a pub style feed, think burgers along with hearty curries and filling salads. All this is available within the Thredbo Village, just a stone’s throw from the ski lifts.
Buckley’s Crossing Hotel, Dalgety
A favourite with Dalgety locals and the best of the more out-of-the-way pubs in the Snowy Mountains, Buckley’s Crossing Hotel serves hearty, filling modern Australian meals along with local, Australian and international ales. The Hotel itself is an icon; built in 1889, it still maintains a vintage look and feel while being cosy and welcoming. Buckley’s Crossing Hotel sits alongside the mighty Snowy River, so you can be assured of a true Snowy Mountains experience.
Dalgety Brewing Company, Dalgety
Why not make a day out of your trip to Dalgety and visit the Dalgety Brewing Company? Because it sits on the banks of the Snowy River, it makes perfect sense that the brewery uses water from the iconic river to give its range of craft beers that unique alpine taste. You’ll also find pub style food and snacks, making this the perfect getaway for families and beer lovers alike.
The Royal Hotel, Cooma
Another pub in the Snowy Mountains with plenty of history, the Royal Hotel was built in 1958, less than 20 years after settlement in Cooma. The Georgian style building is in near original condition and now comes under a Permanent Conservation Order. Choose to dine in the lounge in front of the fire or grab counter meal at the bar. Bring the family along and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere!
More Places to Drink and Dine in the Snowy Mountains
The Snowy Mountains is home to plenty more places to enjoy a meal, especially if you feel like a road trip. Check out our food lover’s guide!