posted on June 17, 2024
Located in the stunning Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales, Perisher lies within Kosciuszko National Park, making it a spectacular location for snow sports, hiking, and mountain biking trails. With rugged landscapes, alpine villages, and ski resorts catering to all levels and abilities, the destination draws locals and international tourists in the winter months.
But make no mistake, even during warmer weather, Perisher is a must-see destination, known for its panoramic views, natural beauty, and mountain ranges.
In this helpful guide, we’re covering everything you need to know about how to get from Sydney to Perisher no matter the time of year, as well as what to know for when you arrive.
5 ways to get to Perisher from Sydney
When it comes to making the journey from Sydney to Perisher, you’ll find a range of options to suit your needs. From a self-drive that allows you to take in the scenery and make detours of your choosing to private transfers and bus trips, here are your top options when it comes to making the journey.
Drive from Sydney to Perisher
The drive from Sydney to Perisher delivers as far as comfort, convenience, sightseeing and scenic beauty are concerned. As you near the Snowy Mountains, you can expect hairpin turns, dramatic views, and steep, narrow roads. A small, compact car can certainly manage this drive as well as a luxury SUV, but make sure you are prepared if travelling during the winter months by carrying snow chains and following all signage carefully.
- Total distance: 492 kilometres
- Total driving time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Suggested route:
- From Sydney, take the M1 from Macquarie Street.
- Follow the M5 and Remembrance Driveway to Monaro Hwy/A23 in Symonston.
- Continue on Monaro Highway
- Then, continue onto Sharp Street/Snowy Mountains Hwy. You’ll continue onto Kosciuszko Road and Jindabyne Road, then stay on Kosciuszko Road before arriving at your destination.
- Best for: Passing through the towns of Cooma, Berridale, and Jindabyne, this drive is incredibly scenic, with plenty of detours that can be made for delicious food, panoramic views, and sightseeing. It makes it well-suited for couples, solo travellers, and families who have the time to make detours and experience the beauty of the region at their own pace.
Take a bus from Sydney to Perisher
If you’re looking for public transport options to Perisher, the bus is your best bet. While it won’t offer the same experience as driving, Greyhound Australia runs a service from Sydney Central Station to Skitube Bullocks Flat, where you can then get the Perisher Skitube to Perisher Valley Terminal.
If you are staying in Jindabyne, Cooma or Tyrolean Village, the Snowy Mountains Bus Service runs consistently during the Winter months between these areas and Perisher.
- Cost: One way ticket from Sydney to Perisher starting at $95
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours 55 minutes
- Route:
- Boarding at Sydney
- Sydney Domestic Airport (+20 minutes from Sydney)
- Canberra (+4 hours from Sydney)
- Canberra Airport (+4 hours 15 minutes from Sydney)
- Cooma (+5 hours 25 minutes from Sydney)
- Berridale (+5 hours 55 minutes from Sydney)
- Jindabyne (+6 hours 30 minutes)
- Bullocks flat Skitube (+6 hours 55 minutes from Sydney)
- Schedule: Services run from 6:30am to 5:30pm.
- Tickets: With more people requesting bus services during the winter months, we recommend booking your ticket online ahead of time. Greyhound Australia also offers early-bird ticketing options with a significant discount, making it worthwhile to book ahead.
- Best for: Solo travellers and adventurers looking for a budget-friendly option. While you’ll be able to bring your own skis and snowboard for free, note that this is limited to one pair of skis or one snowboard per passenger.
Fly to Perisher
Perisher doesn’t have its own airport, but you can fly from Sydney to the Cooma-Snowy Mountains Airport, which is approximately 16 kilometres from Jindabyne. From there, you can either hire a car or take a shuttle bus to Perisher.
While flying might be the quickest way to reach your destination, flights are limited. Qantas does offer seasonal flights from Sydney to Cooma during the winter season when skiing is popular, however the availability of these flights is currently limited and not something that is offered year-round. Your best bet is to check online ahead of departure and weigh up your options. An alternative option would be to fly to Canberra and then make the drive to Perisher and the Snowy Mountains.
- Cost: The cost for a flight from Sydney to Snowy Mountains can range from $150 to $400 for a one-way ticket, with prices generally expected to increase significantly during peak season in the winter.
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Schedule: Seasonal schedule is subject to limited availability
- Best for: Travellers or those doing business in the Snowy Mountains who have limited time to spare on travel.
Private transfer to Perisher from Sydney
Regardless of the season, you can book a private shuttle service or transfer from Sydney to Perisher year-round. These can be booked in advance and typically run multiple times a day to ensure convenience for travellers looking to make the journey.
- Cost: While rates vary depending on the private transfer company and services booked, you can typically expect to pay $1,675 for a private transfer from Sydney to Perisher with 1-4 passengers. Any additional passengers will cost $100 per head.
- Services: You’ll find a range of private transfer services available, each of which offers different costs and varied schedules. Consider the options below:
- Snow Alliance with private charters from Sydney, Canberra, Snowy Mountains Airport, Jindabyne, Perisher, and Thredbo.
- Snowlink Shuttle
- Snowy Mountains Shuttles
- Snow Connect
Once you’ve made it to the Snowy Mountains: Take the Perisher Ski Tube
For those looking for the quickest and easiest option to get to Perisher Ski Resort once you’ve made it to the Snowy Mountains, the Skitube is your best option.
As Australia’s only alpine railway, it’s quick, reliable, and takes just 10 minutes to reach its destination from Bullocks Flat. Once at Perisher Valley, you’ll be able to access Front Valley and Smiggin Holes via a free shuttle bus service or swap trains to continue onto Blue Cow.
If you’re taking the Ski Tube, the best way to get to Bullocks Flat is by driving (or shuttle bus).
- Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and age of passengers, but typically start from $50 which includes free day and overnight parking at Bullocks Flat Skitube Terminal.
- Duration: 10 minutes
- Route:
- Departs from Bullocks Flat Terminal (a 20-minute drive from Jindabyne)
- Schedule: The service runs consistently throughout the week from 7am to 10:40am. Last services from Perisher Valley to Bullocks flat depart at 5:30pm. However, during the winter ski season, you can expect services running from 5:30am through to 10pm on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday, and 8pm Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at Bullocks Flat Terminal for the Perisher Valley Skitube.
- Best for: Solo travellers, families, and adventurers looking for a budget-friendly, efficient travel option to Perisher.
The perfect Sydney to Perisher road trip itinerary
Looking to enjoy the Perisher ski trip of a lifetime? With this drive itinerary, you’ll soak up the incredible mountain scenery of Australia’s alpine region as you make your way from Sydney to the snow.
- Total distance: 497 kilometres
- Total driving time: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Route:
- Sydney to Canberra: 286 kilometres, 3 hours 5 minutes
- Canberra to Cooma: 117 kilometres, 1 hour 22 minutes
- Cooma to Jindabyne: 62.2 kilometres, 45 minutes
- Jindabyne to Perisher: 32.6 kilometres, 27 minutes
- Top stops: Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, Cooma Rotary Markets, Birchwood Cafe, Banjo Paterson Inn, Wildbrumby Schnapps’ Distillery & Cafe, Crackenback Valley, Charlotte’s Pass, and Eagles Nest.
Best vehicle for the drive
You can expect smooth, well-maintained roads for much of the journey from Sydney to Perisher, making for a comfortable driving experience no matter what vehicle you choose. If you’re visiting during the winter months of June to October, all 2WD vehicles must carry snow chains to be granted entry to Kosciuszko National Park. While not mandatory, 4WD vehicles are also encouraged to carry snow chains.
Driving conditions
In some parts of Perisher, you’ll find snow poles lining the road that are painted orange. In case of white-out conditions, these allow drivers to get their bearings. If you’re unable to see the edge of your car or the next snow pole, we advise stopping your vehicle in a safe location off the road, putting your hazard lights on, and waiting for a break in the weather.
Accessibility and park fees
With Perisher situated within Kosciuszko National Park, all vehicles need to pay a fee to enter the park. We recommend purchasing your pass ahead of departure at the NPNSW website, particularly if you want an annual pass that allows for entry to all national parks in NSW for the year as this can’t be purchased at the park entry gates. Single entry will see you pay $22.
Once you arrive: A complete guide to Perisher
With its incredible ski resorts, snow runs, and activities that cater to families and travellers of all ages and abilities, Perisher has become a go-to destination for those looking to take in the natural beauty of Australia’s Alpine region (known for the Snowy Mountains Scheme) and snow season.
Home to Australia’s highest peaks in Kosciuszko National Park, you can also expect to encounter undulating valleys and plains, glacial lakes, limestone caves, and enchanting woodlands at every turn.
Top activities and things to do in Perisher
- Scenic chairlift rides: Take a bird’s eye view of the region with a scenic chairlift ride. For photographers, it offers a great opportunity for getting a panoramic shot of the area.
- Tobogganing: A great activity for kids and families, you’ll find tobogganing at various locations in Perisher where you can make your way down safe and exciting slopes.
- Snowshoeing: Take in the natural beauty of Perisher and the wider Snowy Mountain region by exploring on foot. With snowshoes, you can take a guided tour of the region and soak up the alpine scenery.
- Snow Tubing: For those new to the snow, snow tubing doesn’t require any experience. At Perisher’s Tube Town, you’ll find tubing lanes designed specifically for people of all abilities, while a magic carpet is there to take you back to the top effortlessly.
- Snowboarding: At Perisher Valley, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for snowboarding. With multiple terrain parks that include PlayStation Terrain Park and Piper Park, you’ll find jumps, rails, and boxes to hone your freestyle skill.
Where to eat in the Snowy Mountains
- Wildbrumby Cafe: Located on Wollondibby Road and the Alpine Way, this incredible cafe is perched atop the mountains with unbeatable views of the Snowy Mountains. With friendly staff and a menu that offers a variety of beers, cocktails, hot beverages, and even better food, you’ll be treated to delicious meals while enjoying the view.
- Crackenback Farm Restaurant: With a relaxed ambience and friendly staff, you can enjoy a delightful meal while making your way along the Alpine Way.
- Thredbo Burger Bar: It may be a burger bar, but rest assured that they still offer plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. With delicious burgers, ribs, and delightful sides, you’ll be enchanted by the friendly service and great location.
- Bernti’s Mountain Inn: Bar, Grill & Brasserie: Located in Thredbo Village that’s just a short drive from Perisher, this restaurant is known for its incredible food and service. With happy hour drinks and outstanding meals that include a 250 gram ribeye and spicy margaritas, you’ll be in for a treat!
Where to stay in Perisher
Once in Perisher, you’ll find a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. The main types are hotels and lodges, with Perisher Valley Hotel and the Man from Snowy River Hotel located in the heart of Perisher Valley, with easy access to ski lifts. Corroboree Lodge and Snowy Gums Chalet provide self-contained apartments with kitchen facilities, while budget accommodation can be found at Matterhorn Lodge and Boonoona Ski Lodge.
- Marritz Hotel: With its classic European style, this hotel is located in the heart of Perisher Valley and boasts fireplaces, a relaxing sauna, a heated pool, a gourmet restaurant, and an Apres Ski Bar where you can revel pre- or post-ski.
- Smiggins Hotel & Chalet Apartments: With easy access to Perisher Resort, Smiggins Hotel and Chalet Apartments provide comfortable rooms and an incredible kids club to suit families and solo travellers.
- Perisher Valley Hotel: As one of the more popular options for those visiting Perisher, this hotel offers an incredible experience for guests that doesn’t just include spacious rooms with breathtaking views but also extends to dining options, a sauna, and a kids club.
- The Man From Snowy River Hotel: This iconic hotel in Perisher is located right in the heart of Perisher Resort and is just a few hundred metres from the Village 8 Chairlift, granting easy access to the snow runs.
Top things to do for families in Perisher
- Thredbo Valley Horse Riding: Just a short drive from Perisher, you’ll find Thredbo with its stunning scenery. One of the best ways to explore the diverse landscape is on horseback, and Thredbo Valley offers horse riding for people of all ages and abilities.
- Perisher’s Skitube: With exceptional facilities for families and kids, the alpine railway known as the Skitube is a particularly popular experience for kids and proves to be great fun!
- Tobogganing at Perisher Ski Resort: Known for its family fun, Perisher offers a range of snow lessons for kids of all ages at Perisher Snowsports School. From kid’s group lessons to adult lessons and family private lessons, pack your ski gear and you’ll be able to learn skiing and snowboarding skills. You can also enjoy tobogganing, which is an enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Lake Jindabyne: At Lake Jindabyne, you can try your hand at a range of activities that include fishing, kayaking, cycling, and fishing. There’s also a playground, making it a great spot for a picnic with the kids.
- Yarrangobilly Caves: Take in the impressive limestone caves with a guided tour as you venture through scenic walking tracks and take a dip in the incredible thermal pool.
Top things to do for couples
- Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery: Located between Jindabyne and Thredbo, be sure to visit this distillery for a tour where you can sample a range of award-winning schnapps boasting interesting flavours like pear, apple, and butterscotch.
- Lake Crackenback Resort: You’ll be able to enjoy mountain biking, scenic hikes such as the Bullocks Hut Walk, wellness activities like a massage and facial at the wellness centre, or indoor swimming.
- White Spider restaurant: As Perisher’s top dining spot, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the mountains at this establishment that first welcomed guests in 1971. With a dynamic atmosphere, it makes for an unforgettable evening in the Perisher Valley.
- Tumbarumba Vineyards: Located in the Snowy Mountains, Tumbarumba is known for its cool-climate wines. Visit incredible wineries including the family-owned Courabyra Wines for a cellar-door tasting and delightful meals.
- Khancoban: With plenty of local events and markets throughout the year, Khancoban is a great spot for those looking to soak up the vibrant community atmosphere. There’s also the Khancoban Country Club for those wanting to play golf and plenty of scenic drives.
Top activities for solo travellers
- Guthega to Charlotte Pass walk: Located in Kosciuszko National Park, Guthega is the perfect base for those who want to explore more hikes in the area. Guthega to Charlotte Pass is a must, with the nine kilometre walking track winding through the alpine region and Snowy Mountains.
- Scammells Lookout: Situated on the Alpine Way, you’ll pass Scammells Lookout before arriving at Perisher. Be sure to stop and visit this incredible lookout spot, which offers sweeping views of the Snowy Mountains and Mount Kosciuszko.
- Kosciuszko National Park: You don’t just have to ski to enjoy the beauty of Kosciuszko National Park. You’ll find incredible mountain biking tracks, including Thredbo Valley Track and Thredbo Mountain Bike Park. There’s also the iconic Blue Lake Walk and Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk for those who want an incredible hike.
Frequently asked questions about getting to Perisher from Sydney
What is the cheapest way to get from Sydney to Perisher Valley?
The cheapest way to get from Sydney to Perisher involves taking public transport. While it does add a significant amount of time to your travel, a train from Sydney to Canberra is your cheapest option. Then, you’ll need to get a bus from Canberra to Perisher Valley via Jindabyne. All up, this should cost around $65 to $135, depending on the time of season and availability.
What is the fastest way to get from Sydney to Perisher?
While there isn’t an airport at Perisher, the fastest way to get there from Sydney involves taking a flight from Sydney to the Snowy Mountains Airport in Cooma. With a duration of 1 hour flight time, you can then either rent a car, private transfer or catch a bus from Cooma to Perisher Valley, which takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours.
Keep in mind that when you take into account airport processes and getting to the airport in the first place, your best bet might be to drive.
How do I travel from Sydney to Perisher without a car?
Even if you don’t have a car, you can still make it to Perisher. Consider public transport options that include the train and bus, or a private shuttle. Or, why not rent a car on Turo in Sydney?
Is there a train to Perisher?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a direct train from Sydney to Perisher. However, you can get a train from Sydney’s Central Station to Canberra, at which point you can catch a bus from Canberra to Perisher Valley. Alternatively, after arriving at Canberra and getting a bus to Bullocks Flat, you can then get the Skitube from Bullocks Flat directly to Perisher Valley.
When is the best time to visit Perisher?
Perisher is open year-round and has several activities to suit each of the seasons. While winter is the most popular time to visit and brings large crowds to the region due to the snowfall and opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, summer is great for those looking to take up hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
Final tips for your Sydney to Perisher journey
For snow sports enthusiasts, adventurers, nature lovers, and those simply wanting to experience the atmosphere of Australia’s iconic Alpine region, the journey from Sydney to Perisher promises unbeatable scenery and diverse landscapes.
While you’ll find a range of transport options available, options can be limited outside of the ski season. And with plenty of detours to be made along the way and sights to see, it’s worth taking the time to explore at your own pace. With Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host. Find your drive on Turo today.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
