Story by Tyson
High Altitude Retreat
Adventure in Avonside, Snowy Mountains, NSW, AU
After several hours on the road, as the golden hour neared, we'd finally arrived.
Perched at 1250m above sea level, we were greeted at the gates of Avonside by twelve burly highland cows. Their inquisitive, gentle nature immediately transported us into a relaxed state.
The air was clear, and the rural sounds set the scene for our sundowner drinks on the outdoor setting as the sun crept over Mount Kosciusko and the Main Range.
Set on some-130 acres of land, Alpine Estate Avonside is run by husband & wife team Olivier and Jacquie, who pride themselves on their permaculture practices. Playing host to geese, highland cattle, baby doll sheep, and some-400 chickens. This farm stay offers an intimate taste of living on & off the land - and it's all off-grid!
The spaciously warm cabins offer a comfortable home-away-from-home with the huge bonus of all the outdoor activities the Snowy Monaro region has to offer. Throughout the two-day stay, we climbed Australia's 7th highest peak, picnicked at Porcupine Rocks, lunched at Blue Waterholes, and went on a farm tour of the Avonside property.
At Alpine, Estate Avonside, choose your own adventure or simply chill out and watch the natural wonders pass you by.
Perched at 1250m above sea level, we were greeted at the gates of Avonside by twelve burly highland cows. Their inquisitive, gentle nature immediately transported us into a relaxed state.
The air was clear, and the rural sounds set the scene for our sundowner drinks on the outdoor setting as the sun crept over Mount Kosciusko and the Main Range.
Set on some-130 acres of land, Alpine Estate Avonside is run by husband & wife team Olivier and Jacquie, who pride themselves on their permaculture practices. Playing host to geese, highland cattle, baby doll sheep, and some-400 chickens. This farm stay offers an intimate taste of living on & off the land - and it's all off-grid!
The spaciously warm cabins offer a comfortable home-away-from-home with the huge bonus of all the outdoor activities the Snowy Monaro region has to offer. Throughout the two-day stay, we climbed Australia's 7th highest peak, picnicked at Porcupine Rocks, lunched at Blue Waterholes, and went on a farm tour of the Avonside property.
At Alpine, Estate Avonside, choose your own adventure or simply chill out and watch the natural wonders pass you by.
Things We Did
- Hike
- Sunset
- Swim
Park the car at the end of Porcupine Road, Perisher Valley, and hit the trail for a 3-hour return hike to Porcupine Rocks. Overlooking the Crackenback range, this walk offers some stunning views at sunrise and for minimal effort.
Head outside an hour before sunset. Pack some drinks, snacks, a rug, warm clothes, and head up to the top paddock to take in the sunset over Mount Kosciuszko & The Main Range. Should not be missed if the weather permits.
Do you believe in magic? You will after you witness these views.
From the Charlotte Pass turning circle, trailblaze your way up the Main Range Walk to bag Carruthers Peak and be gobsmacked by some of the most impressive mountain vistas on the Australian Continent.
Carruthers Peak is Australia's 7th highest summit and worthy of the 5-hour return hike via Blue Lake. On the way back to the car, take a dip in Snowy River if it's a belter of a day, mid-summer.
Note: Due to snow cover, access to this hike is not possible from June to October
From the Charlotte Pass turning circle, trailblaze your way up the Main Range Walk to bag Carruthers Peak and be gobsmacked by some of the most impressive mountain vistas on the Australian Continent.
Carruthers Peak is Australia's 7th highest summit and worthy of the 5-hour return hike via Blue Lake. On the way back to the car, take a dip in Snowy River if it's a belter of a day, mid-summer.
Note: Due to snow cover, access to this hike is not possible from June to October
Take the Snowy Mountains Highway home and you'll have the opportunity of getting off the tar (for 30 mins off the highway) along Long Plains Road to Blue Waterhole. Wander down the short track to the turquoise stream. The remoteness of this spot is amazing so be sure to fill the fuel tank and take some lunch to really take in the serenity.
Note: Access roads to the waterhole is closed in winter (June to October long weekends).
Note: Access roads to the waterhole is closed in winter (June to October long weekends).
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Where we stayed
Things we did
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