Dalgety

Things to do

The quiet hamlet of Dalgety has a surprising tale to tell. An idyllic spot on the Monaro Plains, surrounded by distant alpine peaks dusted in snow, the town was once in the running to become Australia’s national capital, narrowly losing out to Canberra. Today, it’s the only NSW town on the Snowy River. 

Dip into days gone by on the Dalgety Historic Town and River Walk. An important river crossing on the stock route between Gippsland in Victoria and the Snowy Mountains, a punt once crossed the river before the bridge was built. You can pick up a map of the walk and explore historic buildings, Buckley’s Crossing Hotel built in 1889 and The Dalgety Bridge built in 1888, a feat of engineering in its day.

Dalgety Historic Town and River Walk - Credit: Tourism Snowy Mountains

On the edge of the Snowy Mountains, Dalgety is well positioned for skiers and snowboarders with Perisher and Thredbo about an hour away. In summer, the hiking and mountain biking trails in Kosciuszko National Park are also easily accessible. Enjoy pristine mountain lakes and streams, ideal for fishing, with rainbow trout, Murray cod and golden perch. Picturesque Lake Jindabyne is popular for water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing and wakeboarding.

Snowy Vineyard and Microbrewery, Dalgety

Food, drink & events

Head to the Snowy Vineyard and Microbrewery for a family-friendly meal or relaxing drink. They offer a range of unique cool-climate wines, with the ginger cider a local favourite. You can also enjoy a range of craft beers brewed on site at the adjoining Dalgety Brewing Company, with farm animals in neighbouring paddocks adding that authentic rural feel.

Don’t miss the annual Dalgety Show, a traditional country show held each March, with farm animals, show jumping and plenty of fun activities for the kids. Watch the amazing skills of high-country riders and their magnificent horses at the Dalgety Team Penning.

Lachney Cottage, Dalgety

Getting there & where to stay

The drive from Sydney to Dalgety takes five hours and from Canberra two hours. You can also fly into the Snowy Mountains Airport near Cooma and rent a car for the 40-min drive to Dalgety. For places to stay, enjoy riverside camping and cabins at the Snowy River Holiday Park, the only holiday park on the banks of the Snowy River, while charming Lachney Cottage is set on scenic acreage.