4 different Types of Accommodation

Regardless of what activity you do in the mountains, or what time of year you are here, the one thing that doesn't change is that you eventually need to put your head down somewhere to sleep. Here's a non-exhaustive list of accommodation types to get you dreaming.

What more can you want? Whether it's learning a new recipe from someone while cooking in the communal kitchen, streaming movies while you chill after a long day, or an impromptu session with some friends you haven't met yet. When you're looking for a vibe in your accommodation, shared facility style digs without the premium price tag can be where it's all at.

Fen from East Lake Travellers Lodge, East Jindabyne: We know a trip to the Snowies can be pricey and there are things you'd much rather spend your money on- like lift tickets of beer. That's where we come in! East Lake Travellers Lodge is the perfect solution for exploring the mountains on a budget, with lots of added benefits. We are exactly as described- cheap and cheerful. We have all the basics you need like hot showers and comfy beds, but what we lack in fanciness, we make up for with an epic community of guests that create a truly unique atmosphere. Plus, we're dog-friendly. Who doesn't love bringing their best mate along for the fun?!

This is the ultimate in recreational convenience. Depending on where you choose you have the option of ski in/ski out, no daily drive up the mountain or parking hassles, and so much luxury you'll be drowning in the indulgence.

Simone from Marritz Hotel & Salzburg Apartments, Perisher: Ale carte menus from some of the finest chefs, aperitifs beside a roaring fire, concierge services where you're never just another face, and staff that strive to exceed your expectations. For luxury hotels and luxury apartments that facilities available add to the experience. In our hotel we offer indoor heated pool and sauna, sweeping views of the mountains and resort from almost every angle, kids club that give you some adult time, and enclosed balconies to bring the outside in. We're small enough to be an intimate experience but large enough that you can have anonymity if preferred. We thrive on making our guests feel special.

But rather than being a fad, we think it's a clever choice that is here to stay. Ecotourism and sustainable travel are a way we can participate in leaving a smaller footprint on our holidays. The Snowy Mountains has options like eco lodges, off grid farm stays, and glamping. But off grid doesn't have to mean going without the finer things.

Nonie from Freaks of Nature Retreat, Jindabyne: renewable energy and composting treatments have definitely come a long way since the early days. We are 100% off-grid but still provide the things in our luxury and sturdy safari tents that make life good: a private bathroom, BBQ cooking facilities, coffee machine, queen size bed with luxury linen, dishwasher, fire pit with firewood, and more. Freaks of Nature is our home and there are only two tents on our 74 acre/24 hectare property on the Snowy River, 10 minutes outside Jindabyne. We're not a campground or caravan park where you are sharing your space and energy with a multitude of holiday makers. What you get year-round is luxury adult only/ couples retreat in a unique setting.

Free camping. It doesn't exist on the town streets around Lake Jindabyne anymore but there is the National Park. Ok so it's not exactly free but it's close enough to free that we're just going to run with it. Booking fees start at about $6, and there will be the National Parks entry fee. Some campgrounds are free after that, some may have a campsite fee. Some will have designated sites others are a first in best dressed affair, but all NSW National Park campgrounds do require bookings, so jump on the NSW National Park website to check things out. What you get for the budget price will vary and some (but not all) will have BBQ facilities, picnic tables, and toilet facilities so be prepared. You'll need to bring everything else including drinking water and firewood. When it comes to your sleeping arrangements you determine your own hero level: swag, tent, camper, or caravan. Just keep in mind it does snow in the National Parks campgrounds so maybe bring a hot water bottle too.