Snowy Mountains visitors can now stay at newly refurbished former National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) staff cottages with sprawling views across Lake Jindabyne from Creel Bay above Jindabyne.
NPWS Southern Ranges Branch Director, Mick Pettitt, said the two three-bedroom cottages have had a makeover under the NPWS Short Stay Accommodation Program so Kosciuszko National Park visitors can stay longer all year round to explore the ski fields, walking tracks, fishing in Lake Jindabyne and the Thredbo Valley mountain bike track or just the magnificent scenery in the region.
Mr Pettitt said: "These cottages were once used for staff accommodation at what was then known as Waste Point but were identified as ideal for visitors because they're so close to the many great attractions of the park.
"They're about half an hour from Perisher or Thredbo in winter and right next to the Creel Bay boat ramp for summer anglers, hikers and mountain bike riders. Jindabyne is 15 minutes away. Thredbo Valley Mountain Bike Track is just 11 minutes' drive away and can be used in either direction by walkers and mountain bikers.
"The cottages have been completely refurbished inside including double glazing, heating, cooling, new insulation, new bathrooms and kitchens. Decks and outdoor areas have been extended so visitors can make the most of the breathtaking scenery.
"They have new roofs, high quality fittings and furnishings throughout while maintaining the features and heritage character and features of the cottages."
A stay at the cottages will cost from $265 a night, with revenue re-invested in the cottages' maintenance and in the National Park.
The accommodation is ideal for families and groups, with both cottages close to Creel Lodge, which has been operating as successful NPWS tourist accommodation for a number of years.
Another example of similar re-purposing of former NPWS buildings is the very popular Numbananga Lodge at Smiggin Holes.
The cottages will be open for bookings from 23 September 2020 on the NPWS website: Creel Bay cottages.
Holiday makers are urged to remain COVID-safe when hitting the road this school holidays with NSW tourism hotspots bracing for an influx of visitors over the coming weeks. For the latest updates from NPWS please visit NPWS COVID-19 update.
