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outtahere the river. Georgia points out Lake Crackenback's small sandy shore where guests can borrow canoes and kayaks any time to paddle about on the tranquil lake or drop a fishing line. For someone who is used to seeing this landscape blanketed with snow, driving into Thredbo Alpine Village in Kosciuszko National Park in summer gives a fresh perspective and the landscape is no less beautiful. It's green and lush with abundant native flowers and snow gums. The village is open year-round, though at this time of the year it's noticeably much quieter than the winter season. You can ride the Crackenback chairlift, which runs in summer, for a lofty view of the area; ride it with your mountain bike to take advantage of the bike courses and paths back down the mountain; or use it to conquer part of your walk up Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest mountain. To reach the peak at 2,228 metres, it's about a fourhour walk along a moderate track, which you can do without a guide or as part of a guided trek. The weather in the Snowy Mountains can be as fast-changing in summer as it is in winter, so after being outdoors in the rain, sunshine, wind and cold, tumbling down river rapids and exploring the beautiful snow gum forest and grassy alpine meadows, it feels extra-special to enjoy a delicious meal and a few glasses of wine at Cuisine on Lake Crackenback. With executive chef Greg Pieper at the helm, this restaurant was recently awarded an Australian Good Food Guide chef's hat. Floor-to-ceiling windows overhang the lake and it's the best place to feel cosy and take in the spectacular view of the changing night sky over the mountains, bush and lake. The next day, as I drive along the winding Alpine Way, past the beautiful boulder-strewn mountainside, to Jindabyne and towards home, I feel exhilarated and lucky to have experienced such wild fun and adventure in nature – with just the right amount of indulgence and relaxation – in the beautiful Australian Alps. 18 Round-up GET THERE Kosciuszko National Park is a 6.5-hour drive from Melbourne, a four-hour drive from Albury and a five-hour drive from Sydney. STAY Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa has accommodation options that include lakeside apartments and alpine chalets. 1650 Alpine Way, Crackenback 1800 020 524, www.lakecrackenback.com.au EAT & DRINK Cuisine on Lake Crackenback restaurant and bar offers unforgettable fine dining with a menu based on local produce. Bookings are essential. 02 6451 3249 Wildbrumby Schnapps distillery door and cafe serves Bavarian-style food and schnapps made on-site using local fruit. Cnr Wollondibby Road and Alpine Way, near Jindabyne 02 6457 1447, www.wildbrumby.com EXPLORE River Sled Tours are run by Activate at Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa from November to the end of April. Anyone can join in, not just resort guests. 1800 020 524 Segway Eco Tours, also available through Activate, are suitable for people of all ages. 1800 020 524 Guided and self-guided alpine walks www.lakecrackenback.com.au/alpine-guided-walks.html The Spa at Lake Crackenback Resort is where you can relieve tired muscles or indulge in blissful relaxation. Bookings are essential. 02 6451 3000 MORE INFO www.snowymountains.com.au www.thredbo.com.au www.environment.nsw.gov.au/nationalparks/