Collect your X‑Trail from the airport car hire return/collection area; confirm snow-chain policy and 4WD winter instructions with the provider — chains are strongly recommended for Kosciuszko Rd in winter.
Drive to Avenue Hotel Canberra (central location on Avenue, close to major attractions) and check in; use this time to drop luggage and change into comfortable clothing for the afternoon.
Free national museum and memorial (open 10:00–17:00). Visit the galleries and attend the Last Post Ceremony at 4:45pm — a moving daily commemoration; confirm ceremony times on the Memorial website.
Iconic seat of Australia’s government — tours and public galleries open from ~9:00–17:00; plan 1–1.5 hours for public galleries and a short guided tour if available.
Award-winning restaurant/estate on Canberra’s outskirts focused on local produce. Check opening days — dinners often require booking and may be limited to Fri–Sat.
Drive time ~2h30–3h (without heavy snow). Route: Monaro Hwy via Cooma then Kosciuszko Rd to Jindabyne. In winter, allow extra time for snow chains, variable conditions and possible convoy speeds.
Check into your Jindabyne accommodation, then have lunch at a village cafe (e.g., Birchwood Cafe or The Bacco) to acclimatise; cafes open from ~8:00–9:00.
If you pre-booked ski/snowboard hire, collect your boots and equipment from a Jindabyne rental shop (many open till 5–6pm). Confirm fitting times and evening returns.
Allow 45–60 minutes driving from Jindabyne to Perisher carparks; alternate: park at Bullocks Flat Terminal and take the Skitube (check operating times and book ahead). In winter allow for slow snow driving and possible chain fitting.
Perisher typically runs lifts ~9:00–16:00 (confirm seasonal times). Enjoy the slopes — book lift passes in advance. Spend the day exploring Perisher’s terrain across multiple resorts.
Second day on the snow — enjoy different sectors (Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Guthega). Consider a lesson if you want technique tips (book in advance).
Return to your Canberra hotel, check in and freshen up before evening plans. (This can be the same hotel if available, otherwise a central replacement.)
Allow 30–45 minutes to return the X‑Trail to the car hire depot and complete the check-in/drop-off paperwork; factor in extra time for winter traffic or counter queues.