Life Of Riley Tours - Jindabyne, New South Wales

Lee Gorman

'The Life of Riley Tour' {5nights/6 days} offered by Lake Jindabyne Hotel is one of the best and memorable excursions I have experienced within Australia.
In mid October, 21 members of Green Point Probus Club {Central Coast} joined with 21 other travellers who were picked up from Newcastle, Belmont, Charmhaven,[ Green Point,] Central Station, Moorebank and Canberra.
Jason, our coach Captain, from Port Stephens Coaches transported us in a luxury coach with the highest professional skill and manner with lashings of humour and understanding of the needs of his, mostly elderly, passengers.
As per the itinerary, we were responsible for day 1 and day 6 eats with most of the other meals/snacks provided.
I could describe the trip in day by day detail but suggest you google the tour and find the itinerary as outlined.
Rather I would speak about those things that made the trip so great..and indeed really GREAT !!
As mentioned, Jason was exceptional.Thank you Jason for a wonderful experience! At the included venues we experienced professional, informative presentations from staff and, particularly, from enthusiastic volunteers. This led to a deep understanding of the magnificence of The Snowy Mountains along with the sacrifices of so many men and women from so many countries, building The Snowy Mountains Scheme, recognised throughout the world as an engineering marvel. Snowy 2.0 presents many challenges and promise for Australia.
Our accommodation at LJH was most comfortable with large rooms, lakeside views and access , having AC, bar refrigerator and kettle with tea and coffee supplies. Daily service of rooms was offered upon request and beds were very comfortable. Our room comprised a king bed and four bunks [ideal for a family or good friends] with a small functional bathroom and separate toilet,
An appetising three course dinner was supplied at 6pm each night with carafes of wine placed on the tables,
Whilst not everyone may have chosen the same dishes elsewhere, the meals, in my opinion, were GREAT.
Next morning from 7am we were tempted with a buffet breakfast! Cereal, fruit, sausages, hash browns, poached eggs , bacon, tomato, and mushrooms.
A variety of breads for toasting, croissants, muffins, juice, tea and coffee and of course efficient friendly staff ensuring the self service experience was enjoyable,
Lunches and morning teas were supplied en route to venues with sandwiches, cake, fruit, juice, tea and coffee.
Such was the atmosphere of the blended group that Jason was almost swamped with helpers to set up and tidy up after refreshments. Some of us even offered to drive the bus but alas.....
At Thredbo we were offered a chair lift ride ascending the mountain some 250m...thankfully the day was "mild".
For my wife and I, it was a new experience as we had only previously visited the area during winter .We could see the beauty of the natural environment whereas without snow cover, man's intrusion was glaring.
I have mentioned LJH re accommodation, food and terrific staff but I must congratulate the hotel for service "over and above" in my view. Breakfast was taken via a flight of steps with dinner two flights from our ground floor rooms. Less able travellers could walk up a graded path then along the footpath to the front entrance of the hotel. Upon request they transported people in a golf cart and on occasion by car.!
As well, there was no single supplement charged and a very late cancellation, from our group because of injury , was no problem
The trip was well organised with everything blending to provide a wonderful experience and no wonder people repeat the very reasonably priced experience.

In conclusion, a GREAT TRIP ...I suggest one not to be missed.

Lee
23/10/2024

Maria Wood

Have just finished this tour it was fantastic, the staff were amazing from.the beginning and so approachable. No problem was too much for them , the accommodation, food, touring was fantastic, one of the best holidays ever .Thank you Lisa for everything.

Ann M

Really good tour. We actually wanted to do it again!. For us it was interesting to see the Snowy Mountains area including dams, learn the history of the area and see towns we never otherwise would have seen. Motel was clean,comfortable and warm at night. It is a country motel.Food was plentiful and covered breakfast lunch dinner so made it easy. Our group was a good group as was the guide and driver. Really pleased to recommend. Do it and enjoy!

Kevin Lawrenson

Great tour for the older gener