One of the country’s most talked about tourist spots has undergone a much-needed makeover that will drastically improve the experience for visitors.
Tucked away in the Snowy Mountains in the south-western alpine region of New South Wales lies the Yarrangobilly caves – a sprawling system of astonishing rock tunnels that formed 440 million years ago.
And among the pristine mountain river setting in the Kosciuszko National Park sits one of the nation’s worst-kept ‘secret spots’: a thermal pool fed by a natural spring that remains 27ºC year-round.
Although it was a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, the area was in dire need of an upgrade, with tired facilities, tricky paths and a lack of accessibility options.
And this week that became a reality, with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service delighting visitors with news of a ‘sleek makeover’.
‘We recently upgraded the beautiful Yarrangobilly thermal pool,’ they announced.
‘Accessibility is a core focus, with a new ramp and seating allowing people with different access needs to use the pool.
‘New walkways connect the new toilet block and changeroom. New shelters have also been constructed around the pool, and existing shelters have been upgraded.
One of the country’s most talked about tourist spots has undergone a much-needed makeover that will drastically improve the experience for visitors
Although it was a must-visit for Aussies and tourists alike, the area was in dire need of an upgrade, with tired facilities, tricky paths and a lack of accessibility options (pictured today after its makeover)
New walkways connect the new toilet block and changeroom. New shelters have also been constructed around the pool, and existing shelters have been upgraded
‘The precinct is open for you to enjoy.’
The news was flooded with praise from regular visitors, especially those who hadn’t been able to enjoy the stunning hideaway due to accessibility constraints.
‘Well done, the upgrades are AMAZING,’ one raved.
‘It took me an age to walk down there two years ago and then I struggled to get out of the pool on the slippery ladders. This will make such a huge difference to those of us with mobility challenges.’
Another added: ‘It’s so wonderful! Was there last week and was very impressed with the new toilets, change room and ramp – and the little shelf seat across the end is also a fabulous practical addition.’
The thermal pool has skyrocketed in popularity over the years, with visitors amazed by the toasty temperature – even when snow is falling around them.
The pool is created from rain water that seeps through porous limestone rock 760m below the ground where it is heated then forced back up through cracks to form a warm spring.
Although the landscape was ravaged by the 2019/2020 horror bushfire season, the shrubbery has recovered with vibrant green eucalyptus leaves climbing their way up charcoal-bitten tree trunks to regenerate.
Just a five hour drive from Sydney, or three from Canberra, it makes for an ideal weekend trip away
The thermal pool has skyrocketed in popularity over the years, with visitors amazed by the toasty temperature – even when snow is falling around them
The pool is created from rain water that seeps through porous limestone rock 760m below the ground where it is heated then forced back up through cracks to form a warm spring
The unusual sight makes for a breathtaking drive through the Snowy Mountains, with the National Park also home a population of wild brumbies.
Just a five hour drive from Sydney, or three from Canberra, it is an ideal weekend trip away and guests can stay on site or at one of several lodges nearby.
Park entry fees apply to access the caves and the pool and cost $4 per vehicle per day.
