The Blue Mountains are part of the Great Dividing Range, in a national park only 90 minutes’ drive from the centre of Sydney. The World Heritage-listed region is home to quaint villages, waterfalls, walking trails and dozens of lookouts with spectacular views of cliffs and gorges. The area was scouted out gradually through the late 18th and early 19th centuries, but wasn’t properly settled until mining began in the 1860s.
The region’s name comes from the colour the mountains appear from a distance. This distinctive tinge is caused by the blue light waves that hit dust particles, water vapour and tiny droplets of oil produced by the eucalyptus trees covering the mountains.
Hike through these eucalyptus forests on one of many trails scattered throughout the region. These trails cater for all skill levels and vary in length. Many of them skirt past waterfalls, woodlands and ridges. Start at Echo Point for magnificent views of the Jamison Valley and the impressive rock formation of the Three Sisters. Take the Giant Stairway down to the valley floor. Here, at Scenic World, you can take Australia’s steepest cable car ride back up to the top.
Wentworth Falls is one of the best-known landmarks in the Blue Mountains. For a view like no other, check out Govetts Leap, which rates among the area’s best places to watch a sunrise or sunset.
Explore some of the towns and old homesteads to get a feel for life in the area, or to brush up on your area history. The biggest town is Katoomba, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops and cafés. Some of the smaller towns, like Leura and Blackheath, are also worth a visit. Check out the Leuralla Toy and Railway Museum or the Everglades Historic House and Gardens, among the many other fine old estates.
For extreme adventures, go mountain biking, climbing, abseiling or even canyoning. You’ll find a number of companies offering training, equipment and guided tours.
The Blue Mountains is a region of staggering natural beauty. Walk on one of many bush trails, explore its charming little towns and enjoy the unbelievable views. The train runs regularly from Sydney’s central station to Katoomba and services all towns and villages in the region. The scenic drive westwards is unforgettable and there is free parking at most places.
Blue Mountains
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Where to stay in Blue Mountains
Katoomba
The captivating mountain views and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Katoomba. A stop by Katoomba Scenic World or Three Sisters might round out your trip.
Leura
The captivating mountain views and picturesque gardens are top of the list for many visitors to Leura. A stop by Leura Mall or Leura Cascades might round out your trip.
Wentworth Falls
Waterfalls, mountain views, and spas are some highlights of Wentworth Falls. Make a stop by Wentworth Falls Lake or Blue Mountains National Park while you're exploring.
Springwood
You'll enjoy the gardens and waterfront in Springwood. You might want to make time for a stop at Blue Mountains National Park or Sassafras Gully Reserve.
Medlow Bath
Mountain views, restaurants, and historic sites highlight some of the notable features of Medlow Bath. Make a stop by Blue Mountains National Park while you're exploring.
Glenbrook
You'll enjoy the mountain views and parks in Glenbrook. You might want to make time for a stop at Blue Mountains National Park or Explorers Road Reserve.
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Popular places to visit
Katoomba Scenic World
You can take time to visit Katoomba Scenic World during your travels to Sydney. Discover the mountain views and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Jenolan Caves
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Jenolan Caves during your travels in Jenolan. While you're here, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Three Sisters
Enjoy the mountain views and explore Three Sisters, a lovely green space in Sydney. While in this walkable area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Echo Point Lookout
Learn about the local history of Sydney when you take a trip to Echo Point Lookout. Discover the mountain views and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Leura Mall
You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Leura Mall during your trip to Sydney. Discover the mountain views and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens, Mount Tomah
Enjoy the mountain views and explore Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens, Mount Tomah, a lovely green space in Mount Tomah. While in this relaxing area, you can enjoy the bars.