WEEKENDER'S GUIDE TO THE BLUE MOUNTAINS, NSW
Swathes of blue, clouds so low you can practically touch them, and dark, dense green bush as far as the eye can see — yeah, that’s the Blue Mountains in New South Wales.
Add in some incredibly scenic hikes, and the crispest of mountain air, the Blue Mountains are the perfect weekend getaway destination. They’re also one of those places that’s beautiful year round — come in summer for refreshing walks amongst waterfalls; or winter for cosy nights ‘round the fireplace and snowy mornings.
Here's where to eat, drink, stay and play in the Blue Mountains and Greater Blue Mountains area.
Wentworth Falls
EAT
It might not be known as a “foodie” destination, but there’s plenty of places worth eating at in the Blue Mountains.
Check out Red Door in Leura and Anonymous in Blackheath for cafe brunches, and Mountain High Pies for some of THE best pies you will ever eat.
Victory Theatre Antique Centre and Savoy in Katoomba have you covered for uncomplicated pub grub whilst Thai Silk in Blackheath and Sanwiye Korean cafe are both awesome for international cuisine.
Lastly, hit up This Little Piggy Deli for locally made cheese for the journey home.
Mountain High Pies
DRINK
If you’re after wine tasting, head to Megalong Valley, where you'll find Dryridge Estate and Megalong Creek Estate wineries, both of which have stunning vineyard views.
Megalong Valley Tearooms is a great pit-stop for non-alcoholic tipples.
The Hydro Majestic Hotel is also great if you’re feelin’ fancy.
Vulcan State Forest
STAY
From tiny homes to luxe hotels, there's something for everyone when it comes to accommodation.
The suburbs of Katoomba, Leura and Blackheath are all about 15 minutes’ drive from each other, so basing yourself in any of these will put you in the heart of most of the lookouts and walking tracks.
Most of the Airbnb properties also have indoor fireplaces and/or bathtubs, which are perfect for create ultimate cosy vibes…
Blue Lake, Jenolan Caves
PLAY
Regardless of your fitness level, there are all types of nature-based activities in the mountains.
Let’s start with lookouts and walking tracks:
Katoomba:
Three Sisters: one of the most popular lookouts, and the best. Make sure to read up on the folklore surrounding this lookout.
Cahill's lookout
Katoomba Falls
Blackheath:
Pulpit Rock: really steep stairs leading down to the viewing platform below which makes for a sick view.
Grand Canyon walking track: lush rainforest vibes, 6km loop trail.
Govett's Leap
Evans lookout
Leura:
Elysian Rock: super secluded, incredible views, off-the-beaten-track vibes.
Sublime Point: popular but magical during golden hour.
Gordon Falls
Wentworth:
National Pass walk: do the whole 4.5km track if you can! Incredible views.
Wentworth Falls: walk under a waterfall
Lincoln’s Rock: ultimate edge-of-a-cliff vibes. Must-see viewpoint.
Lincoln’s Rock
Greater Blue Mountains area:
Megalong Valley: a 20min drive from Blackheath, stop in at the aforementioned tearooms or vineyards. You can also visit the beautiful Icelandic horses at Megalong Icelandics horse ranch.
If you have a 4WD, the Wolgan and Jamison Valleys have even more rugged mountain scapes and walking tracks.
Jenolan Caves: definitely squeeze in a half day trip to the caves if you can. Amazing natural rock formations, as well as a stunning blue lake.
Vulcan State Forest: 30mins drive from Oberon, find tall pine trees and a secluded forest. Other-worldly when it’s snowing.
Mayfield Garden: 65 hectares of beautiful gardens, located in Oberon. $22 entry free per adult.
Stop in at Bilpin on your way in/out for some cider tasting and fresh apple pies at Hillbilly Cider or Bilpin Cider.
Megalong Valley Icelandics