Katoomba

Only 2 hours west of Sydney, Katoomba is a historic town nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains. Katoomba is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and proximity to the magnificent Blue Mountains National Park.

Katoomba's history dates back to the early 19th century when European explorers first stumbled upon the area. The region's rugged terrain made it a challenging prospect for early settlers, but with the discovery of coal deposits in the late 1800s, Katoomba experienced rapid growth as mining operations flourished. The arrival of the railway in the 1880s further bolstered the town's development, turning it into a popular tourist destination.

One of the biggest draws of Katoomba is its close proximity to the world-famous Blue Mountains National Park. Spanning over 2,500 square kilometres, the park offers a breathtaking panorama of sheer cliffs, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and ancient eucalyptus forests. With Katoomba as your base, you'll have easy access to the park's attractions, including the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, Scenic World's thrilling cable car and railway rides, and countless hiking trails that showcase the park's natural wonders.

Exploring Katoomba

• Echo Point Lookout: Begin your journey at Echo Point Lookout, where you'll be greeted by a jaw-dropping view of the Three Sisters. These towering sandstone formations, steeped in Aboriginal legend, stand proudly against the dramatic backdrop of the Blue Mountains. Watch as the sunlight casts magical hues on the rocks and listen to the echoes bouncing off the cliffs.
• Scenic World: Embark on a thrilling adventure at Scenic World, just a short distance from Katoomba. Here, you can soar above the ancient rainforest on the Scenic Skyway, take a steep descent into the Jamison Valley on the Scenic Railway, or stroll along the elevated Scenic Walkway for a closer look at the lush flora and cascading waterfalls.
• Wentworth Falls: Lace up your hiking boots and head to Wentworth Falls, a picturesque waterfall nestled amidst verdant surroundings. Follow the well-marked trails that lead you to various vantage points, allowing you to marvel at the sheer force and natural beauty of the falls. Don't forget your camera, as the views are truly awe-inspiring.
• Leura Village: Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint village of Leura, located just a short drive from Katoomba. This charming town is famous for its beautifully manicured gardens, boutique stores, and delightful cafes. Indulge in a delicious meal or a cup of tea while soaking in the serene atmosphere.

The Three Sisters

One of my most cherished spots in the Blue Mountains is undeniably Echo Point, home to the renowned landmark known as The Three Sisters. This awe-inspiring wonder of nature is a rock formation that holds immense geological and cultural importance.

The Three Sisters hold significant importance in Aboriginal culture. According to the legend of the local Gundungurra and Darug peoples, the three rock formations represent three sisters who were turned to stone to protect them from harm. Visitors to The Three Sisters can feel the spiritual presence of the Aboriginal people and connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can take The Three Sisters Walk, which starts from Echo Point Lookout and takes you right up to the rock formation. For the hardier walker, the Giant Stairway is a steep staircase that consists of over 800 steps which takes you into the valley right below the Three Sisters. The views along the way make it worth the effort. Once you reach the valley floor, there are several longer hikes you can take, such as the Federal Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley and its cascading waterfalls.

Leura

A few minutes’ drive from Katoomba is the charming village of Leura. Known for its picturesque gardens, quaint streets, and old-world charm, Leura offers a peaceful and idyllic retreat for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Leura traces its roots back to the 19th century when it was originally established as a railway town. The village grew because of the coal mining industry and later transformed into a haven for artists and creatives seeking inspiration in its natural surroundings. Today, Leura has become a beloved tourist destination, showcasing its heritage architecture, stunning gardens, and a thriving arts and crafts scene.

Situated just a stone's throw away from the Blue Mountains National Park, Leura serves as an excellent base for exploring the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Within close reach, you'll discover waterfalls, breathtaking lookouts, and awe-inspiring hiking trails that showcase the sheer beauty of the Blue Mountains.

Exploring Leura

• Leura Mall: Meander through the charming streets of Leura Mall, lined with boutique stores, galleries, and quaint cafes. Browse through unique shops offering handmade crafts, antiques, and local artworks. Indulge in a cup of tea or coffee at one of the charming cafes, where you can savour delicious treats while soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.
• Leura Cascades: Embark on a nature-filled adventure at Leura Cascades, a breathtaking waterfall nestled amidst lush rainforest. Follow the well-maintained trails that wind through the forest, leading to various lookout points that offer mesmerizing views of the cascades. Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Mountains.
• Everglades Historic House and Gardens: Step back in time at the Everglades Historic House and Gardens, a delightful heritage property surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens. Designed in the 1930s, this Art Deco-style house offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of the past. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, adorned with vibrant blooms, terraced lawns, and tranquil water features.
• Leura Garden Festival: If you can visit in October, don't miss the annual Leura Garden Festival. Celebrating the region's stunning gardens, this festival showcases a variety of private gardens in full bloom. Take a self-guided tour through the colourful landscapes, marvelling at the unique flora and gathering inspiration for your own garden.

Mount Solitary

Mount Solitary, rising 950 meters above sea level, is one of the most prominent peaks in the Blue Mountains and can be seen from many vantage points around the Katoomba region.

For those who are physically fit and up for a challenge, the six-hour trek to the summit takes you through lush rainforest and offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains, along with the opportunity to spot various wildlife such as wallabies and kangaroos.

For those a seeking shorter hike, I suggest the trail leading to The Ruined Castle. It's approximately a 4km walk from the Golden Staircase on Narrow Neck. Upon descending the stairs, the path meanders through eucalyptus forests until reaching the remarkable rock formation known as The Ruined Castle. Scaling to the top of these rocks rewards hikers with magnificent vistas of Mount Solitary valley and the neighboring mountains.

Narrow Neck

Narrow Neck is a narrow plateau that begins in Katoomba and extends into the Blue Mountains National Park, providing panoramic views of the Jamison and Megalong Valleys

For those seeking adventure, the Narrow Neck Trail is a 14-kilometer hike that offers breathtaking views of both the Jamison and Megalong Valleys. Additionally, Narrow Neck provides access to the Golden Staircase, which leads to the Federal Pass. This pass provides the option to head back towards Katoomba or to continue on towards Mount Solitary via the Ruined Castle.

Wentworth Falls

Wentworth Falls is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the Blue Mountains, with a drop of 187 meters. Located just a short drive from Katoomba, this natural wonder is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region. The waterfall can be viewed from several lookout points, including the Wentworth Falls Lookout and the Princes Rock Lookout, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

In addition to the waterfall, the area boasts several walking trails that cater to hikers of all levels. One of my favourite places to explore is the Darwin Walk which follows Jamison Creek to the falls. The picturesque creek has many small cascades and runs through the surrounding forest.

If you're feeling adventurous, Fletchers Lookout is a must-visit, though it's not for the faint-hearted as it gives you the feeling of being perched on the edge of a precipice looking over the valley below.

Megalong Valley

Located just to the west of the Blue Mountains, the Megalong Valley is a picturesque and peaceful destination that's perfect for a relaxing getaway. This stunning valley is surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs, lush greenery, and scenic vistas that are sure to take your breath away.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the Megalong Valley, including bushwalking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. You can explore the valley on foot by taking one of the many walking trails that wind through the area.

Feeling energetic and in need of refreshment? If you're up for a challenge, I can recommend embarking on the invigorating 15km hike from Katoomba into the valley. Start by descending Nellies Glen and follow the scenic Six Foot Track as it winds through the valley floor, ultimately leading you to Dryridge Estate Winery. This demanding journey is incredibly rewarding, treating you to panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding escarpment. And don't forget the incentive waiting for you at the end - fine local wines. Final tip: Arrange a cab ride back to Katoomba for a convenient return.

Grose Valley

The Grose Valley is an absolute gem in the heart of the Blue Mountains, a must-visit for any nature lover or hiker. With a variety of walking tracks, it provides ample opportunities to explore the valley's natural beauty. The Grand Canyon Track is a 6-kilometer journey through lush rainforest and past several waterfalls, including the stunning Bridal Veil Falls, while the challenging 12-kilometer Rodriguez Pass trail takes you up to the cliff top for some incredible views, with Evans Lookout being a great spot for panoramic views of the valley.

Besides the walks, the Grose Valley also boasts several waterfalls, with Govetts Leap being one of the most popular. Pulpit Rock Lookout is another popular spot for breathtaking views of the valley and its escarpment.

My family and I had the pleasure of completing the Evans Lookout to Victoria Falls walk, a two-day hike through the Grose Valley that offers stunning views of the valley and several waterfalls along the way. Starting at Evans Lookout, the walk takes you through lush rainforest, rocky trails, and scenic lookouts. It follows the Grose River until it meets Victoria Creek, where the trail ends at the beautiful Victoria Falls.

For hikers looking to spend more time in the valley, there are several camping areas, including Acacia Flat, Blue Gum Forest, and Burramoko Ridge. These camping areas provide a great base for hikers to explore the valley and nearby trails, with Acacia Flat being a popular camping spot for hikers doing the Evans Lookout to Victoria Falls walk.

Hanging Rock

Hanging Rock is a unique rock formation located in the Blue Mountains that attracts visitors from all over the world. The rock juts out from the escarpment and offers breathtaking views of the valley below. It's a popular spot for adventurers and adrenaline junkies, as it's one of the most popular spots for base jumping in Australia.

If you're not up for the thrill of base jumping, you can still enjoy the stunning views from the Hanging Rock Lookout. The lookout is perched on the edge of the escarpment and offers panoramic views of the Grose Valley, with the river below snaking through the valley floor.

Hanging Rock is a short drive from the nearby town of Blackheath. Just north of the town take a right onto Ridgwell Road which turns into Burramoko Trail. The rock formation is in the Grose Valley and can be accessed via a hiking trail from the car park. It's important to note that the trail to Hanging Rock can be challenging for some visitors, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water. Be careful near the edge!

Mount Wilson

I'm always on the lookout for new and inspiring locations to capture the natural beauty the surrounds us. Mount Wilsons falls into this category as stunning gardens, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant colours offer endless possibilities for the photographer.

Upon arriving in Mount Wilson, I was struck by the beauty of the gardens. I spent hours exploring the different gardens, admiring the unique plant species of the area. From the vibrant colours of the autumn foliage to the delicate blooms of the flowers, the gardens offered endless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature with my camera.

If you're planning a trip to Mount Wilson, autumn is the best time to visit. The crisp, cool air and vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange that adorn the trees make for a magical experience. As the leaves change colours, the mountain transforms into a wonderland of natural beauty, perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring.

The easiest way to get to Mount Wilson from Sydney is by car. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, and it's a beautiful scenic drive through the Blue Mountains region. You can also take a train from Sydney to Mount Victoria, which is the nearest train station to Mount Wilson. From there, you can either take a taxi or a bus to Mount Wilson, which is about a 20-minute drive away.