The Blue Mountains, a World Heritage-listed wilderness area just 90 minutes west of Sydney, is one of Australia's most dramatic landscapes. Ancient sandstone cliffs plunge into eucalyptus-filled valleys that shimmer with a distinctive blue haze (caused by oil droplets released by the millions of eucalyptus trees), and charming mountain villages dot the ridgeline.
Getting There
The Blue Mountains begin about 80 kilometres west of Sydney. You can drive (about 90 minutes via the M4 Motorway) or catch the train from Sydney Central to Katoomba (about 2 hours, frequent service). The train is an excellent option as it drops you right in Katoomba, the main town. The Blue Mountains Explorer Bus loops between the key attractions and connects with the train station.
The Three Sisters
The Three Sisters is the Blue Mountains' most iconic landmark - three towering sandstone pillars rising from the Jamison Valley, best viewed from Echo Point lookout in Katoomba. The formations are part of a Dreamtime story of the Gundungurra and Dharug peoples. The lookout is free and accessible, and there's a visitor centre with a cafe. For the best photos, visit early morning or late afternoon when the light is golden.
Scenic World
Scenic World is a must-do attraction that gives you access to the valley floor and canopy:
- Scenic Railway: The world's steepest incline railway, descending 310 metres at a 52-degree incline into the valley floor. It's thrilling and slightly terrifying in the best way.
- Scenic Skyway: A glass-bottom cable car suspended 270 metres above the valley, offering jaw-dropping views of the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls.
- Scenic Cableway: A more gentle cable car descent into the valley.
- Scenic Walkway: A 2.4-kilometre boardwalk through ancient Jurassic-era rainforest on the valley floor.
Tickets cover unlimited rides on all four attractions. Book online for discounts.
Best Bushwalks
- Grand Canyon Track: (Blackheath): A 6.3-kilometre loop through a narrow sandstone canyon with mossy walls, overhangs, and a lush fern-filled floor. One of the most atmospheric walks in Australia. Allow 3-4 hours. Moderate difficulty.
- National Pass: (Wentworth Falls): A spectacular walk that follows a ledge carved into the cliff face behind Wentworth Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the Blue Mountains. Challenging but incredibly rewarding. Allow 3-4 hours for the loop.
- Prince Henry Cliff Walk: Connects several lookouts between Katoomba and Leura along the cliff edge. You can walk sections of it or the whole 6 kilometres.
- Valley of the Waters: (Wentworth Falls): A beautiful walk descending into the valley with multiple waterfall viewpoints. The pool at the base is a popular swimming spot in summer.
- Federal Pass: Follows the valley floor from Scenic World to the base of the Wentworth Falls escarpment. Lush rainforest, creek crossings, and solitude.
Katoomba
Katoomba is the main town and has a great artsy, slightly bohemian character:
- Katoomba Street: The main shopping strip with vintage shops, bookstores, galleries, and cafes.
- The Carrington Hotel: A grand heritage hotel from 1882 with a gorgeous bar perfect for an afternoon drink.
- Katoomba Cinema: A beautiful art deco cinema that still screens films.
Leura
The charming village of Leura, just 3 kilometres east of Katoomba, is prettier and more manicured. The main street (Leura Mall) is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries. Leura Cascades, a short walk from the village, is a lovely picnic spot and starting point for several bushwalks.
Where to Eat
- Solitary: (Leura): Perched on the cliff edge with valley views, Solitary offers modern Australian dining in a stunning location. Long lunches here are memorable. Mains $34-48.
- Silk's Brasserie: (Leura): Fine dining in a heritage cottage. One of the Blue Mountains' best restaurants. Degustation from $120.
- Anonymous Cafe: (Katoomba): Excellent breakfast and lunch in a cosy, quirky space. A local favourite. Dishes $14-24.
- Station Bar & Woodfired Pizza: (Katoomba): Great pizzas and craft beers right by the station. Perfect after a day of bushwalking.
- The Lookout: (Echo Point): Casual dining right at Echo Point with views of the Three Sisters. Handy for a coffee or light meal.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Blue Mountains YHA (Katoomba, excellent location), camping at Euroka Clearing in the national park (wake up surrounded by kangaroos).
- Mid-Range: Echoes Boutique Hotel (stunning cliff-edge location with valley views), The Carrington Hotel (heritage grandeur).
- Luxury: Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa (right at Echo Point), Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges (secluded luxury).
Practical Tips
- Weather: The Blue Mountains are noticeably cooler than Sydney, especially in winter when temperatures can drop below zero and fog fills the valleys. Bring layers, even in summer when evenings are cool. The fog can obscure views, but it also creates a magical atmosphere. - Bushfire Season: Summer brings bushfire risk. Always check conditions with NSW National Parks before bushwalking and carry plenty of water. - Jenolan Caves: About an hour beyond Katoomba, Jenolan Caves is one of the world's oldest cave systems. Guided tours take you through spectacular limestone formations. The Blue Lake at the cave entrance is a surreal shade of turquoise. - Zig Zag Railway: A historic railway near Lithgow that descends a steep mountain escarpment. Check if it's operating during your visit. - Christmas in the Mountains: The Blue Mountains Christmas events are legendary - the Six Foot Track Yulefest celebrations run from June to August, with fireside feasts and winter warmers in heritage hotels.
AUBIS Tip
: The Blue Mountains are perfect as a day trip from Sydney or a weekend getaway. Use AUBIS to plan your itinerary - add Scenic World, your chosen bushwalk, lunch at Solitary, and maybe Jenolan Caves if you're staying overnight. The platform helps you schedule everything so you make the most of your time in the mountains.