BLUE MOUNTAINS
THINGS TO DO IN BLUE MOUNTAINS
A natural wonderland of untouched wilderness and charming villages – the Blue Mountains is as much for the adventurous souls as it is for those craving a relaxing weekend getaway.
Where the Australian bush gives way to villages that charm with their heritage shopfronts, when it comes to things to do, the Blue Mountains delights, on and off the beaten track. Bounded by the World Heritage Blue Mountains National Park, people come for the incredible vistas but stay for the villages. Each is a standout for their boutique shopping, art galleries and delectable foodie scene that plays on the very essence of locally grown produce and home-style cooking.
An easy 90-minute drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains is a haven that seems worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The chances of finding a quiet spot away from it all are all but guaranteed with bush trails that lead to secluded watering holes, meandering countryside in the valleys and botanic gardens that change with the seasons.
From Glenbrook to Mount Victoria, the Blue Mountains is packed full of things to do. Whether you're looking for couples only retreats, family-friendly fun, foodie delights or heart-thumping activities, the Blue Mountains delivers in spades. So, pack your overnight bag because you will need more than a day to explore the wonders of this mountainous getaway.
Blue Mountains National Park
On the list of every Sydney bound travel guide, is the World Heritage Blue Mountains National Park. And it's easy to see why, with its stunning wilderness of spectacular bushland and bountiful wildlife. You can access hiking trails and awe-inspiring lookouts from every town. Still, it's Katoomba that draws the biggest crowds with the iconic Three Sisters Lookout and views over Jamison Valley at sunset. But there is more to the national park then hiking trails, with mountaineering and rock climbing being a favourite past time for many.
Gourmet Living in the Blue Mountains
When it comes to things to do in the Blue Mountains, eating out is always high on the agenda. From Blackheath to Leura to Glenbrook, the Blue Mountains is a foodie haven. Throughout the many villages, you will be hard-pressed to find major food chains, but instead, you will discover an array of award-winning restaurants, delectable cafes and fresh produce markets. Bakehouse on Wentworth is a must, as is Leura Garage, but Darley's at Lilianfels is the only hatted restaurant in the Mountains for a fine dining experience. Yet still, The Hydro Majestic is the crown jewel, thanks to its magnificent views.
The Blue Mountains...Where Adventure Awaits
Strap on your hiking boots because the Blue Mountains has walking trails in abundance. Hiking is one of the top things to do in the Blue Mountains, be it a short stroll that meanders to stunning lookouts or heart-thumping overnight hikes. And yes, hiking is a big drawcard, it is the rock climbing, abseiling, caving, canyoning, mountain biking, 4WDriving and horse riding that delights the adventurous souls.
Explore Katoomba
The undisputed base to explore the Blue Mountains National Park, Katoomba is where adventure and exploration begin. Steeped in indigenous and colonial history, Katoomba has a laid-back boho vibe with a lust for the outdoors. A tourism hotspot, discover Scenic World with the famed skyway and railway, and of course the awe-inspiring Three Sisters.
Wander Leura
Edwardian shopfronts and cherry blossom trees, Leura Mall, is a captivating village filled with boutique stores, art galleries, antiques and a selection of cafes and restaurants that would rival Sydney's. One of the top things to do in the Blue Mountains, Leura charms with its grand old homes, intimate cottages, clifftop walks and lustful gardens.
Discover Blackheath
Hauntingly beautiful, Blackheath is a place where adventurers rest their weary legs and creatives perfect their art. Blackheath Village may be small, but it packs a whole lot in with foodie hotspots and homeware and antique stores. There is Govetts Leap Lookout and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and on the other side of the tracks, Megalong Road winds down into the secluded rural community, Megalong Valley.
Stay in the Blue Mountains
Adding to all of this is a line-up of accommodation, which the Blue Mountains has plenty of. Where a cosy fireplace and a whimsical garden is a must, the Mountains are overflowing with couples-only retreats, luxurious getaways, family-friendly resorts and insta-worthy holiday properties that boast sweeping mountain views. And they're all within easy reach to everything that the Blue Mountains has to offer.
National parkland and adventure sports to foodie hotspots and charming villages – there are many things to do in the Blue Mountains.
