Drive only an hour and a half out of Sydney to reach the Blue Mountains, a sprawling nature park and UNESCO World Heritage site. These mountains within the Great Dividing Range feature scenic gorges, historic towns and walking trails, which will lead you past waterfalls and rock formations.
Start at the park’s lookouts for panoramic views of its eucalyptus-covered gorges. On sunny days, you will be able to see how the mountains got their name. Eucalyptus oil, water vapour and dust bend the sunlight to produce a unique blue hue that covers the mountains like a veil. Check out the view at Govetts Leap, which is spectacular at dusk and dawn.
Head to Echo Point for views of the Three Sisters rock formation and to find the trailhead to one of the park’s most accessible hikes. Climb down the Giant Stairway into the gorge and take Australia’s steepest cable car back up to the cliffs again. Extreme outdoor activities are available as well, including climbing, mountain biking and canyoning.
The park includes many large waterfalls, which you can see along trails or from various lookouts. Check out the stunning Wentworth Falls, which spill over several tiers of cliff before reaching the valley below.
Visit some of the small towns amongst the Blue Mountains. The region was settled in the 1860s, when mining began. Shop and dine in Katoomba, the area’s largest town. Blackheath and Leura feature some attractions as well, including the Everglades Historic House and Gardens and the Leuralla Toy and Railway Museum.
The best way to reach the Blue Mountains is by car. The drive up the mountains is very scenic and you will find plenty of free parking once you arrive. You can also arrive by train, which leaves from Sydney and stops in Katoomba and several other towns in the area. Give yourself plenty of time to explore the variety of views, trails and towns that the Blue Mountains have to offer.
