All the best places to stay in the Blue Mountains
Charming, cosy and a nature lover's paradise all year round, there's a reason why the Blue Mountains is one of the most popular holiday spots for NSW locals and tourists alike.
Located just 90 minutes from Sydney by car and a scenic two hours by train, winding your way along the Great Western Highway will see you pass a bounty of beautiful towns to stop in and visit.
Whether you're planning to stay for a weekend or a week, here are some of the top places to explore when in the Blue Mountains.
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The area gets its name from the blue haze above the mountains, said to be caused by eucalyptus trees. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Wentworth Falls
If you're keen to check out one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area, Wentworth Falls is well worth a stop. The Charles Darwin Walk (which was walked by the naturalist himself back in 1836) offers great views of the waterfall, along with Jamison Valley. Finish off by heading to Wentworth Falls Lake for a picnic - the kids will love the playground, local sculptures and bike path.
Wentworth Falls has some of the best scenic walks in the area. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Leura
Those who prefer strolling the shops rather than getting their step count up should make a beeline for the quaint stores of Leura. From homemade chocolates to antique gifts and knick-knacks, it's easy to lose hours (and blow some cash) at these speciality shops.
Taking in high tea at the Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms Time is a must, and if you time your visit for October you'll catch the springtime blooms of private estates opening their doors to the public during the Leura Gardens Festival.
Leura is famous for its array of charming artisan shops. Supplied: Destination NSW. Destination NSW
Katoomba
Home to the famous Three Sisters, Katoomba is one of the most popular stops on the Blue Mountain trail but there's much more to see than this iconic rock formation.
Check out the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre with local and national art exhibitions, or give the 'noctourism' trend a go with the Blue Mountains Stargazing Tour
The Three Sisters draws visitors from all around the world. Getty
Mount Tomah
Located 1000 metres above sea level, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah have the distinction of being the highest Botanic Garden in the southern hemisphere.
Not only that, but this tranquil spot is home to thousands of plants, with the ornamental garden and rock garden a great place to wander to your heart's content.
Landscape of Botanic garden in Blue Mountains national park Getty Images/iStockphoto
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Blackheath
Looking for a scenic walk that shows off the finest Blue Mountains National Park has to offer?
Autumn leaves light up Blackheath during the cooler months. Getty Images/iStockphoto
The Cliff Top walking track between Govetts Leap and Evans lookout takes around three hours, with awe-inspiring views and birdsong to keep you motivated.
Visit during the autumn months to really marvel in the spectacular foliage the area is famous for.
