Getting out and about is the only way to soak up this stunning part of the world, and there are all kinds of fun ways to do it.
Aboriginal legend has it that three sisters seeking love beyond their tribe were turned to stone. The best views of these iconic rock formations and sweeping valley and escarpment views are from Echo Point lookout in Katoomba, but they can be seen from numerous angles on bushwalks throughout Blue Mountains National Park.
The World-Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park has bushwalks galore, no matter your age or fitness level. Those with prams or wheelchairs will appreciate the paved Fairfax Heritage Walking Track from Blackheath; hikers willing to dedicate 3-4 hours to a walk will be rewarded with stunning views on the Prince Henry Cliff Walk from Katoomba’s Echo Point; or soak up the scenery along the National Pass, a 4.5km loop from Wentworth Falls.
At Centennial Glenn Stables in the Kanimbla Valley, friendly guides take riders of all levels on trail rides through the kangaroo-dotted countryside. Riders over seven years old can choose from a one or two-hour ride, while littlies can be led around on a 15-minute pony ride. The experience just might spark a lifelong love of horses!
Pick from 10 different cave adventures to suit your age and fitness level, and step into the darkness. The guided tours illuminate limestone crystal formations and underground rivers in the world’s oldest cave system. Plan to arrive early – the road is closed to inbound cars between 11.45am and 1.15pm.
Your Discovery Pass ticket will take you down the steepest passenger railway in the world to the Jamison Valley floor, on a 2.4km walk through ancient rainforest, back to the top of the escarpment in the Scenic Cableway, and soaring over the forest canopy in the Scenic Skyway, complete with glass floor. Arrive right on 9am to avoid the crowds.
All that exercise and fresh air will leave you ravenous, but it pays to know the best places in town to eat. For excellent pies, go to the Bakehouse on Wentworth in Leura or Blackheath; some of the best bread in the mountains can be found in Lawson at the Black Cockatoo Bakery, and there are cafes aplenty throughout the Blue Mountains for a hearty breakfast or lunch. For dinner, don’t miss Mesa Barrio or Leura Garage.
