The Blue Mountains are part of the Great Dividing Range, in a national park only 90 minutes’ drive from the center of Sydney. The World Heritage-listed region is home to quaint villages, waterfalls, walking trails and dozens of lookouts with spectacular views of cliffs and gorges. The area was scouted out gradually through the late 18th and early 19th centuries, but wasn’t properly settled until mining began in the 1860s. The region’s name comes from the color the mountains appear from a distance. This distinctive tinge is caused by the blue light waves that hit dust particles, water vapor and tiny droplets of oil produced by the eucalyptus trees covering the mountains.Hike through these eucalyptus forests on one of many trails scattered throughout the region. These trails cater for all skill levels and vary in length. Many of them skirt past waterfalls, woodlands and ridges. Start at Echo Point for magnificent views of the Jamison Valley and the impressive rock formation of the Three Sisters. Take the Giant Stairway down to the valley floor. Here, at Scenic World, you can take Australia’s steepest cable car ride back up to the top. Wentworth Falls is one of the best-known landmarks in the Blue Mountains. For a view like no other, check out Govetts Leap, which rates among the area’s best places to watch a sunrise or sunset. Explore some of the towns and old homesteads to get a feel for life in the area, or to brush up on your area history. The biggest town is Katoomba, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops and cafés. Some of the smaller towns, like Leura and Blackheath, are also worth a visit. Check out the Leuralla Toy and Railway Museum or the Everglades Historic House and Gardens, among the many other fine old estates.For extreme adventures, go mountain biking, climbing, abseiling or even canyoning. You’ll find a number of companies offering training, equipment and guided tours.The Blue Mountains is a region of staggering natural beauty. Walk on one of many bush trails, explore its charming little towns and enjoy the unbelievable views. The train runs regularly from Sydney’s central station to Katoomba and services all towns and villages in the region. The scenic drive westwards is unforgettable and there is free parking at most places.
Blue Mountains
Travel Guide





Visit Blue Mountains
Where to stay in Blue Mountains

South Bowenfels
You'll enjoy the restaurants and spas in South Bowenfels. You might want to make time for a stop at Lake Lyell or Marrangaroo National Park.

Bowenfels
When in Bowenfels, you can plan a visit to Eskbank House and Museum and Hassans Wall Lookout, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Bowen Mountain
If you're spending some time in Bowen Mountain, Blue Mountains National Park and Devils Hole Creek Reserve are top sights worth seeing.

Hassans Walls
While Hassans Walls may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Hassans Wall Lookout and Zig Zag Railway.

Pottery Estate
Though Pottery Estate may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Eskbank House and Museum and Hassans Wall Lookout.

Sheedys Gully
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Sheedys Gully and surrounding area, you can visit Hassans Wall Lookout and Eskbank House and Museum.

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Reviewed on 12 Feb 2025
Popular places to visit

Katoomba Scenic World
You can take time to visit Katoomba Scenic World during your travels to Sydney. Discover the mountain views and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Jenolan Caves
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Jenolan Caves during your travels in Jenolan. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Three Sisters
Enjoy the mountain views and explore Three Sisters, a lovely green space in Sydney. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Echo Point Lookout
Learn about the local history of Sydney when you spend time at Echo Point Lookout. Discover the mountain views and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Wentworth Falls Waterfall
Enjoy the mountain views and explore Wentworth Falls Waterfall, a lovely green space in Sydney. Wander the picturesque gardens in this quaint area.

Leura Mall
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Leura Mall during your trip to Sydney. Discover the mountain views and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Things to do

Blue Mountains Unique Small-Group Day Adventure with Picnic Lunch

Blue Mountains Sunset & Three Sisters Tour Comfortable Wildlife Experience

Blue Mountains Small-Group Insider Tour from Sydney

Blue Mountains Ultimate One-Day Tour from Sydney
