Australia – part of the Oceania continent, has long boasted some of the best natural wonders and some of the (deadliest and) cutest animals known to humankind. One of Australia’s abundantly stunning locations is the Blue Mountains, nestled just a stone’s throw away from the beautifully busy city of Sydney, Australia.
A paradise waiting to be explored, the majestic Blue Mountains is an idyllic retreat for adventure seekers and family travellers alike. As one would expect, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region offers plenty of natural beauty and activities that will leave you (literally) breathless and yearning for more.
1. Conquer the Three Sisters
A visit to the Blue Mountains would be incomplete and moot without experiencing the beauty of the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. Tales of old say that the towering sandstone pillars were once three sisters who were turned to stone to protect them from harm.
From Echo Point Lookout, you can witness an unobstructed view of one of Australian nature’s finest. For those who want to clock in some miles, go on a bush walk along well-marked trails, which will lead you to an up-close encounter with these geological wonders.
2. Experience thrilling adventures with a view
For adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts, the Blue Mountains offer a wide range of heart-pounding adventures. Strap on your hiking boots and traverse the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon Track, or go on an abseiling expedition down the sheer cliffs of the Katoomba Cascades.
Those who want a bird’s eye view of the Blue Mountains’ beauty can soar above the treetops on a scenic helicopter ride, taking in breathtaking views of the sprawling valleys and cascading waterfalls below.
3. Explore subterranean marvels
Go deep into the earth’s crust and check out the hidden wonders of the Jenolan Caves, one of the oldest cave systems in the world. Sign up for a guided tour through labyrinthine passages adorned with stunning limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites that have been millions of years in the making. Both kids and adults will find themselves enchanted by the beauty and mysterious allure of these subterranean marvels.
4. Endless family-friendly fun at Scenic World
The Blue Mountains is the ultimate playground for families, offering plenty of kid-friendly activities guaranteed to keep the little ones (and their parents) entertained. Purchase your tickets at Scenic World and choose all sorts of thrilling adventures suitable even for babies.
Go on the steepest passenger railway in the world that takes you on a 310-metre route, which includes riding through a tunnel. You can even choose your level of adventure by adjusting the seats’ position!
Then there’s the Scenic Skyway, where passengers can glide between cliff tops and get completely unobstructed views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, Mt. Solitary, and Jamison Valley.
Other attractions include the Scenic Cableway. Again, you’ll be suspended mid-air and gently descended into the Jamison Valley. For the way back, choose between a ride back up to the top from the same way you descended or a relaxing walk to Scenic Railway’s base station.
The Scenic Walkway is also a must-see; those who aren’t walkers will transform into people who love clocking in steps. For more information on Scenic World and all the fun things that await, visit their website here.
5. Treat yourself to a gastronomic adventure
After a day full of adventure and exploration, take yourself and your loved ones on a culinary journey through the Blue Mountains’ food scene. Sample locally sourced produce and artisanal delights at bustling markets and charming cafes.
Alternatively, treat yourself to a sumptuous meal at one of the region’s award-winning restaurants, like No. 1 Sublime Point. There’s also a casual Italian spot, Azzurro Trattoria, to explore, and if a bougie steakhouse is what you’re looking for, then Embers Grill should do the trick.
6. Unwind and rejuvenate
There is more to the Blue Mountains than action-packed days. Here, away from the busy city life, you can unwind and relax with the tranquillity of the Blue Mountains landscape as your backdrop.
Treat yourself to a pampering spa treatment at one of the region’s luxury retreats, like the UBIKA Day Spa, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views from your cosy accommodation. We warn you that the scenes you’ll witness up in these mountains are unlike any other.
7. Walk around Katoomba town
Before exploring the Blue Mountains’ high points, make a pit stop at Katoomba and walk along the streets of the small towns, where delicious food and humble shops await. Enjoy some of the most delicious meals in unassuming places, as well as freshly baked bread and pastries. Hominy Bakery has some of the best sourdoughs I have ever tasted. If you want to bring home some souvenirs or antiques, plenty of places sell charming knickknacks.
