The Blue Mountains attractions range from wonderful hikes and lookouts to magnificent gardens.
Other highlights include Scenic World and the beautiful limestone caves of Jenolan Caves.
The Blue Mountains National Park is well-known for its rugged landscape and dramatic scenery. Enjoy views of sheer cliff walls, deep canyons, rainforests and tall waterfalls.
Make sure you check the current alerts before you visit. Some parts of the Blue Mountains National Park can often be closed for many reasons like bushfires, floodings or repairs.
Visiting the Blue Mountains? Here's a complete guide to the absolute best things to do in this spectacular wilderness. Discover the region's most popular attractions as well as its lesser-known gems below.
Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.
BEST BLUE MOUNTAINS ATTRACTIONS:
Echo Point is undoubtedly the most popular lookout in the Blue Mountains. It's the best place to capture the spectacular views of the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley.
The Three Sisters are a remarkable rock formation – three massive sandstone peaks that stand side by side in the Jamison Valley. According to Aboriginal legend, the rocks were sisters who were turned to stone to protect them from harm.
The views are truly spectacular, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The rocks are floodlit at night until 11pm.
Echo Point is wheelchair and pram accessible.
Getting there: Drive to the corner of Echo Point Road and Cliff Drive in Katoomba. There's a parking fee. Or alight at Katoomba Station and catch bus 686 or walk for 30 min (2.5 km). The lookout is also accessible via the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.
Scenic World is the most popular man-made attraction in the Blue Mountains. Enjoy thrilling rides while taking in breathtaking valley views.
Embark on the steepest passenger train in the world, the Scenic Railway. Stroll through the temperate rainforest, then get back up aboard the Scenic Cableway. Finally, glide above the Jamison Valley aboard the Scenic Skyway.
Scenic World was a highlight with our kids.
It's better to book your tickets ahead because it can get busy.
Getting there: To get to Scenic World, drive to the corner of Cliff Drive and Violet Street in Katoomba. If you're arriving by train, walk 30 min (2.5 km) from Katoomba Station or catch bus 686 or 686G. Scenic World is also accessible via the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.
Explore the largest caves in Australia and the world's oldest caves.
You can tour nine out of 300 caves. The Imperial Cave is the easiest to visit and perfect for kids. And the River Cave is the toughest, with 1,298 stair steps and two high steel ladders. Lucas Cave, the most famous, contains the 'Cathedral' chamber and offers glimpses of an underground river.
You’ll be blown away by the beautiful limestone formations and underground rivers. And the tour guides are knowledgeable and engaging.
Getting there: You'll need a car to get there. There are also coach services from Katoomba or Sydney.
The Three Sisters Walk is probably one of the most well-known hike in the Blue Mountains because it's short and leads to the famous rock formation.
For the first part, the path is paved and suitable for wheelchairs. Then you descend steep stairs to Honeymoon Bridge, which connects to the first sister – the exciting part. The views are amazing.
Allow 1hr. Try to get there as early as possible to avoid the crowds.
Getting there: The walk starts from Echo Point lookout in Katoomba.
Govetts Leap lookout provides some of the most breathtaking views in the Blue Mountains. It's on par with Echo Point but without the large crowds.
Enjoy incredible views of the Grose Valley's deep canyons and massive sandstone cliffs. Also, many top hikes start from here including Pulpit Rock and Cliff Top Walks. You can even hike to Bridal Veil Falls.
Getting there: To get to Govetts Leap Lookout, drive to the end of Govetts Leap Road in Blackheath. There's plenty of parking. Or take the train to Blackheath Station and walk 3 km to the lookout.
Leura is a gorgeous village with manicured houses and gardens.
Stroll along the strip of quaint shops at Leura Mall. Shop for unique accessories at Teddy Sinclair and savour homemade brownies at Josaphan's Fine Chocolates. The Candy Store, with lollies from all around the world, is a highlight!
Dine at Madame Wang's or Polar Bear of Leura.
Spring is an ideal time to visit because the cherry trees are in full bloom.
Getting there: Follow the Great Western Highway and turn left onto Scott Avenue to get to Leura. If you're arriving by train, alight at Leura Station.
This popular 6-km loop hike takes you to waterfalls, rock pools, creeks and stunning views.
It's one of the best bushwalks I have experienced.
The walking track descends into the Grose Valley, continues through lush rainforest then ascends out. The canyon keeps you cool in summer.
The walk is graded 3. Allow 3 hrs.
Getting there: The Grand Canyon Walk starts at Evans Lookout in Blackheath. Follow Evans Lookout Road to the end and park in the carpark.
Wentworth Falls is an impressive waterfall that cascades 200 m down.
Hike around Wentworth Falls and enjoy fabulous views from the lookouts. There are walks for different levels of fitness. Take an easy stroll to the top of the waterfall or a strenuous hike to the bottom.
Enjoy the best views from Princes Rock and Fletchers lookouts.
Getting there: Park at Wentworth Falls picnic area along Sir H Burrell Drive in Wentworth Falls.
Located in Mount Wilson, Breenhold Gardens covers an area of 45 hectares.
See northern hemisphere trees, flowering trees, tall eucalypts and more. Autumn is the top time to visit because of all the colourful leaves. The series of pine forest windbreaks is stunning.
Breenhold Gardens is usually open in spring and autumn.
Getting there: Located 29 The Avenue in Mount Wilson.
The Japanese Bath House is so relaxing!
Take a cold plunge into the icy tube then unwind in an indoor and outdoor hot bath. Get your private bath if you wish. The steam room is the highlight!
Follow with a massage that uses a blend of Japanese and Thai techniques.
Book well ahead because it's super busy.
Getting there: Located at 259 Sir Thomas Mitchell Drive in South Bowenfels.
Spreading over 8 hectares, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Area.
Stroll along the meandering paths and enjoy amazing views of the gardens and the valley. See local and imported cool climate plants and alpine rainforest.
It’s free to visit.
Getting there: The gardens are located at Mount Tomah. Follow Bells Line of Road to the gardens halfway between Lithgow and Richmond.
This 7-km return walk offers some of the best views in the Blue Mountains. Climb up to the top of Lockleys Pylon and enjoy a panoramic vista of the Grose Valley.
The walk is moderately challenging – you’ll walk on rocky paths and short hills. Allow 3 hrs.
Getting there: Follow Mount Hay Road in Leura to the carpark. It’s a 10-km gravel road.
Experience the Prince Henry Cliff Walk for dramatic landscapes.
This 7-km hike follows the cliff edge between Katoomba and Leura. It passes lots of lookouts with some of the best views in the Blue Mountains.
The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 3 hrs to complete. But you can exit at many places along the trail.
Getting there: The walk begins at Echo Point in Katoomba or Gordon Falls picnic area in Leura.
The short hike to get to this pretty waterfall is a highlight – the views are picturesque.
The walking track takes you to the bottom of the falls through a temperate rainforest past scenic lookouts.
Getting there: The walk starts at Scenic World in Katoomba, corner of Violet St and Cliff Dr. You can also get there by public bus or the Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.
Norman Lindsay Gallery is the former home of the artist Norman Lindsay.
See his oil paintings, model boats and sculptures and the gallery featuring the characters from The Magic Pudding. Then enjoy the cafe and the shop.
You can also stay in one of the cabins on the property, which includes an admission ticket to the gallery.
Booking is required.
Getting there: Located at 14 Norman Lindsay Crescent in Faulconbridge.
The small arms manufacturing factory began production in 1912 and became Australia's first high precision mass production facility.
Now the museum presents a collection of arms from the era of the first production to the current day. It’s also well-known for its collection of modern firearms from around the world.
Getting there: Located at 69 Methven Street in Lithgow.
This 5-km iconic Blue Mountains hike offers magnificent views of the Jamison Valley and Three Sisters.
Descend 998+ vertiginous steel and stone steps to the bottom of the cliff. Walk in the valley all the way to Scenic World. Then ascend the mountain aboard the Scenic Railway.
The hike is strenuous and takes about 2-3 hrs to complete.
Getting there: The track starts at Echo Point in Katoomba, corner of Echo Point Road and Cliff Drive. You can also get there via public bus or the hop on hop off Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.
Cahill's lookout offers impressive views of the massive Megalong Valley and Narrow Neck Plateau.
You can spot Boar's Head Rock from the viewpoint – a unique rock formation that looks exactly like a pig head.
Cahill's lookout is in the heart of the Blue Mountains, yet away from the crowds. It's one of the best places to watch the sunset.
Getting there: Head to the Western side of Cliff Drive in Katoomba near corner of Essendene Avenue. Plenty of parking spots are available. Cahill's lookout is an easy 2-minute walk from the carpark.
The Campbell Rhododendron Gardens in Blackheath covers an area of 18.3 hectares.
See exotic species like Azalea and Rhododendrons, which thrive among native eucalypts and bushland. Then enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a delicious scone with jam and cream at Rhodo Tea Room.
The best time to visit is from October to November because the rhododendrons are in full bloom.
Allow at least 1hr to stroll along the walking tracks.
Getting there: Located on Bacchante Street in Blackheath. It's a 15-minute walk from Blackheath Station.
Dubbed the "land of the mountain apple", the town of Bilpin is known for its delicious apples.
Sample fresh apple and pear cider at Bilpin Cider made with fresh local fruits with zero sugar or artificial flavours.
Delicious!
Sit on the lawn and enjoy live music. You can also visit the gardens and orchards.
Getting there: Located at 2369 Bells Line of Road in Bilpin.
The 400-m tunnel near Lithgow was built in the early 1900s as part of the railway to Newnes Kerosene and Shale Works.
Now abandoned, the Glow Worm Tunnel is the best place to see the glowing blue light of glow worms. Dozens of them cling to the walls and roof. Bring a torch and good walking shoes.
Recommended tour: Wolgan Valley Eco Tours.
Getting there: Follow Bells Line of Road and turn off at Clarence (Zig Zag Railway). Follow the gravel road through Newnes State Forest for 39 km. Continue on Glow Worm Tunnel Road to the carpark. The road is rough, so you'll need a 4WD.
Following the side of a cliff, this epic hike was built by hand in the early 20th century.
Enjoy strolling along ledges, climbing staircases and descending the historic Grand Stairway to the base of the Wentworth Falls.
The walk takes around 3 hrs to complete.
Due to a rockfall in 2017, National Pass is closed between Valley of the Waters and Slack Stairs. Check the latest update here.
Getting there: National Pass starts at the Conservation Hut at the end of Fletcher Street in Wentworth Falls.
Located in Mount Wilson, Bebeah Gardens is a cool climate garden that sprawls over 5 hectares.
See impressive and towering trees like oaks, magnolias and conifers, and beautiful hedges of species like azaleas and camellias.
Autumn is the best time to visit because of the stunning colours.
Getting there: Located at 60 The Avenue in Mount Wilson.
Enjoy sweeping views of the Jamison Valley and Three Sisters at Sublime Point lookout.
The lookout is perched high on the edge of a cliff. It's no doubt one of the best viewpoints in the Blue Mountains. You'll see far across the valley and feel like you're on top of the world.
It doesn’t get too crowded and there are picnic tables on the path leading to the lookout.
Getting there: Follow Sublime Point Road in Leura to the end. The lookout is a short and easy walk from the carpark.
Head to Cinnabar Kitchen in Blackheath for an outstanding dining experience. It will make you feel like you're dining overseas.
Enjoy the warm atmosphere and excellent service. Try the sizzling Jamaican spiced prawn pot, the poached spinach ricotta dumplings and the braised beef cheeks. A treat!
The restaurant is suitable for people over eight.
Getting there: Located at 246 Great Western Highway in Blackheath. It's a short stroll from Blackheath Station.
Lincoln's Rock is a large flat rock that offers sweeping views over the valley and mountains.
You'll be literally standing on the cliff's edge – a thrilling experience!
Go at sunset for the best outlook and take the most stunning photos. There are also cool caves near the lookout you can explore. Be careful with children because the rock is not fenced off.
Getting there: The carpark is on Little Switzerland Drive in Wentworth Falls. It’s a 2-minute walk from the carpark. Park just before Switzerland Drive if you have a small car because the road is unsealed.
Enjoy the view of the orchard at Hillbilly Cider and delight in the atmosphere.
Sit outside for the fresh air or inside beside the fire. Kids will enjoy playing in the grassy area.
Sip on a delicious cider, beer or wine while savouring a woodfire pizza. Or even better, try a tasting paddle.
Getting there: Located at 2230 Bells Line of Road in Bilpin.
The Cliff Top Walking Track runs around the edge of the Grose Valley from one stunning viewpoint to another.
The track passes many lookouts with amazing views of the valley and waterfalls.
It's challenging but one of the best Blue Mountains hikes.
Getting there: The hike starts at Govetts Leap lookout in Blackheath. Follow Govetts Leap Road, drive through the park entrance and follow the signs.
Visiting this amazing garden may well be the highlight of your trip.
Sprawling over 65 hectares, Mayfield Garden is Australia's largest privately-owned garden and one of the world's biggest cool climate gardens. Its creation was inspired by stately gardens in Europe.
Enjoy cascading water, colourful trees, the stunning stone bridge and the impressive Water Garden. Kids will love the Maze.
Getting there: Located 530 Mayfield Road in Mayfield.
Do not miss this fantastic antique centre in the Blue Mountains if you like collectable objects.
You'll find a large variety of gone by items over two floors. You can easily spend hours wandering around and looking at all those treasures. There's a cafe on-site for a well-needed break after antique hunting.
Getting there: Located at 21 Govetts Leap Road in Blackheath. It's a short walk from Blackheath Station.
Made by the damming of Jamison Creek to provide water for steam railways, Wentworth Falls Lake is now used for recreation.
It’s a great spot to relax and take the kids because there’s lots of space to run around. Ride scooters along the shore, walk around the lake and picnic on the water's edge. Children will also enjoy the pirate ship playground and all the ducks.
Getting there: Follow Sinclair Crescent in Wentworth Falls to the carpark.
What's better than wine and cheese in breathtaking surrounds!
Taste delicious wine and savour cold meat and cheeses or a ploughman's platter at Dryridge Estate. Enjoy fantastic views of the Megalong Valley and escarpments from the Cellar Door.
This boutique vineyard is open for wine tasting on weekends.
Getting there: Located at 226 Aspinall Road, Megalong Valley. The last couple of kilometres is on an unsealed road.
Stroll through Beverly Place and admire over 30 murals full of aerosol art created by some of the best local and international street artists.
It’s worth the detour if you’re in town.
The stunning murals have transformed an ordinary laneway into a giant open-air art gallery. A quirky addition to Katoomba!
Getting there: Beverly Place is a back alley in the heart of Katoomba, across the road from the Yellow Deli.
Pulpit Rock lookout is nothing short of spectacular. The views over the Grose Valley are incredible.
Three lookouts linked by stairs and railings sit on three different levels. Standing on this raised rock platform is thrilling. I dare you to walk down to the last floor on the edge of the cliff!
If you feel like hiking, a track leads to Govetts Leap lookout.
Getting there: Turn onto Hat Hill Road from Great Western Highway in Blackheath and follow the signs to Pulpit Rock lookout. The lookout is 400 m from the carpark.
There are terrific mountain biking trails in the Blue Mountains for everyone.
Oaks Fire Trail is exhilarating and suitable for beginners. Burramoko Ridge is also ideal for beginners because there are slight hills – and it leads to Hanging Rock. Other great trails include Narrow Neck and GBMT.
For less exertion, ride an E-Bike with a guided tour.
As the name suggests, Hanging Rock is a massive rock formation that hangs over a cliff.
The place makes for fantastic photos.
Don't try to jump over the gap to get on Hanging Rock because there's a long drop. It's very dangerous. This place is not suitable for kids because of the unfenced cliff edge.
Getting there: Follow Ridgewell Road in Blackheath to the locked gate. Or catch the train to Blackheath station and walk for 3 km. Then walk or ride a bike along Burramoko Fire Trail for 5 km.
The town of Katoomba is in the heart of the Blue Mountains – the perfect base to explore the region's biggest attractions.
Explore the Street Art Walk, shop for a second-hand book at Mr Pickwicks Fine Old Book, and dine at Aunty Ed's or Basil Nut.
Then grab a drink and cosy up beside the fireplace at the luxurious Carrington Hotel. Or enjoy delicious chips with aioli at Old City Bank Brasserie.
Getting there: Drive along Great Western Highway and follow directions to Katoomba. Turn left into Parke Street. If you’re arriving by train, alight at Katoomba Station. From there, you can walk to most places.
If you're around Lithgow, do yourself a favour – have dinner at Crib Room Restaurant. I had one of the best meals there.
Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, extensive menu and generous portions. Best of all, the service is attentive and the food amazing. Also lovely is the old mining artifacts and photos on the walls.
Getting there: Located at 121 Main Street in Wallerawang.
Lost Bear Gallery in Katoomba displays gorgeous contemporary art by Australian artists.
See fabulous paintings, sculptures, ceramics and glass art. There are also different exhibitions throughout the year.
The gallery opens daily from 10am.
Getting there: Located at 98 Lurline Street in Katoomba.
The Jellybean Pool is a great place to stop on your way to the Blue Mountains when it’s hot.
Enjoy swimming and picnicking on the sandy beaches. Younger children can splash about in the shallow water near the shore. Keep a close watch on the kids because there are many deep swimming holes.
Getting there: Follow the national park entrance on Bruce Road in Glenbrook. Check directions.
Have a sweet tooth?
Then stop at Blue Mountains Chocolate Company in Katoomba between your sightseeing trips.
Sip on a delicious hot chocolate made with real chocolate melting on candlelight. Indulge in handmade chocolates, caramel cheesecake and chocolate mud cake. It's a great place to buy chocolate presents to bring back home.
Getting there: Located at 76 Lurline street in Katoomba. It's a short walk from Echo Point.
The Woodford Oaks trail is exhilarating.
Ride your mountain bike downhill for eighty per cent of the way from Woodford to Glenbrook, from an altitude of 607 to 163 m. The single track at the end is the icing on the cake. The trail runs for 28 km and takes 3-5 hrs to complete.
Getting there: Park your car at Glenbrook Railway Station and catch the train to Woodford with your bike. The trail begins at the dirt road with the locked gate along Taylor Road.
Blackheath is a lovely village to visit. It has many shops and cafes like Katoomba and Leura but without the tourist crowds.
Enjoy Campos coffee at Anonymous Café. Drop in for a fresh sandwich at Blackheath Continental Deli. Have a cup of soup and choc top with a movie at the old fashioned cinema Mount Vic Flicks.
Visit the nearby Govetts Leap lookout and Campbell Rhododendron Gardens.
Getting there: Follow the Great Western Highway and turn onto Bundarra Street. If you're arriving by train, alight at Blackheath Station. The town is a short walk from the station.
Abseil down waterfalls, jump into pools of crystal-clear water and swim through waterways.
The Blue Mountains has hundreds of deep and narrow canyons carved by rivers running through the sandstone plateau. Canyoning and abseiling in the Blue Mountains is a fun adventure.
Check out High and Wild Abseiling and Canyoning Adventures.
The Blue Mountains Cultural Centre in Katoomba contains a gallery with exhibitions and artworks.
There's also a library and an interactive display. Into the Blue explores the history and natural landscape of the Blue Mountains. Enjoy the views across the town from the viewing platform, a coffee and local arts and crafts at the gift shop.
Getting there: Located at 30 Parke Street in Katoomba.
If you’re visiting Jenolan Caves, you can also walk along a track to the Blue Lake. The colour of the water is striking.
The lake is a platypus habitat, so you can’t swim in it, but you can have a dip at the bottom of the small waterfall if you can handle the icy water.
Enjoy a handcrafted beer at this little gem in Katoomba.
This locals' favourite venue offers a great selection of beers and burgers and fries.
The place has a cosy feeling, and the interior is beautifully styled with high ceilings and exposed beams.
Getting there: Located 23-25 Parke Street in Katoomba.
Elysian Rock lookout offers magnificent views across the Jamison Valley.
Two fenced lookouts joined by a bridge sit high on the cliff edge. You can sit on a bench to admire the vista.
Elysian Rock lookout is along the popular Prince Henry Cliff Walk if you feel like hiking. And it's a 5-minute drive to Everglades House & Gardens.
Getting there: Park on Olympic Parade opposite Balmoral Road in Leura and follow the moderate but short track to the lookout. It's also accessible via the hop on hop off Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.
The hop on and off bus is a great way to explore the Blue Mountains’ major attractions.
It's a fantastic transport to have when hiking because you can get dropped off near a walking track and then picked up further away.
It's a bit more expensive than public transport but it saves you a lot of time.
Featherdale Wildlife Park is not in the Blue Mountains, but it's a popular place to visit on the way from Sydney. Many touring buses stop there on their way to the Blue Mountains.
It’s a wonderful hands-on zoo. You’ll see many native and international animals and get up close to some animals like koalas and hand-feed kangaroos.
Getting there: Located 217-229 Kildare Road in Doonside.
Travelling with kids via Bells Line of Road?
Then why not stop at an orchard and pick fruits. The town of Bilpin is full of orchards where you can pick apples or stone fruit, depending on the time of the year.
There's no entry fee. You just have to pay for what you pick.
Stock up on tasty delis, beers and wines for your picnic at Carrington Cellars & Deli in Katoomba.
Browse the enormous range of local and international wines, beers and cheeses, not to mention excellent local produce like jams, preserves and honey.
Getting there: Located in the old Katoomba power station on Parke Street in Katoomba.
Leura Cascades is a pretty waterfall.
The hike takes you past two smaller waterfalls then to Leura Cascades. Enjoy the sound of birds chirping and the stream cascading down the rocky slope.
You can also walk further to Bridal Veil lookout and enjoy stunning views over Bridal Veil Falls.
The walk is moderately easy and takes 30 min so it's perfect with kids.
Getting there: Drive to Leura Cascades picnic area on Chelmsford Drive in Leura. It's also accessible via the hop on hop off Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.
The Blue Mountains Heritage Centre is a great place to visit and receive expert advice about exploring the region. The staff is super friendly and welcoming – they’ll give you tips about hikes and activities in the Blue Mountains.
There's also a gallery, a gift shop and an excellent interactive display. Enjoy watching the video presentation.
Getting there: Located 270 Govetts Leap Road in Blackheath.
Enjoy a secluded stay in the wilderness.
Spend a night at The Enchanted Cave for a unique and romantic experience. Cosy up by the fire at night. The views of the valley from the spa, the balcony, the bed and the outdoor shower are breathtaking.
The little round door to enter the cave is very cool. And do not miss the nearby glow worm tour after your stay.
Grab a super tasty pie at Mountain High Pies.
From vegetarian to vegan to gluten-free to traditional meat pies, the choice is yours. No wonder this venue has won lots of awards over the years.
Try the brekkie pie with homemade baked beans, sausage, chorizo, soft poached egg, bacon and potato topped with hollandaise sauce. Or a satay lentil and chickpea pie.
Getting there: Located at 293 Great Western Highway in Wentworth Falls.
If you're passionate about trains or have children who love Thomas the Tank Engine, spend a day at Valley Heights Rail Museum.
You'll see a great selection of locomotives and model railways. And the oldest roundhouse left in NSW. The ride in the steam tram is a highlight.
The museum opens on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month. Book online before you go.
Getting there: Located at 17 Tusculum Road in Valley Heights.
Charles Darwin Walk is easy, has bridges and boardwalks and takes about 1hr each way. It's a great walk to experience if you arrive by train because it's right next to the railway station.
The hike follows a creek with several cascades and arrives at the top of Wentworth Falls. There are stunning views of the Jamison Valley and water tumbling down the cliff. You can also continue going down the steep stairs to the bottom of Wentworth Falls.
Getting there: Park at Wentworth Falls picnic area on Falls Road in Wentworth Falls. If you arrive by train, alight at Wentworth Falls Station and head to Wilson Park 500 m away.
The Wind Eroded Cave is an unusual rock formation – the wind has carved the tall cave over time and created various holes.
You can also hike to Anvil Rock while you're there because the track starts from the same carpark. It's a great spot to take kids because both walks reward you with fascinating features.
Getting there: Follow Hat Hill Road in Blackheath and take the turnoff to Anvil Rock. The Wind Eroded Cave is a short walk from the car park.
Visit the extensive gardens and historic house in Leura.
Saunter through the terraced gardens, courtyards and cobblestone pathways. The shrubs, cherry blossom trees and the views are beautiful. Then enjoy the Art Deco design in the main house and a Devonshire tea, scones and homemade cake in the tea room.
Booking is required.
Getting there: Located at 37 Everglades Avenue in Leura. There's plenty of off-street car parking. It's also accessible via the hop on hop off Blue Mountains Explorer Bus.
The Ruined Castle Walk is one of the best hikes in the Blue Mountains. It begins at the Golden Stairs and descends into the Jamison Valley.
The track leads to a beautiful rock formation that looks like a ruined castle. It offers stunning views over the valley.
The hike is rated hard because of the steep slope and stairs at the start and finish. It's otherwise easy.
Getting there: Follow the unsealed Glenraphael Drive in Katoomba for about 2 km to the Golden Stairs carpark. You can also begin from Scenic World if you're travelling by bus.
If you fancy seclusion in the wilderness, check out Treehouse Blue Mountains in Bilpin.
The treehouse sits between two national parks and is completely surrounded by nature. It makes for a great escape. The photos don't do justice to this incredible place.
The treehouse is not suitable for children.
Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms is home to loads of teawares.
You’ll see over 5,500 teapots from all over the world spanning many centuries. Enjoy the Traditional High Tea or Devonshire Tea in the tearooms.
Getting there: Located on the corner of Grose and Megalong Streets in Leura. There’s disabled access.
Get away from the crowds and visit Anvil Rock for a sweeping vista of the Grose Valley and mountains, including Mount Banks. You may even see Sydney CBD in the distance if you have good eyes.
The best time to visit is at sunset.
Getting there: Follow Hat Hill Road in Blackheath, which becomes Perrys Lookdown Road, an unsealed road. Keep left at the fork and drive to the small car park. It's a moderate 5-minute walk to the lookout.
The Mount Banks Summit walk is a short but steep climb.
The views from the summit are obstructed but you'll get a stunning outlook of the Grose Valley while hiking up. You can also take the easier but longer path to the summit along the road but the views are not as good.
Getting there: Follow Bells Line of Road toward Mount Tomah. About 10 km past Mount Tomah, take the turnoff to Mount Banks picnic area. Drive on the unsealed road for 1 km until you reach the parking spot.
Take the short but steep walk down to Empress Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Blue Mountains. It’s awe-inspiring after rain.
The hike takes at least 1hr. The steps can be slippery so wear good walking shoes.
Getting there: The track starts at the Conservation Hut at the end of Fletcher Street in Wentworth Falls.
Feeling adventurous? Head to Kanangra-Boyd National Park.
Drive on the unsealed road with your 4WD and hike to the breathtaking Kanangra Walls.
Follow the Plateau Walk, which takes about 2 hrs and enjoy the stunning scenery. Then take the shorter track to the lookout. Your jaw will drop at the majesty and sheer size of the view.
You're likely to see wildlife too.
Getting there: Follow Jenolan Caves Road, turn onto Kanangra Walls Road and drive on the unsealed road for 27 km.