Lindsay Welcome to what I consider one of New South Wales’s most beautiful areas – the Blue Mountains! Think nature on steroids, and I still think I’m underselling it. Everywhere you look, scenery takes your breath away as far as the eye can see, and there are walks, trails, and hikes to suit everyone’s ability.
My first visit here was in 2007, when I took the train from Sydney with a friend on a hot summer’s day. I know what you’re thinking: walking on a scorching Australian summer’s day. Why would you do that to yourself? At one point, walking up a steep track, I did ask myself why we chose that day of all days to visit, but I was young and thought I was invincible.
Fast forward to now, and I was eager to return and spend a weekend in the Blue Mountains to show my family why they needed to visit this stunning place. And let me tell you, the magic hasn’t faded one bit.
Just an hour’s drive west of Sydney lies the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. It’s the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering incredible views and crisp, fresh air. Like any travel adventure, we encountered a few unexpected closures and last-minute changes along the way, but that’s all part of the journey! Despite the hiccups, my family and I had an unforgettable weekend exploring this stunning part of the world, and I’m so excited to share our experience with you.
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We rose early on the first day of the trip and were on the road before dawn. Since we live on the South Coast of New South Wales, and there were roadworks that day, we decided to take a different route through Goulburn, about an hour from the capital, Canberra, hoping it would be quicker.
After a brief breakfast stop, we continued along some torturous roads riddled with potholes… and, of course, managed to miss our turn-off. Great! And just when we thought it couldn’t get worse, we got stuck behind a Volvo doing 40 kilometres an hour under the speed limit. With narrow country lanes and no room to overtake, we had no choice but to crawl along behind Mr Volvo for what felt like forever.
DAY ONE – A Slow Volvo and the Road to the Mountains
The Scenic World Adventure That Ended Too Soon
When we finally arrived for our weekend in the Blue Mountains around 2 PM, about three hours behind schedule, our four-hour drive had somehow turned into seven! But with the weather absolutely glorious, I quickly forgot about our arduous journey.
Our first stop of the day was Scenic World. (READ FULL POST HERE) If there’s one thing you have to do while you’re here, make sure it’s this! Located in Katoomba, right in the heart of the Blue Mountains, this incredible attraction lets you ride cable cars high over the Jamison Valley, stroll along beautiful trails, and take a trip on the world’s steepest railway.
We got super lucky when we arrived, as there were no queues! I’ve heard horror stories about how busy it can get, especially on weekends and during school holidays, so this was a real win.
A real highlight is the Scenic Railway, a bright red train that glides down about 310 feet to the valley floor, letting you out into the middle of a lush rainforest. And the views? Insane. Endless green forests stretch as far as the eye can see, with that bluish haze in the distance that gives the Blue Mountains their name.
The Scenic Cableway was the cherry on top. The views over the Jamison Valley were absolutely breathtaking. From up there, we could see Katoomba Falls, the famous Three Sisters, and even Orphan Rock.
Frustratingly, we’d only explored a small section of the park when, less than 90 minutes later, it suddenly closed early, with no warning! Not exactly ideal, cutting our adventure short… but mark my words, I’m coming back for more!
Our home for the next two days
After a longer-than-expected drive and with the temperature still sitting above 30°C, we were all tired and decided to check into our accommodation. We’d booked two nights at the Katoomba Falls Tourist Park, and our cute two-bedroom Blaxland cabin, complete with a kitchen and living room, was perfect for our stay. The park’s location was just across the road from several trails leading to Katoomba Falls, makes it a standout choice.
That evening, we wandered over to one of the many free viewing platforms, just a few minutes’ walk from the park, to catch the sunset, and it was magical. We watched the vibrant green rainforest transform before our eyes, shifting into deep blue and purple hues as the sun dipped below the horizon.
We strolled the short distance back to our cabin, chatting excitedly about our brief but fun adventures on our first day of our weekend in the Blue Mountains. Now it was time to hit the hay and do it all again tomorrow.
DAY TWO – Cute Mountain Villages & more exploring
The next morning, after a big brekkie of homemade pancakes (a holiday tradition I whipped up), we set out early for our first stop of the day – the Toy Museum, just on the outskirts of Leura Village. Unfortunately, when we arrived, it was closed, with no warning on the website or social media. We were not very happy.
Across the road, we spotted some other families peering at large toys on display in a closed outdoor area. At least we managed to see some toys from the gate.
Luckily, a friendly local told us about a great spot nearby, the Cliff View Lookout, just down the path beside the museum. Although the track wasn’t in the best condition and the platform was a little uneven, the view was absolutely stunning, making it feel like we hadn’t wasted our morning.
Wandering Through Leura Village
Since Leura Village was just a short walk away, we decided to explore its pretty streets. With its colourful Victorian shopfronts, tree-lined avenues, and an eclectic mix of boutiques and cafes, it was the perfect spot for a wander.
The day was shaping up to be another hot one when we stumbled across the Way Goose Cafe, styled like a ’50s diner. Drawn in by its bright, retro exterior, Aria insisted we eat there. Despite the heat leaving me not-so-hungry, I couldn’t resist an ice-cold salted caramel milkshake. Meanwhile, my husband went for a full English breakfast, and Aria ordered her usual favourite—hot chips. They weren’t keen on sharing, so I took that as a hint that their meals were spot on!
Before leaving Leura, don’t forget to check out the beautiful garden mural in the alleyway next to the café. It’s definitely the most Instagrammable spot in the whole village.
Where the Trail Turns Magical (and a Bit Muddy)
Our next stop was one of the most stunning spots we saw during our weekend in the Blue Mountains: the Leura Cascades. Even the name sounds peaceful and chill, right?
There’s a car park nearby, but when we visited, it was closed due to roadworks. So, we ended up parking on a suburban street about a 10-minute walk away. Doesn’t sound far, but trust me, everything feels far when you’re hot and tired. More on that later.
As we got closer to the Cascades, we were greeted by lush rainforest views. Stone steps carved into the rock led us down through the trees, making it feel like we were wandering through an enchanted forest. The purpose-built paths kept us mostly shaded from the midday sun, thanks to the towering trees overhead.
The only downside? It had been raining for months before our visit, so the further we ventured into the forest, the boggier and muddier the trail became.
At some point, we decided to turn around and head back to the car. I was starving and needed some lunch. We didn’t quite make it down to the Cascades, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. We had the chance to see them that evening in much more enjoyable weather!
The walk back uphill was brutal. The sun felt hotter, the road steeper, and just when we needed energy the most, Aria hit her limit. She suddenly had to be carried. Isn’t it always the way? Kids pick the worst possible moments to throw a tantrum. So there we were—two tired parents, one cranky child, and an uphill climb. FML.
Hot, hungry, and more than ready for a break, we jumped in the car and drove straight to the Gingerbread House Café in the heart of Katoomba. It had been on our trip bucket list for ages, and it was just as magical as it sounds. Housed in what looked like an old church or village hall, it had a roaring fire, comfy armchairs, and a little shop in the middle selling the best Christmas lollies, treats, and decorations. Sadly, it seems to have closed down since our visit, likely a casualty of the pandemic.
Afterwards, Aria and Zac headed back to the cabin, totally knackered from all the walking. I decided to carry on exploring solo. Thankfully, everything I wanted to see was within walking distance.
Solo Exploring the Artistic Side of Katoomba
After a satisfying lunch, my first solo stop was at the Lost Bear Gallery, just a short 10-minute walk from where I was. With the temperature still rising, the heat felt relentless, I was eager to be in the comfort of some air conditioning! Upon arriving at the front of the building, I knew I was in the right place the moment I spotted a full-size polar bear wearing a mask. It was a quirky touch that brought a smile to my face in this post-pandemic era.
The gallery, once an old inn, now showcases a diverse collection of art. Among the highlights was Silent Parade by Judith Martinez Estrada, a captivating photo of a Victorian-era family printed on aluminium. I was also drawn to the stunning paintings and charcoal drawings of birds, each one full of life and detail.
But not everything was to my taste, like fluorescent pink cockroaches and beer cans. Yep, that was a no from me.
Next on my agenda was a short trek to the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre. Despite the uphill struggle and the resulting sweat (I swear I must have shed three times my body weight in perspiration today), the visit was well worth it. Entry to the centre is free, although some exhibitions may require a small fee, usually around five bucks.
Inside the large open-plan exhibition space, I found myself immersed in an eclectic display titled Post Haste by Claire Healy and Sean Cordeiro. It featured a collage of disassembled car parts, each suspended in nets along the wall. Some elements were a bit underwhelming, like the forgettable car video, but others really caught my attention. The Lego stingray was especially cool, and I was intrigued by the dismantled plane pieces hanging on the wall.
One exhibit not to miss is Into the Blue, a captivating exploration of how the Blue Mountains have inspired artists and photographers over the years. It also highlights the region’s importance as a place of healing, thanks to its crisp mountain air and the therapeutic waters of the Jenolan Caves. Being a bit of a map nerd, I was really impressed to find a giant map projected on the floor at the entrance. Surrounding screens showed images and videos of nature in the area, adding to the immersive experience.
While I was reading about the Dharawal and Gundungurra peoples, whose ancestral lands I was exploring, I was suddenly startled by a terrifying sound – crackling flames! In a moment of panic, I looked around and was horrified to see what appeared to be a raging fire spreading through the room. It took a few seconds to realise that the large screens were showing a simulated bushfire scenario, followed by scenes of regeneration. It was a powerful reminder of the resilience of nature. However, having lived through the trauma of the New Years Eve Bushfires with my family a few years ago, the experience triggered my PTSD and I made a quick exit in search of fresh air.
I took refuge on the decks outside, which offered a lovely view over Katoomba and the Blue Mountains beyond. No more indoor stops for me for the rest of the day!
I decided it was time to hunt down the Street Art Walk, located a short walk from here. Picture an ugly back alley, once just a dumping ground, now completely transformed into a vibrant canvas of art and creativity. It’s an absolute triumph and a total Instagrammer’s dream! Tucked away in Beverly Place since 2013, the moment you step into this incredible laneway, you’re hit with a riot of colour, murals of flowers, patterns, portraits, birds, space monkeys, and even crabs holding chopsticks. You name it, it’s probably here! I must’ve spent over an hour wandering around, thinking how much Zac and Aria would’ve loved seeing it all with me.
The Best Spot on our weekend in the Blue Mountains
That night, after relaxing in our air-conditioned cabin for a while, we decided to go and take in the epic Blue Mountain sunsets for the final time. As the night was a perfect temperature, not too hot, not too cold, it made the next hour or so really enjoyable.
We left our cabin and headed across the road to start the Katoomba Cascades Walk. It’s also a walk that you can do at night as it’s well-lit. You’ll meander down gently sloping paths and pass the Duke and Duchess of York Lookout, probably my favourite lookout as you’re able to see the Katoomba Falls Waterfall, which is a spectacular sight. The blue hues coming off the trees were a magical sight too.
At the bottom of the track, we followed the river along until we came across a sight that had us all pausing and saying, “woooow!” Right in front of us were the stunning Katoomba Cascades. Surrounded by beautiful rainforest, they are a collection of rocks that Mother Nature has cleverly arranged, making it easy for the water to gently flow over the stones into a large pond. The bottom is peppered with stepping stones, so wimps like me don’t need to get their feet wet. However, Zac and Aria kicked off their shoes and were straight in.
On the walk back up, we got to see the spectacular sunset again, watching the Jameson Valley transform with the green turning to darker shades of blue, as the sunset painted the sky in warm colours. Pure magic!
Day Three – Gardens and Icons
The Iconic Spot
On our last day, I knew we couldn’t leave the Blue Mountains without first heading to Echo Point to see the iconic view of the Three Sisters rock formations. It was a picture-perfect day, with not a single cloud in the bright blue sky. It wasn’t overly busy either —winner, winner! We walked along some of the flat surrounding paths to get different views of the Three Sisters, then headed back to the car for our final stop of the trip.
A Perfect Ending at Everglades House & Gardens
For our last stop of the trip, we visited Everglades House and Gardens, just a 10-minute drive away. I didn’t know much about the place before arriving, but after seeing it online, I thought it would be a nice spot to visit. I was pleasantly surprised, as the gardens felt like something you’d expect at a country manor in England.
There were plenty of paths and trails to explore, with many spots to stop and take in the stunning views of this World Heritage area. I especially loved the Italian-style garden, which looked like it belonged in the Vatican Gardens, complete with its pillars and water feature.
The centrally located Everglades House served as a perfect example of a well-preserved 1920s-era home, with the most exquisite staircase! Outside, we found more beautifully manicured lawns, separated by hedges and slate paths lined with lush greenery and flowers. However, it was here that we saw a sign warning of a recent snake sighting. Yikes! So, we decided to leave shortly after. But at least we ended our weekend in the Blue Mountains trip on a high note.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
❓ FAQ – PLANNING YOUR OWN WEEKEND IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
How to get to the Blue Mountains?
Getting to the Blue Mountains is a breeze, even though it’s nestled in the countryside. If you’re driving from Sydney, it’s just about an hour away. Alternatively, if you prefer public transport, numerous trains depart from Sydney Central Station to the Blue Mountains. The train journey takes around two hours, offering scenic views along the way as it stops at various stations like Katoomba, Lithgow, and Blackheath.
How to get around?
Exploring the vast expanse of the Blue Mountains is best done by vehicle. If you’re not driving, consider joining a guided tour to hit the top spots efficiently. Additionally, you can opt for the Blue Mountains Hop On Hop Off Explorer Bus, which conveniently drops you off at major attractions, lookout points, and walking trails. It’s a budget-friendly option, especially if you purchase a combined train ticket. And for the adventurous souls, walking is a fantastic way to explore the area, though be prepared for some hill trekking.
How many days do you recommend for visiting the Blue Mountains?
I spent a couple of days here and packed in a lot, but honestly, you could easily spend 3-4 days here and still find more to explore. It all depends on how much walking or sightseeing you want to do!
Is it better to drive or take public transport from Sydney?
We had a car, which made it really easy to get around, especially to places like Everglades House and the quieter lookouts. But you can definitely do it by train from Sydney. Katoomba Station is close to many of the main attractions. If you’re not driving, you can use the Hop On Hop Off Blue Mountains Explorer Bus. Book >HERE<
What time of year did you visit, and what was the weather like?
We visited during the summer months, and while it was hot at times, the evenings cooled down nicely, perfect for sunset walks like the one we did to Katoomba Cascades.
Where did you stay, and would you recommend it?
We stayed at Katoomba Falls Tourist Park, in their two-bedroom Blaxland cabin, with air-conditioning, which was ideal for relaxing after busy days exploring. It was also super convenient for getting to most places on foot or by car.
Are the walks suitable for kids or older travellers?
Yes! There are plenty of short, accessible walks, like the one to Echo Point or the night-lit path to Katoomba Cascades. Just make sure to wear comfy shoes and take water with you.
Do I need to book anything in advance?
Most of the places I visited were free or didn’t require booking, but if you want to do a guided tour or special day trip, I’d recommend booking ahead, especially during weekends or school holidays.
Which lookout was your favourite?
The Duke and Duchess of York Lookout was a standout for me. The views of Katoomba Falls and the blue haze over the trees were just magical.
Would you visit again with your whole family?
Absolutely. Zac and Aria would have loved the Street Art Walk and exploring the waterfalls, so we’re already thinking about what to do next time.
Any tips for avoiding the crowds?
Try visiting midweek if you can, as it will make a huge difference! And if you go early in the morning or later in the day (like at sunset), many popular spots are much quieter.
What’s one thing you didn’t get to do but wish you had?
There’s still so much I want to explore, like the Jenolan Caves as well as more hikes further afield. So, this trip was just the beginning!
Thanks for reading my blog post today on our awesome weekend in the Blue Mountains. If you’re looking to plan your own trip here or explore for yourself, I’ve got you covered! Below, you’ll find some fantastic day trips and activities you can book through my affiliate links (I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you). Whether you want to soak in a magical sunset over the Jamison Valley, wander through the quirky Street Art Walk, or unwind in peaceful gardens like those at the Everglades, there’s something for everyone. These links are a great way to plan your trip with ease. Don’t forget to subscribe for updates and inspiration from my future adventure!
Wow! That looks and sounds like an amazing trip. The scenery is stunning, but I especially loved the street art.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Graham. Yep, it truly is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Australia. I loved the Street Art Walk too, and when I saw it online, knew I had to visit, as I love good graffiti 🙂
Love this!! I adore the mountains and hiking this looks like such a great spot. Very helpful breakdown of things to remember and useful tips! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thanks Andrea 🙂 If you love hiking, this post just shows you a snap shot of what you can do there, as there are sooo many walks, trails and hikes for days. Defo stick it on your bucket list. Cheers!
I miss traveling to Australia, especially Sydney. One of my Favorite destinations in the world. Wish I will travel there again someday.
Thanks Fadima, I always appreciate your kind comments 🙂 I hope you get to travel here again, as it’s one of my favourite cities too.
Wow, this looks and sounds absolutely amazing! What a great way to go exploring and spend some time out and about. I would love to do this.
Thanks Molly. It truly is a stunning spot, and so close to Sydney, you could easily do it as a day trip 🙂