The top towns in the Blue Mountains
Because of its appeal and prominent tourist sites, seeing the Blue Mountains towns’ natural beauty, culture, and gastronomic pleasures may take more than a weekend. Hidden among stunning mountains, these settlements fascinate visitors with their charming streets, cosy cafes, and breathtaking surroundings with natural wonders.The Blue Mountains area of Australia is recognized for its lovely villages, attractive coffee shops, and scenic valleys that may be enjoyed all year. When travelling along the Great Western Highway, picking what charming mountain town to stay in or dine in might be the most challenging vacation aspect.
While Leura and Katoomba are popular day trip locations from Sydney, others are just as tempting. We’ve picked a few must-see cities with stunning mountain vistas for anyone the Blue Mountains tour and its scenic lookouts.
Glenbrook
When visiting the Blue Mountains, Glenbrook is your first stop. This lovely village has a main street lined with coffee cafes and boutiques. 2773, a casual cafe with a petting zoo, offers breakfast and coffee to start the day. Alternatively, you may dine at The Church, a beautiful restaurant housed in a historic village church, or visit Kickaboom, Glenbrook’s newest small cafe.
Lawson
Lawson, located halfway up the mountains, provides an excellent opportunity for guests to engage in activities that allow them to stretch their legs after a long trip. One alternative is to trek the South Lawson Waterfalls Circuit path, which winds across a vast, unspoiled woodland region.
Alternatively, you may cycle the 27-kilometer Oaks Trail trail in Woodford, which circles back to Glenbrook. This full-day outdoor trip is ideal for families seeking an exciting outdoor experience.
Leura
Leura has luxury retail alternatives and represents the lifestyle of a wealthy mountain village. The village sells various items, including excellent cuisine, antiques, home décor, and stores featuring well-known brands.
In addition to viewing the nearby historic Everglades House and its Art Deco gardens, tourists may have a leisurely picnic on the picturesque slopes. If you wish to see Shakespeare’s Sport for Jove performed locally, go during the summer. Finally, before leaving Leura, you should treat yourself to some delicious candies from the famous candy store.
Wentworth Falls
Wentworth Falls has a European flavour, with several patisseries and laid-back, informal cafés, ancient pine trees bordering the streets, and a historic railway station.
On a sunny day, relax in a comfortable nook of the casual Cafe Fed with a cup of coffee and a warm pretzel from Schwartz’s bakery. Wentworth Falls Lake is a beautiful regional park with playgrounds and barbecue pits.
Take the chance to go a short distance into the jungle to Empress Falls, a 30-meter cascade.
Medlow Bath
Between Katoomba and Blackheath, where the famous Hydro Majestic Hotel is a major tourist destination, lies Medlow Bath.
The hotel reflects the natural beauty and grace of a past period and is situated by the roadside with a panoramic view of the Megalong Valley. The grandeur of its appearance is further accentuated within its walls.
Savour a delightful cup of tea and unwind on the opulent couches while enjoying the mountain views.
Tea at the Hydro Majestic Hotel is worth a visit.
Blackheath
Blackheath welcomes you with the graciousness that only a tiny, charming town can provide. Antique enthusiasts will find it the perfect destination because of its location in a mountainous area and extensive historical heritage.
For those interested in rare treasures, the Victory Theatre Antique Centre and Café welcome visitors passionate about vintage collectibles. Blackheath also offers many breathtaking mountain botanic gardens, like the 18 well-kept parks and trees of the Campbell Rhododendron Botanic Garden.
One of the main draws is Café Anonymous, where guests may savour gourmet coffee and choose from a locally produced, seasonal fare menu.
Katoomba
Katoomba’s mountains display their creative spirit through handcrafted wool, distinctive stores, and a bohemian vibe throughout the streets. See the striking Three Sisters Tower, which offers an incredible view of Jamison Valley, and enjoy a delightful hot chocolate while touring a gingerbread house.
Take an incredible journey to the bottom of the valley on the world’s steepest train, the Scenic World. Stroll along the rainforest boardwalk or ride the steepest cable car in the southern hemisphere, the Scenic Cableway, to reach the summit.
As a supporter of environmentally friendly travel, Scenic World provides the most incredible opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains. The Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa is a boutique hotel with a well-known spa and a historic English garden that is an excellent option for an opulent stay. Savour dinner at the highly recommended gourmet restaurant Darley’s Restaurant.
Mount Tomah
The 2019 flames have significantly impacted Mount Tomah, the garden city of the Blue Mountains. Despite this, it is strongly advised that you visit this neighbourhood to aid nearby companies in their efforts to recover.
The Blue Mountains Botanical Gardens is one of the main cultural attractions; despite the enormous devastation caused by the fires, visitors may still appreciate the surviving greenery there.
It’s also a must-do experience to visit Potager Mount Tomah, a restaurant renowned for freshly made scones and a charming terrace with a beautiful view of the valley.
Wolgan Valley
Wolgan Valley remains one of the most remote areas of the Blue Mountains, surrounded by high, scrubby cliffs with breathtaking views.
To access the vast expanses of the valley, its sweeping views, and the most remote corners of the region, you need to book a safari in your car. Wolgan Valley Stables offers horse riding courses that will allow you to roam the meadows and valleys in the company of a guide, as shepherds once did.
What to do: Amidst the valley’s meadows is the luxurious five-star Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley, a stay you won’t soon forget.
Bilpin
Bilpin is a city where there are more apples than people. It is a village of mountain orchards. It is next to Tom’s Mountain and can be reached via the Bells Line Road.
Well-known for its Bilpin Cider Co. cider, you may tours both the Cellar Door, where it is created, and the Shed Door, which is Hillbilly Cider’s home.
Go to The Hive to restock delicious Bilpin honey after spending some cash at the Bilpin Apple Pie Cottage Orchard Cafe.
Worth a visit: Discover the rustic idyll of Bilpin Fruit Bowl Farm, which has just reopened after the bushfires. You’ll likely meet the friendly Tadross family and their children, who tend the gardens and stock their charming shop with apple pies and cakes.
FAQ
Which Blue Mountains town is best for first-time visitors?
Glenbrook is a great first stop, with cosy cafés, boutique shops, and family-friendly spots like 2773 Café with a petting zoo.
Where can I enjoy outdoor activities in the Blue Mountains?
Lawson offers the South Lawson Waterfalls Circuit for hiking and the 27km Oaks Trail for cycling.
What is Leura known for?
Leura is famous for its luxury shopping, Everglades House gardens, and the much-loved local candy store.
Which town has the most iconic lookout views?
Medlow Bath is home to the Hydro Majestic Hotel with panoramic views over the Megalong Valley.
Where can I explore the most remote part of the Blue Mountains?
Wolgan Valley offers sweeping views, horse riding tours, and luxury stays at Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley.
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