If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Blue Mountains is the perfect destination. Just two hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains is a stunning natural playground boasting some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes.

From hiking trails that wind through ancient forests and waterfalls cascading down sheer sandstone cliffs to scenic drives that offer panoramic views of the valley below, the Blue Mountains are a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.

Things to know before you go to the Blue Mountains

How to get to The Blue Mountains

Full-day tour – The most convenient and popular way is to book a day tour from Sydney. Many tour providers offer a full-day tour that includes transportation, guided sightseeing, and other activities such as a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park, Scenic World, and the Three Sisters rock formation. 

Train – Alternatively, you can travel to the Blue Mountains from Sydney Central Station. The journey takes around two hours, and the train departs every hour. Once you arrive at the Katoomba station, you can easily explore the town, and its many attractions are located within walking distance from the station. 

Car – f you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take a scenic drive to the Blue Mountains. The drive takes around 90 minutes from the centre of Sydney, and the route is well-signposted. 

Bus – It’s also easy to reach the Blue Mountains by bus, with several bus companies offering services from Sydney.

Weather in The Blue Mountains

The weather in the Blue Mountains region can get cold during the middle of the year (Australia’s winter months), averaging 13° in the day and 6° during the night, while the warmer summer months average around 27° during the day and 16°at night. 

Tipping in Australia

Tipping in Australia is not expected (unless the service is worth the tip), but these are usually for restaurant staff or your tour guide. It is optional but appreciated in some industries like hospitality. 

Visa for Australia

Many countries will need a visa to to enter Australia, so it might be worth checking weeks before your arrival date; you can click here to review. Some countries can get a tourist visa on arrival but again, check with a reputable company or your embassy before you go. 

Insurance

SafetyWing is the world’s first International Travel Medical Insurance developed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and remote workers travelling or living abroad worldwide. I can not recommend travel medical insurance enough! For those who will be away for long periods, live and work abroad or are on a short vacation.

Things to do in the Blue Mountains

Hike the many trails

One of the most popular activities in the Blue Mountains is hiking. There are plenty of hikes to choose from that cater to every fitness level. For those who enjoy a gentle stroll, the Prince Henry Cliff Walk is a relatively easy hike that offers spectacular views of the Jamison Valley.

However, if you’re up for more of a challenge, the Grand Canyon Track is a 6km trek that takes you through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls and deep canyons. If you aren’t confident hiking the trails, then you should book yourself a guide here.

Visit the Three Sisters Lookout 

Another must-do activity in the Blue Mountains is visiting the Three Sisters lookout. The Three Sisters is an iconic rock formation towers over the valley below. The best time to visit is sunset, when the rocks glow a vibrant orange hue.

Ride the Scenic World Cable Car

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Blue Mountains also offers a range of attractions that will keep you entertained. From the Scenic World cable car that takes you on a journey over the valley to the Jenolan Caves, one of the world’s most spectacular cave systems, there is something for everyone in the Blue Mountains.

Enjoy a day of Horse Riding.

What better way to enjoy the surroundings than on a beautiful day out horseriding? This unique experience centre has horse riding facilities set on 2000 acres. Whether you are an experienced rider or something of a novice, they will have a horse that is right for you. Book Megalong Horseriding adventures here.

Browse the shops in Katoomba.

Browse Katoomba and the little cafes and boutiques along the way. In addition, this small country town has a few restaurants, and you will find a few galleries along the way. A great little place to wander around, and you may even pick up a quirky little souvenir or two. 

Book a ticket on the Hop on, Hop off bus.

If you decided to catch the train to the Blue Mountains, then ensure you connect to the Hop on Hop off bus as the full day pass includes – Hop-On Hop-Off Full Day Pass, Scenic World Pass, Scenic Skyway, Scenic Railway, Scenic Walkway, Scenic Cableway, Guide Book with maps, walking guides and Live Commentary.

Admire the magical glow worms.

If you want to visit the Blue Mountains at night, then what better way than to visit the glow worms? Visit these magical creatures in their own habitat on a tour from Sydney.  Glow worms are a rare find and are only found in certain parts of the world, so enjoy this rare experience while you are here.

Toy and Train Museum

The Toy and Train Museum at Leuralla is an exciting collection of antique toys, trains and train station replicas. The grounds of the impressive house are also worth mentioning, as it has been featured in a few movies and tv programs.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking to unwind and connect with nature, the Blue Mountains is the ultimate adventure destination. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and prepare to be awed by the beauty of this incredible region.

Accommodation in the Blue Mountains

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa

Nothing is better than staying in a place that allows you nothing but relaxation whether you spend your entire weekend here! Or it is just to lay your head on a comfortable pillow after spending the day hiking the many trails in the area. The Lilianfels Blue mountain resort and Spa is the perfect place to stay. The rooms here are beautiful, the staff are friendly, and the views from the room are excellent. 

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

Other things you need to know

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