Bordering the metropolitan area of Sydney is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Greater Blue Mountains. Take yourself further from the city and spend a long weekend in the mountains amongst breath-taking landscapes, gorgeous scenery and fresh, clean air. Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary to get you started.
Day 1
Start your day early by making your way to the Blue Mountains - an easy 90-minute drive from Sydney. Alternatively, enjoy a 2-hour train ride from Sydney Central train station to the heart of Katoomba - the main town of the Blue Mountains.
Three Sisters
From Katoomba station, the Echo Point lookout is a 30-minute walk south, making it a fantastic start to your Blue Mountains itinerary. According to local lore, three sisters fell in love with three men from a different tribe but were forbidden by tribal law to marry. In an act of rebellion, the three men captured the sisters by force and declared battle between the tribes. A witchdoctor turned the sisters into stone to protect them from harm but was unfortunately killed during the battle; which left the sisters stranded in their rock formation.
Each standing at over 900 metres tall, the Three Sisters stone structure is the most iconic landmark in the Blue Mountains and from Echo Point, one is served an unobstructed view of the sandstone peaks. For trekking enthusiasts, descend the Giant Stairway to the valley floor and take in a scenic 1.5-hour walk to Katoomba Falls.
Wentworth Falls
Arriving back at Katoomba station, hop on the Blue Mountains Line for a short drive to Wentworth Falls station. From here, embark on the Charles Darwin Walking Track, which takes one on a leisurely stroll along Jamison Creek and past a couple of small waterfalls towards the Wentworth Falls.
At nearly 200 metres tall, the Wentworth Falls flaunts three tiers and is surrounded by a number of impressive lookout points, all offering stunning views of the waterfall. Once back at the Wentworth Falls station, take the time to wander along Station Street, where quaint coffee shops sit between atmospheric lanes, inviting tired passers-by in for a break.
Leura Village
After all that walking, it’s time for something less physically intensive. A short commute on the Blue Mountains Line will take one from Wentworth Falls station to Leura station. Exiting the station, one is immediately greeted by Leura Mall, the main street of rustic Leura Village.
Lined with cherry trees, the street is crammed full of lovely boutiques, vintage toy stores, candle shops, gift shops and several charming cafés. Stop by for dinner, and if you’re still craving for nature, Leura is home to many bush walks and scenic views — Follow the Leura Cascades Walking Track to see the Leura Cascades, a series of small waterfalls promising a lovely photo opportunity.
Day 2
Pack a picnic basket and begin your day with a spectacular sunrise at Pulpit Rock lookout near Blackheath in the Blue Mountains.
Pulpit Rock Lookout
Situated on a large cliff edge, the multi-tiered lookout boasts three viewing platforms spanning different levels, each joined by a walking path with a set of stairs.
Though the Pulpit Rock lookout may be a little out of the way, it’s worth the trek; Gazing out from the lookout, one is offered an almost 360-degree view of the surrounding valleys and mountains. This vantage point is most picturesque at dawn, but alternatively, it’s equally captivating on the cusp of nightfall. Find a sweet spot and settle down after breakfast with a side of panorama, it’s time to start the day proper.
Grand Canyon Walk
First established in 1907, the Grand Canyon Walking Track runs for around 6 kilometres and a great number of hiking enthusiasts had taken it upon themselves to conquer. Renowned for being the “most scenic walking trail in all of the Blue Mountains”, the Grand Canyon Walk takes one through dazzling views, evergreen rainforest and hidden waterfalls.
Make the short drive from Pulpit Rock to Evan’s lookout, which is the recommended starting point of the Grand Canyon Walk. Strolling at a comfortable pace, the next 3 to 4 hours reveals lush foliage, charming creek crossings and lovely bridges — be sure to start your circuit with a full water bottle and if you’ve packed lunch, the Rotunda features a massive overhanging rock - The Balcony - that serves perfectly as a break spot.
Katoomba
The drive from Evan’s lookout parking area to central Katoomba takes less than half an hour. Being the most popular location for travellers visiting the Blue Mountains, Katoomba is much more than just a convenient base for accommodation. The laidback town of Katoomba flourished with a rich history and draped in bohemian vibes, makes exploring the central a riveting activity as well.
Spend a lazy evening sauntering down the lanes of this quaint precinct with a visit to the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre where you admire exhibits adorning the walls of the centre’s art gallery. Along the main street, vintage shops are nestled side by side. For your exhausted feet, cafés are aplenty — Grab a seat and stretch your legs. Enjoy a well-deserved break as you sip on a warm brew and perhaps even have dinner.
Day 3
Jenolan Caves
The finale to your weekend will be an expedition into the Jenolan Caves. From Katoomba, it’s about an hour and a half’s drive to Jenolan Caves. If you’re not driving, return coaches operated by CDC Tours depart at 10:30 am from Carrington Hotel in Katoomba daily and leave Jenolan Caves at 3:30 pm to reach Katoomba by 5 pm.
The Jenolan Caves is the oldest, largest and most acclaimed network of limestone caves in Australia, with 11 of these caves offering guided tours. Popular caves include the Chifley Cave, the River Cave, the Temple of Baal Cave and the Lucas Cave. Beginners are recommended a tour of the stunning Imperial Cave, which houses an underground river and a terrain great for children and the elderly.
Although there are dining options in close proximity to the caves, they do hover at a higher price range due to their accessibility, thus we recommend packing your own food.
Arriving back in Katoomba, dusk is heavy in the sky. Devote the next couple of hours to some last-minute exploration around the alluring town or indulge in your last coffee amidst the charismatic Blue Mountains. Once you’ve taken all the sights in one more time, gather your things — You’re going back to Sydney.
Insider tip:
If time allows, a trip to the Blue Mountains is a must for travellers based in Sydney. Not only is it home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it’s also a breath of fresh air from the hustle of city life. Get your hiking shoes on and head out to fall in love with nature; It’ll be a memorable weekend for sure.
