Experiencing the Three Sisters from Echo Point

Experiencing the Three Sisters from Echo Point

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 08/22/2017

Reading time: 3 mins

Undoubtably the most recognisable sight in all of the Blue Mountains which promises iconic views of this extraordinary landscape!

The Blue Mountains sprawls out in a flurry of soft greenery and dipping valleys, providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney. Throughout the region’s rolling mountains and velvet green valleys, there are plenty of exceptional lookout points that promise breath-taking views across some of Australia’s most incredible scenery. One of the top lookouts is the legendary Echo point, famous for being the perfect viewing point to see the iconic natural structure of the Three Sisters.

About the Three Sisters

The Three Sister comprise of three sandstone peaks, stretching 900 metres above the Jamison Valley. The rock formation was created 300 million years ago, when the region undergoing massive movements in the earth’s crust, which lead to the entire area to be buried in seawater. The continuous streams of ocean water carried large amounts of sediment, which sunk to the sea floor in thick layers. These layers eventually formed into hard ridges and sharp shapes that later became the rock formations we know today.

The formation is a significant landmark, listed as one of the most important Indigenous sights in the region. It even has a famous Dreamtime Story which describes its formation, and although it is different from the geological explanation, it is a lot more interesting. The legend says that the rocks were once three beautiful sisters named Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo. It was said the stunning sisters fell madly in love with three neighbouring men from a different clan, which was forbidden under tribal law. The brothers set out to take the women away from their tribe, which led to a war to begin. The sister’s witchdoctor decided to help them, transforming the women into lrge rocks to hide them from the war’s dangers. Sadly, the witchdoctor was killed during battle, leaving no one to transform the girls back to humans. Forever remaining on the edge of the cliff, standing mournfully high above the Jamison Valley.

About Echo Point

The lookout teeters on the edge of the escarpment in Katoomba, boasts stunning views of the ancient Jamison Valley and jagged clifftops. Here, you can not only look out onto one of the area’s most fascinating natural wonders, but you can take a number of fascinating walks through the lush undergrowth that surrounds it. There is an easy path that takes you to the Three Sisters, or, for a more difficult adventure, try the route that takes you to the Giant Stairway, and descend down 1,000 stairs to the valley floor below.

The Three Sisters is best viewed from Echo Point, which sits on a plateau above it. From there, you can marvel at the stunning display of nature, as well as gaze out at the lush carpet of the Jamison Valley, the Ruined Castle, and the mesmerising peak of Mount Solitary.

The Blue Mountains offer plenty of activities for visitors to get stuck into, but if you want to experience the spectacular Three Sisters monument in the best way, head to Echo Point for breath-taking views and the chance to learn more about this fascinating natural wonder and how it came to be such an important part of the Blue Mountains landscape.

While there, pop into the Visitor Centre to discover other activities you can get stuck into, and try out one of the many walks that weave their way through the surrounding scenery.

Related article: Dream Time Story of the 3 Sisters in the Blue Mountains

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.