Where are the Blue Mountains?

The Blue Mountains are World Heritage-Listed for a reason.

Made up of vast mountain ranges, incredible scenery viewed from multiple iconic lookout points, countless bushwalks, caves, historical lakes, lush gardens, small and charming townships with bars, eateries and galleries, and activities for everyone to enjoy, these mountains are not to be overlooked.

Located immediately west of Sydney in New South Wales, the foothills of Blue Mountains National Park are within 50km of the CBD, and therefore are very easily accessible by car, bus and train.

What are the must-sees of the Blue Mountains?

It can be a little overwhelming when you first start researching the Blue Mountains, as there is SO much on offer. Below is a list of what we think are the non-negotiables.

The Three Sisters
• Located near Katoomba, these are large rock formations which are part of Aboriginal history.
• Blue Mountains most famous landmark.

Echo Point
• Best lookout for Three Sisters
• Panoramic, breathtaking views

Featherdale Wildlife Park
• Get up close to Australian wildlife
• Koalas, kangaroos and Australian native flora and fauna

Scenic World
• Located in Katoomba
• Unique experience of 3 different rides
• Worlds steepest aerial cable car
• Scenic cableway
• Scenic Skyway with views of Katoomba Falls
• Scenic 2.4km boardwalk

Jenolan Caves
• Made up of 11 caves, underground rivers and limestone formations
• 340 million years old

The underground caves and tunnels are one of the best parts of the Blue Mountains to explore.

Govetts Leap Lookout (Blackheath)
• Views of Grose Valley
• Steep cliff walls
• Hiking trail to Bridal Veil Falls

Blue Lake
• Man made lake originally created to aid electricity
• Surrounded by lush garden and greenery
• Still, turquoise blue water
• Home to the hard-to-spot platypus

Leura
• Picturesque village of the Blue Mountains
• Home to Leura Garden Festival
• Coffee shops, restaurants and picnic areas
• Golf course (an enviable place to play)

Get the most out of your visit to the Blue Mountains

Since there is so much to do and see so close to Sydney, why not book a tour to make sure you are getting to all the best spots these spectacular mountains have to offer? Tours include access to friendly and informative guides, pick up points throughout Sydney CBD, air-conditioned transport, guided walks, photo opportunities and national park fees.

A 1 Day Blue Mountains Tour will collect travellers from a number of locations in Sydney, take you to Featherdale Wildlife Park, Echo Point and Scenic World. Instead of driving back to the city, things get interesting with a Parramatta River Cruise which ends your tour in Circular Quay or Darling Harbour. You can relax on board and purchase a drink to unwind after a big day of hikes and getting to know some Australia Wildlife.

If time allows, you can also join a tour that includes caves, hikes, the best lookouts and scenery and an overnight stay at Katoomba.

If a beautiful sunset view is one of your simple pleasures, take it to the next level with the Sunset Blue Mountains Tour . Not only will this mean you avoid the busy day crowds, you will be treated to one of the most breathtaking and peaceful moments.

Beginning with a walk that looks over Jamison Valley, you will stop for a bite to eat and then settle in at the Three Sisters lookout to watch the sun go down. The golden glow over the surrounding area will blow you away (have your camera ready), and you may even spot some kangaroos as they begin their evening.

Whether you opt for a tour, or choose to experience this region on your own, be sure to have your walking shoes on and buckle up for a memorable journey through nature.

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.