The Blue Mountains are a magical destination, full of sensational views, huge waterfalls, atmospheric canyons, some of the country’s best hiking and lots of relaxing activities too. Although we are outdoor adventure lovers at heart, we haven’t skimped with the easy going must-do’s. You’ll find a variety of things on this list: from a winery with jaw-dropping views, to the world’s steepest railway, Aboriginal rock art sites, amazing picnic spots, hidden glow worm dells and more.
If you came to us for the adventure then you won’t be disappointed either. We’re sharing secret spots to take you far beyond any other guide you’ll find on the internet.
We spent the past few years exploring the area to put this guide together and will continue updating it over time - the Blue Mountains are basically our second home!
How to make the most out of visiting the Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains is a UNESCO World Heritage site, covering over 11,000 square kilometres, and starts just 50km west of Sydney’s CBD.
Most people tend to think of the Blue Mountains as the towns on the Great Western Highway such as Katoomba, Blackheath and Wentworth Falls. However, this huge region also has plenty of incredible experiences north of here, on the Bells Line of Road that goes through Bilpin, Mount Wilson and even as far as Lithgow.
This is why our guide to the Blue Mountains is so big - there is just so much to do here! The diversity of things to do, as well as the hundreds of hidden gems, make this one of our favourite places in the world.
It’s worth bearing in mind that the distances between attractions can sometimes be quite big and getting between the northern and southern parts can take a while - you’ll need to factor in journey time if trying to cover several places in one go.
So without further ado, here’s our guide to the 51 best things to do in the Blue Mountains without a tour.
51 Great things to do in the Blue Mountains without a tour
(in no particular order)
1. Take a stroll through the other worldly Dry Canyon
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to enter the other worldly environment of a slot canyon - but thought it only possible for abseilers - then this one is for you!
Dry Canyon is absolutely beautiful and a stroll beneath the towering sandstone walls is an opportunity not to be missed.
The best part? It’s a walk-in canyon which is generally easy, with just one short scramble, making it well within most people’s comfort zone.
Here are all the details on the walk, including exactly how to get there as it isn’t signposted.
2. See a platypus in the wild!
Platypus are known as being incredibly elusive; speak to most Aussies and they will say that despite trying, they are yet to spot one in the wild.
That’s what makes this reliable spot in the Blue Mountains all the more remarkable.
Platypus live in the gorgeous Blue Lake beside Jenolan Caves House and are regularly spotted here. We have never failed to see them! You only have to walk for a minute and then wait quietly.
You are very unlikely to get lucky during the day, so you’ll want to time your visit for dawn or dusk. For this reason we recommend staying at the atmospheric old Caves House, which is a fun experience in itself.
All our platypus watching tips, and other spots we’ve seen them are in this post.
3. Take a dip at the bottom of the gorgeous Minnehaha Falls
Minnehaha Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all the Blue Mountains. The small pool of emerald water sits at the base of the stunning waterfall and is surrounded by huge sandstone cliff walls.
The result is a secluded swimming spot that is really hard to beat.
The short walk to get there is easy, although there are a couple of steep staircases to negotiate. Even if you don’t want to swim, it’s well worth going just to look at.
You can read our full guide to Minnehaha Falls here.
4. Visit one of NSW’s most beautiful wineries
Even the drive to Dryridge Estate is an absolute delight. The moment you walk down the steps and onto the terrace you are going to be blown away.
The view of the Megalong Valley and surrounding mountains is just spectacular.
The wine is also great, we particularly loved the Eva (Chardonnay). Tastings are $15 per person and include seven different wines. If you don’t fancy a tasting you can order a bottle of wine and a cheese plate, which is what we’ll do next time, because there definitely will be a next time!
If all of that isn’t enough there are two adorable winery dogs which will come and play with you if you give them half a chance! : )
5. Sit on top of the Ruined Castle
The views from the top of Ruined Castle are some of our favourites in all the Blue Mountains.
The walk to get there is just as good, taking you through a glorious stretch of forest with the most lyrebirds we have ever seen in our lives!
It’s a straightforward fairly easy walk until the very last steps when you have to climb up a couple of boulders to the top of the castle.
It’s not difficult, but the top of the castle might not be for you if you suffer from vertigo. Here’s our in-depth guide to Ruined Castle with full details on the scramble to the top.
6. Admire the honeycomb walls of Wind Eroded Cave
Wind Eroded Cave is a giant overhang with honeycomb walls that shine a deep golden in the late afternoon light. It’s just a 100m walk to get there, yet it’s one of those spots that few people seem to know about.
You can climb up into the cave and admire the fabulous views over the Grose Valley. It’s particularly lovely at sunset, which you can watch from inside the overhang, or walk up the small hill behind the cave for an uninterrupted view.
7. Stroll under the stars on the Katoomba Night Walk
The Katoomba Night Walk allows you to see some of the Blue Mountains most iconic features, including the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls, after dark.
Floodlights illuminate the falls and rock formations, and spotlights show you the way along the picturesque forested path.
If you visit on a clear evening you will also be treated to an amazing starry night sky, which is incredibly atmospheric.
It’s a very easy walk and suitable for anyone who can manage a couple of staircases. All the details, including the route and when the lights are in operation are in this post.
8. Marvel at the ancient Aboriginal rock art of Maiyingu Marragu
Maiyingu Marragu (Blackfellows Hand Cave) contains some of the best preserved Aboriginal rock art (known to the public) in the Blue Mountains.
You can see the distinct black hand stencils and a couple of other things too - we thought we identified boomerangs - on the underside of a ginormous overhang. The site is of particular importance to the Wiradjuri people who used it as a meeting and educational place.
It’s one of those thought provoking places, and we found ourselves drawn to sit quietly on one of the logs in front of the cave for quite some time.
The walk to get to the cave only takes around five minutes, but has some stairs to climb and gets a bit rockier towards the end.
9. Channel your inner Indiana Jones at Goochs Crater
Goochs Crater is a fun off the beaten track hike in Newnes. This natural depression is surrounded by oodles of pagodas and little caves, and the lack (read no) signposting allows you to create your own adventure.
The setting is dramatic and a little exploration will lead you to stunning views before you descend to the floor of the crater and make your way around the base.
It’s not a difficult walk but does require a little bush bashing at times.
The only downside to this spot is that you need a high clearance car to reach it as the road is in poor shape. All of the details on our visit to the crater and what to expect are in this post.
10. While away an afternoon at Bilpin Cider
Bilpin Cider is more than just a place to go cider tasting, it’s a destination in its own right.
Grab one of their picnic blankets, a hamper of food, a couple of bottles of cider and relax under a tree in the pretty garden. There’s even an alpaca farm for the kids!
If you want to do more of a tasting you can buy a paddle of four ciders, and there are a couple of non alcoholic options (try the apple and ginger!) for the designated drivers.
It’s one of our favourite things to do in Bilpin.
11. Test your nerve on the ladder up to Coxs Cave
A tall ladder leads up the fern covered cliff and into a dark narrow overhang, it could be something straight out of a movie! It’s definitely one of my favourite short adventures in the area.
Ladders like this always bring me a sense of childlike joy, maybe it’s because I’ve been climbing ladders since I was a little kid going into the loft with my dad!
I actually wanted to do this short walk more for the ladder than the cave itself, although when I got there, the cave was just as fun.
It’s a fabulous overhang, with great lofty views over the mountains and above the treetops. It’s just you and the birds up there!
You can read all about how to get there and what to expect here.
12. Ride the world’s steepest railway
The railway at Scenic World takes you from the valley floor to the cliff tops in no time. The second half feels almost impossibly steep, especially if you set your chair to ‘cliffhanger’, a 64 degree incline!
As well as the railway, there are two cable cars which offer stupendous valley views, without the need to work up a sweat on one of the big hikes.
On the valley floor there is an excellent easy walkway (all boardwalk) around the rainforest, which is another great place to spot lyrebirds.
You can also use the railway as a one way ticket up from the valley floor to the cliff tops, great if you want to do some hiking but dread the climb up one of the steep staircases at the end.
13. See 7 spectacular waterfalls on one walk
There are two ways you can experience seven gorgeous waterfalls on one walk: the first is via the easier and well maintained Valley of the Waters Track and the second is via the Wentworth Pass.
Hiking lovers who don’t mind a steep climb should opt for the latter, although both are wonderful walks.
The Wentworth Pass takes you down a path cut into the cliffside before the descent steepens again, this time on caged staircases referred to as ladders by the National Parks signposts.
It’s an exciting and seriously beautiful walk that takes you all the way to the base of Wentworth Falls, where you can paddle in the small pool at the base. All of the details on what to expect on the track are here.
14. Visit one of Mount Wilson’s glorious gardens
Mount Wilson is a very special place. The small village has no restaurants or cafes, or even an ATM, but what it does have are many wonderful gardens.
A few are open year round, but most choose only to open at the most picturesque times of year: autumn and spring.
As the gardens have many European trees you can experience fall colours as dazzling as displays in other parts of the world.
The most popular garden is Breenhold, but other smaller gardens are every bit as beautiful and don’t attract the same crowds.
We have a whole guide on autumn in Mount Wilson and will add a spring guide soon.
15. Go for a swim in paradise
We mean this quite literally, as the name of one of our favourite swimming holes in the mountains, is Paradise Pool.
The pool is large and deep and there is a tiny sandy beach to access it from - no slippery rocks to negotiate here.
A small but very pretty waterfall cascades into the water and the ferny cliffs complete the serene setting. A swim here is as good as it gets - that is if you don’t mind cold water!
The walk to get there is short, but a little rough in places. We detail it here.
16. See thousands of glow worms in the day time!
Walking through the 400m long Glow Worm Tunnel is a truly memorable experience. Even the tunnel entrance is atmospheric, surrounded by giant ferns, and that’s before you’ve set foot in the tunnel itself.
Once inside, turn off all light (it harms the glow worms), let your eyes adjust and marvel at thousands of tiny blue lights covering the tunnel wall and ceiling.
It’s a short easy walk to reach the tunnel via the quickest route, although we prefer the longer track if time allows. All of our tips for getting the most out of your Glow Worm Tunnel experience are in this post.
17. Check out the sensational view from Lincoln’s Rock
Lincoln’s Rock is one of our favourite sunset spots in the mountains. The uninterrupted view is of mountains and forest as far as the eye can see and the sunset happens directly in front of you.
The large rocky plateau has plenty of room to spread out, so even on a weekend you can find your own little spot.
The rock that juts out is a very popular photo spot for those who are comfortable with heights.
You can also visit the little cave which provides wonderful framing for Mount Solitary and is at its best at sunset. It takes just a minute to walk to Lincoln’s Rock from the car park.
18. Indulge at the fantastic Blackheath Farmers Market
The Blackheath Growers Market is only on once a month (on the second Sunday) but if you time your visit to coincide with it, you won’t be disappointed. It’s one of the best markets we’ve visited in NSW, and we’ve been to quite a few now.
You know it’s going to be good when locals come out with arms full of local produce, and there are constant lines for the food stalls.
There are also things like candles and aromatherapy oils, but mainly people are here for the food!
There’s a coffee van too, so do as the locals do and come for brekkie!
19. Take the plunge at the slot canyon waterfall!
This has to be one of the most unique waterfalls in the Blue Mountains, flowing straight into a narrow canyon!
Limited light shines through the top of the canyon, which creates a dark and mysterious air. If you do want to take a dip, it’s surprisingly deep but not very wide, so it’s definitely a plunge pool and not a swimming spot.
It’s located off the Porters Pass Track but if you don’t want to do the whole walk you can access it more quickly from Centennial Glen Road, which is only around a 500m walk each way.
The walk is easy but you do need to negotiate one small narrow ledge to get there.
20. Try the local brew at Katoomba’s own brewery
Mountain Culture is a great place to stop in for a locally brewed craft beer and a burger after a great day out exploring. It’s a cool warehouse type vibe and there’s a terrace for warmer evenings.
Joe’s tried a few of the beers now and rates them highly (especially if you like your IPAs) and the food is good too. If you only want a snack, then don’t go past the nuts which they roast themselves and are totally addictive. Dine in is Thursday to Sunday only.
It’s one of our top recommends for things to do in Katoomba.
21. Walk over the picturesque Dargan Arch
Dargan Arch is a photogenic sandstone arch and a great hidden gem in a lesser visited part of the Blue Mountains.
It’s not signposted or well known, which is quite a surprise because it’s only a 15 minute walk!
You can stroll right over the arch as well as scramble down to the bottom, which is recommended if you don’t mind the lack of formed track. The views are great from every angle and photographers will find it a delight.
Exact coordinates for where to park and instructions to find the arch are in this post.
22. Walk the mountains best loved trail
The Grand Canyon is loved by hikers and non hikers alike. I couldn’t even tell you how many times we’ve walked this trail and it still wows us every time.
It’s a truly awe-inspiring place, with tall cliff walls, giant ferns, crystal clear creeks and waterfalls that spring to life after rain.
It’s the kind of walk that will impress even your pickiest friend! It does have a couple of steep climbs, but it’s all on well maintained track, so it’s a case of taking your time if you’re not usually a walker.
You can read our full trail guide, which includes a big secret about the track here.
23. Check out the historic Knapsack Bridge
The fantastic Knapsack Bridge (constructed in the 1860’s) towers over a small patch of rainforest which gives it a unique feel. It’s an impressive sight, and something a little different to see in the mountains.
The walk to get there is short and easy, although it does involve climbing a few staircases. It’s not in the national park making it a great dog friendly walk too.
If you love Knapsack Bridge, it’s just a 10 minute drive from Lennox Bridge, the oldest stone bridge on mainland Australia.
It was built by convicts in 1832 and is well worth stopping by if you like a bit of local history. There is no walking required to reach it.
24. Catch a sunrise from Govetts Leap
There’s nothing like watching the sun rise and slowly bathe the mountains in an ethereal golden light. The view from Govetts Leap is special at any time of day, but at sunrise it is out of this world.
If you’re really lucky you might even be treated to a spectacular cloud inversion.
It’s one of the most popular lookouts in all the Blue Mountains, but if you go for sunrise you are likely to share it only with one or two photographers - and maybe not even that if you’re there on a week day.
It’s definitely the best way to start the day.
26. Climb the historic Giant Staircase
Constructed in the early 1900’s the Giant Stairway takes you from the valley floor to the picturesque Honeymoon Bridge over the course of 900 steep steps (we think it’s actually more, but that’s what the sign says!).
It’s a mixture of staircases and steps hewn into the side of the cliff and there are plenty of views (and benches!) worth stopping at along the way.
There are various routes you can tackle the staircase from, our favourite is via the Dardanelles Pass, taking you through rainforest gullies and past multiple cascades.
The quick way would be just to walk from Echo Point and do a straight down and up.
27. View the world’s largest private collection of teapots!
I had no idea just how many different kinds of teapots existed in the world until I saw 5,500 of them at the Bygone Beautys Museum.
There’s everything from the incredibly ornate, to ones which are guaranteed to make you smile or raise an eyebrow.
And when you’re done enjoying the museum you can make you way to the tearoom for a Devonshire cream tea.
The tea menu is enormous and the scones were some of the best we’ve tried in Australia!
28. Explore the wild and wonderful Glenbrook Gorge
Glenbrook Gorge is such an incredible place, and we can never believe our luck when we get it to ourselves on a sunny day in summer!
Just a short walk away Jellybean Pool will be heaving, yet Glenbrook Gorge remains blissfully quiet. Swimming in the river surrounded by tall cliffs and giant boulders always feels like an absolute dream.
You can make the walk as adventurous as you like, as the further through the gorge you go the more unmaintained and wild it gets.
If you just want a leisurely walk there are plenty of places to swim around 1km along. Here’s our guide to Glenbrook Gorge for more details.
29. Have a picnic with a view
You really are spoilt for choice when it comes to picnic spots in the mountains. There are are lots of dedicated picnic areas you can drive right up to, but these tend to be busy and less scenic. Instead we recommend taking a short walk and finding your own secluded spot.
Our top choices would be a lookout along the Castle Head Track in Narrow Neck (a 1.2km walk each way) or Lyrebird Dell in Leura (5 minute walk each way) which has a picnic bench under a big overhang, which had been a shelter for local Aboriginal people for over 12,000 years.
30. Hunt for Dr Darks Cave
How can you resist a name like that? And it’s every bit as exciting as it sounds.
The cave was used as a summer camp by Doctor Dark and his family in the 1930’s and 40’s and some of their possessions are still right there where they left them!
We’re talking pots and pans, an old axe and even some bedding. It’s a really intriguing spot and a must for lovers of the unusual.
We have all the details on finding the cave here. Please leave it as you found it, some people have added a few things over the years which is a bit disappointing.
31. Stroll the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden
The garden is lovely year round, but especially so in spring when the fragrance of thousands of flowers fill the air, and at times you feel like someone is walking ahead of you spritzing perfume. It’s wonderful!
It’s not just a beautiful garden either, there are also some great views out to the mountains which makes it a little bit special.
You could easily spend half a day here, but it’s worth coming even if you only have limited time, and in that case stick to the area around the Jurassic Garden.
32. Enter the secret world of River Caves Canyon
As you walk between darkness and light, you’ll be in awe of the swirling rock formations that make up the top of the towering canyon walls.
It’s captivating, it’s easy access, it’s in the Blue Mountains, and yet no one talks about it!
Exploring this natural wonder does involve getting wet, so you’ll want to save it for warmish weather, unless cold water doesn’t bother you.
The canyon is not signposted but we have a step to step guide on how to get there. It’s a wilderness area so please read our safety advice in the linked post before heading out.
33. Find the best viewpoints of the iconic Wentworth Falls
You’d think the best view of the falls would be the one called Wentworth Falls Lookout, right?! But that’s actually the worst view, in fact you can barely see it!
There are numerous great viewpoints for the falls if you’re prepared to walk just a little further. The best in our opinion is Rocket Point (2.4km return) but Fletchers Lookout is also great and roughly 1km shorter.
You can read more about the viewpoints and other great things to do in the area, not mentioned in this post, here.
34. Feel the magic at one of the mountains secret glow worm colonies
There is nothing like looking up at the sky and wondering where the glow worms stop and the stars begin. It’s magic. And you’ll almost always have them all to yourself.
It’s easily one of my favourite things about the mountains. In fact, discovering glow worm dells that didn’t exist on the internet made my whole 2020!
There’s a glow worm dell suitable for everyone, from very easy walks, to those that are a bit longer and more challenging. You can see the ones we’ve found so far here.
Please read all the etiquette surrounding visiting the glow worms, there are many ways we can inadvertently kill them and we would be devastated if another Helensburgh Tunnel situation happened.
35. Get a free fish pedicure at Victoria Falls
If you’re ticklish this is not one for you, but for everyone else head to Victoria Creek Cascades for a bit of R&R.
It might be a steep walk to get there but your reward is the chance to swim - and get a free fish pedicure - at a truly breathtaking waterfall. And just a little further along the trail is yet another waterfall, no fish this time but definitely still worth checking out : )
You can find all the details about the walk and waterfalls here.
36. Have a drink with a view
The Conservation Hut has one of the best cafe views in the mountains yet it’s still reasonably priced. We’ll admit we don’t love their coffee, but pop in for tea, cold drinks or even a glass of wine and enjoy the views over the Jamison Valley from the terrace.
It’s one of our favourite places to enjoy a drink in the sunshine, or if it’s colder weather, they also have a fireplace.
If you’re doing one of the steeper hikes around Wentworth Falls then those drinks will taste even better!
37. Hike to see the epic Hanging Rock
The walk to reach Hanging Rock is pretty mundane, yet it still made our best walks in the Blue Mountains list and that’s because Hanging Rock is magnificent.
When a view is this good, you forgive the fire trail walk immediately.
It’s at its most photogenic at sunrise, although we’ve yet to make it out there so early. If you also don’t like the idea of a 5.5km walk in the wee hours, then we’d recommend sunset.
The light isn’t as good but it’s still stunning, and much softer than going in the middle of the day.
38. Say hello to the wild roos of the Euroka Campground
If you’re looking for a reliable spot to see kangaroos in the wild then Euroka Campground in Glenbrook is a great choice.
We have a 100% success rate when we come in the late afternoon (early morning is also a good bet). You tend to find them in the fields at the side of the road as you drive in and then also around the campground itself.
We have a whole guide on the best places to see wild kangaroos close to Sydney, which includes another spot in the Blue Mountains.
39. Visit one of the best Aboriginal rock art sites close to Sydney
Thought to be close to 1600 years old, Red Hands Cave was a ceremonial cave that was used for the initiation of young warriors. The inside is covered in red, white and orange hand prints from both adults and children and many are remarkably well preserved.
It’s quite a dark cave and always deserted which gives it an almost eerie feel. Unfortunately there is a metal fence covering the site for its protection, but you can still see it really well and get photos through the grilling.
You can get here via the walking track from Jellybean Pool, which is just under 8km or via a much shorter walk of roughly 1km from the Oaks Trail (an unsealed road). We’ve always done the former and it’s a great walk.
40. Be wowed by the most famous viewpoint of them all
Echo Point has without a doubt, the best view of the beloved Three Sisters rock formation and it only requires a one minute walk to reach. It really is a wow factor view and one that never loses its magic.
We love our secret spots and off the beaten track adventures, but we also never go past the big ticket items. It might be the busiest lookout you’ll visit but it’s one not to be missed.
Plus the new viewing platforms have dispersed most of the crowding anyway.
41. Delight in the best rainy day adventure
When you think about rainy days in the mountains you probably think about cosying up somewhere warm, but we’re here to tell you to save that for the evening.
There’s never a better time to go chasing waterfalls than during a period of rain.
The South Lawson Waterfall Circuit is an easy walk of just 3km and takes you to five fab waterfalls. And those waterfalls are only fab after rain. In dry periods they often disappear entirely, or are reduced to mere trickles.
We have all the details including track conditions when it’s wet (honestly not too bad!) in this post.
42. Experience Melbourne vibes in the heart of Katoomba
It’s entirely unexpected but the street art of Katoomba’s Beverly Place wouldn’t look out of place in Melbourne’s Hosier Lane. And unlike Hosier Lane it’s a bit of a hidden gem which you are unlikely to share with anyone else.
Although you could walk though in just a few minutes, linger a while and you are guaranteed to notice much more than you’ll see at first glance.
43. Soak up the tranquility of the Cathedral of Ferns
As a self confessed fern lover, as soon as I saw the name of this short walk I knew it was going to be for me. It’s an easy 15 minute stroll through hundreds and hundreds of ferns and the shady forest canopy makes it a great option for a hot day.
It’s incredibly relaxing and if when the 15 minutes is over it’s got you wanting more, you can head down the road to the short Waterfall Walk which has more ferny goodness.
If you are very lucky and manage to coincide your visit with firefly season (usually end of November, early December) you will be in for a real treat.
44. Admire Katoomba Falls from every angle
Katoomba Falls is a beauty, especially after some good rain. The best views of the falls are found on the short and easy Katoomba Round Walk.
If you do the slightly longer version (a 3km loop) then you will also get to see the upper falls close up, (the rest of the viewpoints are all from the cliff tops).
It’s one of the best easy walks in the mountains as not only do you get epic views of Katoomba Falls, but also of the Jamison Valley and the Katoomba Cascades.
Here’s a list of each Katoomba Falls viewpoint and how long the walk is to get there.
45. Indulge in a cream tea at the Megalong Valley Tearooms
The Megalong Valley Tearooms whip up a delicious cream tea and you can enjoy it from the garden overlooking the rolling farmland of the Megalong Valley.
The scones are soft and fluffy, the blackberry jam is homemade and the tea is great too.
The cream loving magpies will entertain you, as the moment a table is vacated they will swoop and start lapping up as much as they can before the table is cleaned.
The tearooms offer other food too although we haven’t put it to the taste test.
46. Explore the hidden caverns of Bushrangers Cave
Bushrangers Cave is another real gem, close to Coxs Cave, and combining the two makes for a perfect day out. There’s a bit of a scramble up into the cave, but it’s not difficult and only takes a minute.
Once inside you’ll need a torch to penetrate the depths of the cave and the hidden caverns above (access requires climbing an old but stable-ish ladder).
However, our favourite thing about the cave is actually the unusually shaped opening which provides a wonderful frame for the mountains beyond.
There are two ways to reach the cave, both of which are detailed here.
47. Wander the grounds of the historic Everglades House
The pretty grounds of Everglades House are a great place for a relaxed stroll, especially when the autumn colours are in full swing (spring would also be a lovely time to go).
The garden has some fantastic views out to Mount Solitary and they welcome you to bring a picnic in, which we’d highly recommend to make the most of you visit.
You can also visit the house itself, built in the 1930’s, where there are some great original features, although not too much in the way of furniture left. You can read more in our Leura guide.
48. Enjoy the relaxing Leura Cascades
Leura Cascades have long been a favourite with picnickers and those who fancy a gentle amble through the shady forest. You pass a series of cascades which are particularly special after rain.
Our favourite spot for photographing the cascades is the little lookout point at the overhang. Although there is some flood debris in front of the cascades nowadays, it still looks absolutely beautiful. There’s a great valley lookout a minute beyond this point too.
Current access to the cascades is a bit of a pain due to closure of the main track, however you can take a longer route via the Prince Henry Cliff Track, or the trail from Jersey Avenue.
We have a detailed guide to the cascades plus two additional gorgeous waterfalls along the same track here.
49. Treat yourself to the Blue Mountains best hot chocolate
The hot chocolate from the Blue Mountains Chocolate Company is the kind where you get real chocolate, hot milk and a candle to melt it yourself. It is sinfully good. And best of all they always give you too much chocolate so you get to take a bit home with you too!
It’s open until 6pm, which is far later than other cafes, so it’s perfect for a post hike treat.
50. Catch a sunset from Boars Head
The Boars Head Climbing Area is a sunset spot to remember. The views over Narrow Neck and the Jamison Valley are just fantastic and you’ll also get to see the unusual Boars Head rock formation, a popular rock climbing spot.
It takes around five minutes to walk to and there is plenty of room to sit, relax and enjoy the show. Just make sure you bring an extra layer, even in summer, because unless you get lucky this area is very windy!
If you love the lookouts we’ve mentioned so far, then we have over 20 other incredible spots in this post.
51. Watch fireflies dance through the night sky
We've added this one as a bonus at the end of the post because it's only possible to witness this spectacle for three weeks a year. If you happen to get lucky and are around in November/December, then it may just be the most magical experience of them all.
Watch in wonder as flashes of gold fill the night sky for approximately 1-1.5 hours each evening. It's a true delight to witness and several good firefly spots also happen to be home to glow worms too, so it's a bioluminescence lover's dream!
All the details on where and when to find the fireflies are here.
Where to stay in the Blue Mountains
In terms of location most things on this list are easily accessible from any of the main villages including Katoomba, Blackheath, Leura and Wentworth Falls. A few of the activities are closer to Bilpin and Lithgow.
We have a full guide on our favourite places to stay here, and we’ll add a few suggestions below for a quick glance.
Whispering Pines Chalet and Cottages - self catering in Wentworth Falls
The Whispering Pines have rooms as well as cottages scattered around the Wentworth Falls area. We stayed with my parents in Apple Blossom Cottage and found it really cute and cosy. There is a full kitchen so we could self cater and three decent sized bedrooms.
It doesn’t have the views of Ironstone Views in Katoomba but it did have a lovely cottage feel. We highly recommend it for anyone looking for a homely Blue Mountains Cottage to stay in.
It is also minutes away from some of our favourite walks in the area, including the National Pass. As with Ironstone this is a good option if there are at least four of you staying.
Check prices for Whispering Pines on:
Ironstone Views - self catering in Katoomba
This is the house that we booked as a surprise for Joe’s parents when they came to stay.
We chose it for the views and we weren’t disappointed. it allowed us to cook all our meals in the well equipped kitchen and it also had a huge jacuzzi bath.
There’s a BBQ on the terrace and a cosy fire if you’re visiting in winter. The downside to this place which didn’t come across in the photos was that some parts of it including some furniture was a bit tired.
Overall we all really enjoyed it though and would recommend it if there are at least four of you to split the cost.
Check prices on for Ironstone Views on:
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