Visit New South Wales

WORLD HERITAGE REGION AND HOME OF THE THREE SISTERS
Gumtrees, gorges, waterfalls and walks: the stunning World Heritage scenery is just one reason why the Blue Mountains attracts scores of visitors each year. However, there's more to the region than just drinking in the view: lovers of action sports can enjoy cayoning, abseiling or rock climbing, and arty types will get lost in the many galleries and craft shops.

> The cosy cafes and award-winning restaurants are a foodie's dream, and there's accommodation to suit any budget. If you have time, venture further beyond Leura or Katoomba to the natural wonders of Wollemi National Park, or the labyrinth of limestone grottos and caverns at Jenolan Caves.

For more information, go to:
www.visitnsw.com.au
www.bluemountainstourism.org.au

FAMOUS FOR...

The unique haze surrounding the mountains is where they get their name.

Those misty mountains. The blue haze that the region is actually named for is created by the evaporation of oil from the eucalyptus trees into the air.

Risqué artist Norman Lindsay. Lindsay lived in Springwood from 1912-1969, and his home is now a gallery and museum. An insight into the artist's life was portrayed in the Aussie film Sirens (1994), which starred Elle McPherson and Portia de Rossi.

The Three Sisters. The scenic Cliff Drive from Leura to Katoomba leads you to Echo Point, the best spot to find breathtaking views of the Three Sisters rock formation, Mt Solitary and the Jamison Valley.

Yulefest. If you've ever wanted to celebrate Christmas in July, here's your chance. During the winter festival season (June-Aug), guest houses, lodges and hotels across the region go to town on the turkey dinners, plum puddings and carol singing.

DID YOU KNOW...?

There are views in the region which you'll only share with the birds. You'll never forget your first peek at the sheer cliffs and heart-stopping beauty of the Kanangra Walls Plateau, only minutes from the world-famous Jenolan Caves.
If you don't have long to explore, don't miss Wentworth Falls, or a quick trip on the Sceniscender at Scenic World in Katoomba. This 545m cable car ride takes you to the bottom of the Jamieson Valley, with superb views of the Three Sisters and Mt Solitary on the way down. The more adventurous might like a ride on the Scenic Railway, the world's steepest incline railway.
You'll be seduced by that starry, starry night feeling at the much-hyped 400m Glow Worm Tunnel. It's in the Newnes State Forest, north of Lithgow.
Marked trails indicate bushwalks throughout the region, and there are walks to suit any fitness level, ranging from several minutes to several days. Maps are available from the Visitor Information Centre.
The Blue Mountains hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including Feburary's Folk Festival and the Six Foot Track Festival in March – a 42km run from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves. In Spring (September through November), private gardens are open for visitors during the Garden Festival.

Images

To download this copyright free image click here or register now for more media exclusive images.

Climate

At an average altitude of 1000 metres above sea level, the air here is fresh and clean and the nights crisp. You might be lucky enough to enjoy some light snow between June to August.

For cool, crisp yet comfortable temperatures, October to March is an ideal time to visit.

Distance from Sydney

The Blue Mountains' central hub, Katoomba, is 110km (69miles) west from Sydney and takes approximately two hours. From Parramatta Road, take the Western Motorway (M4) at Strathfield.

Or, for a more scenic route divert from the Great Western Highway north-west onto the Cumberland Highway to Windsor Road. From Windsor, take the Richmond Rd, which becomes the Bells Line of Road.

<%WebTrafficCode ("Regions/blue mountains")%>