Perhaps most famous for its iconic Three Sisters rock formation, the Blue Mountains - just 90 minutes from Sydney, Australia - offers a place of incredible scenic landscapes to hike, photograph and explore.
Only 90 minutes’ drive west of Sydney, or an easy two hour train journey, the Blue Mountains offer a scenic, rural contrast to the vibrancy of New South Wales’ capital and Australia’s most populous city.
The main town is Katoomba, which is where most visitors to the area will base their stay. However, alternatives include nearby Leura and the more remote Wolgan Valley, where the luxurious Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is set.
The Blue Mountains area is one million hectares of natural beauty; comprising cliffs, canyons, forests and waterfalls. The area is all about immersing oneself in Australia’s stunning rural beauty, where you can horseback ride alongside kangaroos; explore the Jenolan caves; be taken on a tour into the eucalyptus forests with a local Aboriginal guide; or wander on foot to marvel at the rock formations and waterfalls, such as the Three Sisters (best admired from Echo Point), Katoomba and Wentworth Falls.
For an easier pace, you can ride the Scenic Skyway gondola across Jamison Valley and take a trip on the Scenic Railway, the world’s steepest incline railway; perfect for children who will love the thrill of the 400 metre descent. With its amazing views and rare flora, the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens is a lovely place to spend an afternoon or retreat to an art deco café in Katoomba to write out your postcards.
Our team of Travel Specialists can add a tailor-made Blue Mountains itinerary to your Australia holiday, and suggest the best places to stay.
Nicola
Travel Specialist
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Where to go in Australia
Australia travel information
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- Time zone: +8 GMT
- Flight time: 17 hours - 23 hours
- Recommended airlines: British Airways, Emirates, Qantas, Singapore Airlines
- Currency: Australian Dollar
- Tipping guideline: Optional, but not expected
- Health considerations: No major health risks. There is no risk of yellow fever in Australia, however, yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Capital: Canberra
- Population: 2.66995e+007
- National languages: English
- Electricity and plugs: Type I (V), 230V
- Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage
- UK passport visa requirements: You need a visa for Australia if you have a British passport - apply online
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For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware
