| Blue Mountains Circuit | Short Escape
 A journey to the dramatic scenery and cool, fresh air of the Blue Mountains, where scenic towns and villages offer fine food, cool-climate gardens and shopping for art, antiques and crafts.
From Sydney, head west through the metropolitan area on the M4, passing the Homebush Bay Olympics Site and the historic city of Parramatta before reaching the Great Western Highway and the gradual climb up the mountains. Stop at Glenbrook’s Information Centre before heading to the interesting Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum at Faulconbridge.
At nearby Wentworth Falls you can visit a historic house, view the waterfall from Falls Reserve, and enjoy some spectacular bushwalks.Continue on the highway to the charming village of Leura, with its crafts shops, cafes, gardens, the Leuralla Toy and Railway Museum and a wonderful panorama from Sublime Point. The spectacular Cliff Drive leads to Katoomba, the area’s largest town and home of Echo Point, with a breathtaking view over the forested Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters rock formation. Katoomba offers plenty of attractions, including the Scenic Skyway and Scenic Railway, shops, and some great cafes.
Further west, visit Blackheath’s National Parks Heritage Centre, close to Govetts Leap Lookout and more wonderful views. From here, there’s an optional trip into the Megalong Valley - a great venue for horse riding - or continue to the small village of Mount Victoria, the starting point for another side-trip to the fantastic subterranean world of Jenolan Caves.
Our circular route then takes you along the Bells Line of Road. You can detour a few kilometres west to ride on the famous Zig Zag Railway, or drive east to visit the unique garden village of Mount Wilson and the Mount Tomah Botanic Garden - an absolute must - before returning to Sydney.
Where to Stay
Time required: 2 days minimum or 3-4 days if you intend to visit the Megalong Valley and Jenolan Caves | | |
|
