 Day 1: SYDNEY - KATOOMBA
On your way, why not visit some of Sydney's Western Suburbs attractions? Founded just a few months after Sydney in 1788, Parramatta is Australia's second oldest city. There are many historic buildings here, and you can take a pleasant riverside walk. Beyond Parramatta lies Wonderland Sydney - an exciting theme and wildlife park that kids (and adults too!) will love. The lower Blue Mountains region contains several small towns and attractions like the Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum. Information on the region can be obtained from the Blue Mountains Information Centre in Glenbrook.
Continue on the Great Western Highway via the town of Wentworth Falls - home of a lake, a beautiful waterfall and some particularly scenic mountain lookouts, then onto Leura. Leura has a picturesque main street that's full of cafés and gift shops, and several delightful gardens - the best of which is Everglades.
From Leura, follow the scenic Cliff Drive to nearby Katoomba for breathtaking views of the forested Jamison Valley and a close-up look at the famous Three Sisters formation.
Overnight in Katoomba
Day 2: KATOOMBA - JENOLAN CAVES - LITHGOW
There's plenty to see and do around Katoomba, the region's main town - visit the Edge Maxvision Cinema to see a thrilling Blue Mountains film, take a ride across or down into the Jamison Valley (on the Scenic Skyway or Scenic Railway respectively) and enjoy the many cafés and crafts shops. Continue on the Great Western Highway, via the village of Medlow Bath, dominated by the impressive 1930s Hydro Majestic Hotel. There are more stunning views from Blackheath - take Govett's Leap Road to the lookout of the same name. This is also the location of the informative Heritage Centre and the starting point for some good bushwalks in the Blue Mountains National Park. Beyond here, stop off in the tiny village of Mount Victoria for afternoon tea or a spot of antique shopping. From here, there's the 120km round-trip to Jenolan Caves - a marvellous world of caverns, stalactites and stalagmites, and where you'll also find some of the best bushwalking tracks in the Mountains.
Overnight in Lithgow
Day 3: LITHGOW - SYDNEY
If time permits, take a ride on the famous Zig Zag Railway. Built in 1869, the line traverses the hillside in a spectacular giant Z, and rides on either a steam or vintage diesel train are available. On the way back to Sydney (via the Bells Line of Road), we suggest you call in at the glorious Mount Tombah Botanic Gardens with its lush cool-climate plants, great views and excellent café. The Bells Line of Road and Windsor Road will take you back to the City Centre. |
