Located just inland from Sydney and forming part of the Great Dividing Range, the Blue Mountains National Park is one of New South Wales’ most popular natural attractions. It’s home to the towering Three Sisters sandstone rock formations and sacred Aboriginal sites, with plenty of walking trails to discover its waterfalls, magnificent gorges, and scenic lookout points.
The Three Sisters Walk boasts incredible views of these weather-eroded sandstone turrets, which rise spectacularly above the blue-tinged Jamison Valley. Take in the panoramas from Oreades Lookout and get a closer glimpse at Lady Game Lookout, with Honeymoon Bridge connecting to the first “sister”.
Or why not follow the Giant Stairway down into the Jamison Valley, whose blue haze is created by thousands of eucalyptus trees. The trail leads through native bushland, where crimson rosellas and lyrebirds can be spotted. The Blue Mountains are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with everything from rock climbing to abseiling and mountain biking on offer.
Don’t miss a ride on the Zig Zag Railway, a heritage narrow-gauge line that was originally built in the 1860s. Today its passenger cars are pulled by beautifully restored historic steam and diesel engines as they negotiate the steep western flank of the Blue Mountains.
Marvel at the Jenolan Caves' stalactites and stalagmites and witness the cascades of Wentworth Falls, then explore the elevated walkway at Katoomba Scenic World. Also of note is the Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens at Mount Tombah, which features thousands of southern hemisphere plant species and panoramic views of the Blue Mountains.