Things to Do in the Blue Mountains National Park of New South Wales

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

Just forty-seven minutes from Sydney, lies a vast landscape of untouched terrain, traversing over eleven thousand square metres in area and just over one thousand metres in elevation. This World Heritage listed site is named, The Blue Mountains; ‘blue’ due to the ever-present eucalyptus trees that omit oil droplets, generating faint rays of blue light which project into the atmosphere.

Photo: Courtesy of Visit New South Wales

Engulfed by bushwalking trails, and the world’s oldest caves–paired with all the flora and fauna that crown the region the home–there is much to do and discover, not to mention the breathtaking views that are worth climbing to. If you haven’t visited already, this list we’ve curated will have you planning your visit, inevitably. 

Photo: Courtesy of Hydro Majestic

The Hydro Majestic Experience

Seen from afar-perched above the Megalong Valley, you could say it shares a resemblance to Parliament House. The 1.1-kilometre-long hotel features a white exterior and dome-like entrance. It’s striking, to say the least. Then there’s inside; art deco fittings with an ambience that feels regal and superior. Choose from 82 guestrooms, all across five different wings; all showcasing the Hotel’s rich heritage and for some, panoramic views. Bed chambers aside, the offerings are a crucial asset in not just providing you with a place to stay, but an experience. 

While dining at high altitudes, you can only anticipate local produce to be the region's freshest and indeed fruitful. Pair that with a sitting (table-clothed) window-side as you embark on a journey of Blue Mountains gastronomy. ‘The Wintergarden’ is the Hydro Majestic’s most premium restaurant, with a succulent afternoon high tea menu and of course an unforgettable mountaintop supper. If you’re a tea connoisseur, you can pay a visit to Salon du Thé where you’ll find yourself sipping in Shanghai as the bar’s rich heritage seduces you. Majestic in its own right, the Hydro Majestic is a bucket-list experience waiting to be ticked off.  

Address: 52/88 Great Western Hwy Medlow Bath NSW 2780  | Website: hydromajestic.com.au | Phone: +612 4782 6885 | Email: reservations@hydromajestic.com.au | Instagram: @hydrobluemountains | Facebook: Hydro Majestic Hotel Blue Mountains

Photo: Courtesy of Beyond Skyway

Fly Sky-High

Simply wandering the towns of Katoomba, Leura or Blackheath is the best way to soak up all Blue Mountains’ oozing charm. But if you feel like going to the next level (and you’re not afraid of heights) then prepare to encounter the world’s first rooftop cable car experience, Beyond Skyway. Suspending 270 metres above the Jamison Valley, champagne in hand as you breathe in the crisp mountain air, this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. With flexible passes on offer, there’s no excuse not to commit to going beyond. 

Address: 1 Violet St, Katoomba | Website: beyondskyway.com.au | Phone: +61 460 036 606  | Email: concierge@beyondskyway.com.au

Photo: Courtesy of The Venue Report

Dine at Darley's

Founded in the very historic Lilianfels House of over 100 years, Darley’s restaurant is set amongst prime English gardens growing ingredients featured in both five and seven-course set menus with locally paired wines. In 2023, the Restaurant was awarded two very deserving chef hats, which comes as no surprise. Floor-to-ceiling curtains surround the room against antique windows as an Elizabethan style porch borders the premises-undeniably a most premium culinary journey worth the bloat. 

Address: 5-19 Lilianfels Avenue, Katoomba New South Wales 2780 | Website: lilianfels.com.au/dining/darleys | Phone: +61 2 4780 1200 | Email: reservations@lilianfels.com.au | Instagram: @lilianfelsbluemountains | Facebook: Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa | Katoomba NSW 

Photo: Courtesy of Echoes Boutique Hotel

Echoes Boutique Hotel and Restaurant

Possibly one of the most famous of Blue Mountains Hotels (due to its prime location, situated right to the edge of Blue Mountains National Park), Echoes Boutique Hotel caters to anyone wanting to travel in style. The best thing about boutique accommodation is the exceptional level of service and intimate atmosphere infused between quaint architecture inside to the petite gardens outside. Add on fine dining and a rejuvenating day spa and we have a winner. Conveniently, Echoes sister property, Lilianfels Resort and Spa is located immediately next door which Echoes guests can access to choose between two swimming pools, a gymnasium and a tennis court at no extra cost.  

While the local cuisine is far above standard, Echoes Restaurant & Bar offers a menu guided by Asian influence using fresh and local produce; we can’t forget the boutique wines of course, oh and the soaring views that extend right down the state. Do yourself a favour and set yourself up for a magical experience at Echoes. 

Address: 3 Lilianfels Avenue, Katoomba New South Wales 2780 | Website: echoeshotel.com.au  | Phone: (02) 4782 1966 | Email: reservations@echoeshotel.com.au | Instagram: @echoesboutiquehotel | Facebook: Echoes Boutique Hotel and Restaurant Blue Mountains

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