Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains are located just a short drive away from Sydney and are one of the most popular attractions for Sydneysiders. It is possible to make a day trip to Blue Mountains and discover a part of it but it is actually recommended to spend at least a few days at Blue Mountains Region to be able to visit this 1436 square kilometres of nature wonder. In addition to Katoomba, the largest town in the region, Oberon, Richmond, Penrith and Lithgow are also worth to visit. You will not regret!

Do you know why Blue Mountains are called "blue"? Due to its amazing flora! This area is rich of eucalyptus trees (also known as gum trees). Eucalyptus trees emit eucalyptus oil from their leaves and this oil evaporates under strong sun. The resulting steam refracts the light and can be seen as blue from some distance. Nature is full of surprises! It is impossible to not to get impressed while watching this breathtaking view.

There is a lot to see at Blue Mountains. One of the unique symbols is, "Three Sisters", the three spectacular rock formations with a very interesting history. According to the myth, three beautiful sisters from Katoomba tribe had fallen in love with three brothers from Nepean tribe. But the traditions did not let them marry. Thereupon, the brothers decided to capture the three sisters which resulted in a great fight between two tribes. A witchdoctor from Katoomba wanted to protect the sisters from getting harmed during the fight and turned them into stone, planning to turn them into their previous beauty once the war was over. Unfortunately, the witchdoctor was killed during the war and since he was the only one who could take the magic back, "Three Sisters" has become an everlasting monument of elegance in World Heritage listed Blue Mountains Region.

There are many ways to explore Blue Mountains. Skyway, with its glass bottom, gives the opportunity to take in birds eye views of Three Sisters, Katoomba Waterfall and of course the immense Jamison Valley. The rain forest of Jamison Valley is World Heritage listed and this 2 km beautiful path can be accessed by taking the Scenic Cableway or Scenic Railway which is known to be the steepest incline railway in the world. In the meanwhile, the coal mine exhibition can also be visited on the way which is a part of the path.

Interested? There are many convenient ways to get to Blue Mountains. The most popular destinations Katoomba and Leura are just around 1.5 hours drive, if you have a car. If notof, City Rail has a very convenient route that departs from Central Station and makes only a few stops until it gets to Blue Mountains. Taking a coach from Circular Quay is another alternative and the prices depend on the travel agency that offer these day trips.