Set off on this adventure in Sydney and head to the town of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains. The World Heritage-listed wilderness natural area will amaze you with its rocky formations, vast forests, canyons, waterfalls, and wildlife. On the second day of your tour, enjoy short hikes to Katoomba Falls or Wentworth Falls and admire the natural paradise during the Three Sisters Walk. Soak up the scenic views and hop aboard the world's steepest railway into the Jamison Valley. On the last day, visit the beautiful Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens and enjoy the tranquilly and stunning display of plants and basalt cap forests.
Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city, is a vibrant hub of culture, beauty, and history. Home to nearly 20% of the country's population, it’s also Australia’s largest city. Perched along the stunning east coast, Sydney boasts an enviable mix of world-famous landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, alongside pristine white-sand beaches like Bondi and Manly. With a rich tapestry of history, art, and diverse culinary delights, Sydney offers something for every traveller, from sun-seekers and food lovers to adventure enthusiasts.
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Please note, a one-way fee may apply
Today, you will journey away from the vibrant city of Sydney and into the peace and tranquility of the Blue Mountains. On your way out of the city, you will pass Sydney Olympic Park, home to the 2000 Olympic games. Once the M4 becomes the Great Western Motorway, you will have countless opportunities to stretch your legs as you drive through the small towns of Springwood, Wentworth Falls, and Leura before arriving into Katoomba. Check out all the stunning walking tracks in the area.
The World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is a wilderness area showcasing ancient rock formations, vast canyons and waterfalls plummeting into valleys below. The breathtaking views over the region stretch to the hazy blue horizon, while the historic village towns nestled amongst the rainforest are dotted with tea rooms, cellar doors and breweries hosted by local producers. There is no shortage of adventure in the Blue Mountains with the rugged sandstone escarpments, underground caves and deep canyons providing the perfect playground for rock climbing, abseiling, canyoning and more. Of course, relaxation is also on the cards with a number of resorts, boutique guesthouses and day spas throughout.
Your accommodation: The Carrington Hotel
The Carrington Hotel has celebrated a long rich history since opening its doors in August 1883. This beloved Blue Mountains landmark offers a unique ambiance and timeless elegance of a bygone era. Steeped in history, you can sense the inimitable character and charm ingrained in the very fabric of this magnificent building.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 101 kms / 63 miles : 1.4 hours
There's no better way to enjoy the iconic views of the World-Heritage listed UNESCO Blue Mountains, than with the Unlimited Discovery Pass.
Navigate the site as you like, at your own pace. Hop aboard the world's steepest railway into the Jamison Valley. Explore kilometres of raised boardwalks through the rainforest, spotting Lyre Birds and ancient tree ferns amongst other flora and fauna. Ride the Cableway, to cruise past the sandstone escarpment and Orphan Rock. No visit is complete without gliding past Katoomba Falls and the Three Sisters on the iconic Skyway.
Maximise your time in the mountains by combining three of the most iconic, short walks. Start your day at Echo Point with the family-friendly Three Sisters Walk (1km), providing ever-changing, breathtaking views of the famous rock formation. Next, tackle the spectacular Katoomba Falls Round Track (2km), descending through a lush gully for dramatic waterfall vistas and historic lookouts like Vanimans. In the afternoon, drive to the Wentworth Falls picnic area to experience the short but steep Wentworth Falls Track (1.4km). You will be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the 100m cascade plunging to the valley floor and the vast Jamison Valley. This combination offers incredible vistas, varied terrain, and captures the dramatic beauty of the Blue Mountains in one unforgettable day.
Your accommodation: The Carrington Hotel
The Carrington Hotel has celebrated a long rich history since opening its doors in August 1883. This beloved Blue Mountains landmark offers a unique ambiance and timeless elegance of a bygone era. Steeped in history, you can sense the inimitable character and charm ingrained in the very fabric of this magnificent building.
Discover a showcase of local and imported cool climate plants and basalt cap forests, surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage Area wilderness. Enjoy the tranquillity on the walking trails, wander the plant displays, or take a pitstop at the restaurant with views of the scenic mountains.
Depart the breathtaking, rugged cliffs of Katoomba, beginning your scenic descent from the high Blue Mountains. You'll follow the Great Western Highway, winding through historic mountain towns like Leura and Wentworth Falls. The landscape gradually shifts from dense eucalyptus forest and sandstone escarpments to rolling foothills. The road soon widens into the Western Motorway, increasing your pace toward the city. This journey offers a striking contrast as the pristine wilderness gives way to the growing suburban sprawl. The route culminates with the iconic Sydney skyline appearing on the horizon, signalling your return to the vibrant heart of Australia’s largest city.
Explore more of Sydney before dropping your rental car at the depot.
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 97 kms / 60 miles : 1.3 hours