Short Breaks in the Blue Mountains

Wide open spaces, simple pleasures and fresh alpine air

A favourite weekend escape for Sydneysiders, it's high time the rest of Australia discovers the magical allure of the Blue Mountains. The region has earned its place on the World Heritage List with hectares of unspoiled wilderness and breathtaking natural beauty, its peaceful ambience attracting a community of artists, retirees and anyone looking to escape the frantic pace of big city life. You can easily lose track of time when you tour the Blue Mountains as you stop looking at your watch and start enjoying the stunning surrounds. Day trip from Sydney with a rail journey into the mountains, or hire a car and take to the Great Western Highway to be romanced by the scenic countryside.

The cultural capital of the region, Katoomba, is a long-standing mountain escape for city folk– while modern life has put its stamp on the town, you can still feel old world charm in the art deco architecture of Katoomba Street businesses. During your weekend in the Blue Mountains, head to Echo Point to see sweeping panoramic views with the Three Sisters rock formations in the foreground and make your way down the Giant Stairway. Blue Mountains accommodation options are widespread including luxury retreats, self contained cottages and bed and breakfasts perfectly complimenting the dreamy nature of the area.

Just down the road, Leura is sprinkled with cosy coffee shops, cafes and gorgeous boutique shops, rivalling Katoomba in popularity. The history and landscape of the Blue Mountains area make it ideal for a weekend of antique hunting, hiking or market browsing. If you are after an outdoorsy weekend away from Sydney, there are vast bushwalking and mountain biking trails tracing the hills. Enjoy the wide open spaces, simple pleasures and fresh alpine air with a Blue Mountains short break this weekend.