The Blue Mountains

Mt. Piddington (Not included in the 5–day itinerary):

Mt. Piddington is the first leg of the journey for the 7–day itinerary for our self-guided walking holiday. It is an easy climb up to Mt. Piddington, the highest point in the mountains. At the top, you will have a lookout over the Kanimbla Valley and plenty of space to rest. From there, you will descend into the heart of the forest through more rugged terrain to reach Cox’s Cave.

Cox’s Cave (Not included in the 5–day itinerary):

Continuing down the trail from Mt. Piddington will lead you through the heavily wooded forest into a gully. Luscious green trees will surround you as you make your way. Then, a quick jaunt up a steep will lead you to the path towards Cox’s Cave. Next, you will take a more remote path to a canyon which will emerge to a large natural rock amphitheatre. If you want to add something special before returning to your accommodation, we recommend visiting the delightful rhododendron gardens close by.

Govett’s Leap:

Govett’s Leap is known as one of the most spectacular lookouts in the Blue Mountains. This lookout contains sweeping panoramic views of the enormous Grose Valley surrounded by magnificent sandstone cliffs. In addition, off to the right there is the highest waterfall in the Blue Mountains: Bridal Veil Falls, which stands at 180m.

In the early 1800s, the Blue Mountains were promoted for heath purposes because of the “ozone-laden,” air. Now, the focus is this and on the tremendous views, birdwatching, and a fascinating legend.

This wild legend states that there once was an escaped convict, Govett, who got himself into trouble living as an outlaw. With local troopers closing in on him, he became trapped on the edge of a cliff. Instead of submitting to capture, Govett chose death! He turned his horse towards the edge and leapt off the side to plummet to his death.

In all reality, the lookout if actually named after William Romaine Govett. This Govett was a Scottish Surveyor hired by the Surveyor-General’s Department of New South Wales in 1827, and he was known for being clever with unexplored territory. The lookout was named in his honour. As an added note, “leap” does not mean to jump in this case; it actually means “waterfall” in Scottish.

Pulpit Rock:

A jaunt away from Govett’s Leap is Pulpit Rock. This multi-tiered lookout provides ample vantage points to view the Grose Valley. Pulpit Rock is perched high above the valley and will provide you with an almost 360° panorama view of huge sandstone cliffs. From here you will be able to witness how the Blue Mountains appear to be blue. Next, you will walk down into the Grand Canyon!

Grand Canyon:

Walking through the Grand Canyon is like taking a step back in time. Long gone is civilisation; instead, it is replaced by a natural beauty millions of years in the making. Unlike its counterpart in the USA, the Grand Canyon in the Blue Mountains is a lush rainforest with babbling creeks, rushing waterfalls, and gigantic sandstone walls with rock overhangs looming overhead.

In 1907, the Grand Canyon opened to the public and has been regarded as one of the most scenic walking trails in the Blue Mountains region. On both our self-guided and guided walking holiday tour, you will be able to be immersed in nature without a heavy backpack slowing you down as you trek in and out of the canyon. At the end of your hike out of the Grand Canyon you will be rewarded with Evan’s Lookout. From here you will simultaneously catch and lose your breath as you look out over the tops of the trees from the clifftop.

Furber Steps Challenge:

Instead of riding up the Scenic Railway, you have the option of participating in the Furber Steps Challenge. This challenging trail carves a steep path through the rainforest alongside cascading waterfalls and adorable grottos that entice you to pause and revel in their beauty.

Instead of being suspended over the rainforest in a gondola, you will be immersed in the sounds, scents, and beautiful views that nature has to offer those willing to go the extra distance. Lush flora and vibrant animals will be around every corner, so have your camera ready!

Jamison Valley:

Included in your guided and self-guided walking holiday is a gondola ride (and the scenic railway train ride down into the valley) on the Scenic Skyway suspended across the Jamison Valley. Taking this ride will allow you a bird’s-eye view over this expansive valley. At almost 10 kilometres wide, Jamison Valley extends from Katoomba to the ridge of Mount Solitary and from Narrow Neck Plateau to Kings Tableland.

The original inhabitants of this gorgeous valley were the Gundungurra Aboriginals who lived there for almost 40,000 years. The valley itself was named after a prominent landowner and doctor of the early 1800s, Sir John Jamison.

Many of the trails in and around Jamison Valley were not actually created for tourism, but instead were created as access routes for miners. Logging and mining were prevalent in the late 1800s, with coal and shale being mined from the bottom of the cliffs. It was not until most of the coal was excavated that the valley reverted to the state that we can see today.

The Three Sisters:

The Three Sisters is one of the most magnificent wonders of the Blue Mountains, attracting millions of visitors each year with its breathtaking views and magical Aboriginal legends. The Three Sisters is a unique rock formation with a legend that has captured hearts for generations.

It is said that long ago in the Katoomba tribe there once lived three sisters, “Meehi,” “Wimlah,” and “Gunnedoo.” These women were the most gorgeous in the land, and they had fallen madly in love. Tragically, the three bothers for whom they had fallen were from a different tribe, and it was forbidden for them to marry. The brothers would not accept this and decided to fight for the women they loved, which caused a catastrophic battle between the tribes. With the battle raging, a witchdoctor decided to protect the Three Sisters from harm. To do this, he turned them to stone with the intent to reverse the spell once the battle had concluded.

Alas, the witchdoctor died in the battle, making it impossible for the sisters to be transformed back into their stunning selves. To this day, the Three Sisters remain a stoic yet magnificent reminder of the battle, with each sister standing just over 900 metres tall. Their character and beauty still shine through with the changing sunlight and colours of the days and seasons.

Giant Stairway:

It is time for a challenge! The Giant Stairway is a challenging walk that will get your heart pumping! In 1916, the idea for creating the Giant Stairway was approved and construction began, but after facing the difficulty of cutting stone steps out a cliff face, the project was scrapped midway through. It was restarted in 1932 and finally completed with over 800 steps built into the stone with the addition of steel staircases.

This walk plunges down almost 300 metres from the Three Sisters and allows you to escape the crowds to travel into the depths of the Leura Forest.

Please note that if you have a fear of heights, then this walk may be unpleasant for you. Don’t be too worried, though, because there are steel handrails and fences protecting you.

Waterfall Valley (Not included in the 5–day itinerary):

Entering Waterfall Valley is liking stepping into the land of the fae. Five waterfalls packed close together create a magical setting that will impress any nature lover. Cascading waterfalls bouncing droplets of water against sandstone cliffs create miniature rainbows as the sun glints down from above. Moss-covered stones, thick forests, and the mysterious lyrebird peeking in-and-out of sight will make you want to stay forever and become a creature of the forest.

There are no true words to express the awesome beauty that is Waterfall Valley; you will simply have to see it for yourself.

Wentworth Falls (Not included in the 5–day itinerary):

As we near the end of our guided and self-guided walking tours, we approach Wentworth Falls. 187 metres high and boasting three tiers, this waterfall will astound you as it cascades down the sandstone cliffs. As you descend to the base of the waterfalls, you will be able to catch a glimpse of a rainbow as the water ricochets off the cliff. Dance along the water’s edge before you snap some photos and then head along to complete the final leg of the journey.

Our journey is now complete, and we can relax in the charming town of Wentworth Falls Village. Quaint cafés, fantastic restaurants, unique specialty shops, and stunning galleries will grab your attention and be the perfect end to your walking holiday.

Fun fact: the world-famous naturalist and biologist Charles Darwin visited Jamison Valley in 1836. He was greatly impressed by the scene of Wentworth Falls. Because of this, there is a trail connected to Wentworth Falls named in his honour.

Wineries and Breweries

Along with the delectable dining available, the Blue Mountains are home to many wineries and breweries that create wonderful drinks that are featured in local restaurants and exported around the world. Head on over for a tasting, for an education of the brewing process, and to take home a souvenir to share with friends at the next dinner party. One notable location available in our walking holiday areas is the Carrington Cellars in Katoomba.

Jenolan Caves

Does the idea of an award-winning cave tickle your fancy? Jenolan Caves are the world’s oldest caves and are open daily! There are eight magnificent caves available to the public including a cathedral-style cave that frequently hosts weddings, a temple-style cave that features light shows, and a beautiful cave with colourful rock formations. There are caves for every fitness level, age, and interest!

Leura Mall

During your stay in Leura, take the time to explore the Leura Mall. Quaint coffee shops, delicious restaurants, charming boutiques, and unique galleries line the streets. Simply window shop or slip in to see what they offer! In addition, Leura is well-known for its glamourous gardens, which are open to the public at select times of the years. If you happen to take a walking holiday during October, then you will be able to experience the Leura Garden Festival and the Leura Village Fair.

Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms:

Are you a tea lover? How does the world’s largest private collection of teawares combined with a scrumptious set of tea samples sound? Perfect! Located in Leura, the Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms feature over 5,500 teapots from around the world spanning five centuries of history and culture. Sample teas and find the perfect tea to take home as a souvenir.

Waradah Australian Centre

Learn more about the rich history of the Aboriginals in the Blue Mountains at the Waradah Australian Centre. Here, they host live performances multiple times per day. In addition, you can support the local tribes by taking home a handmade souvenir from their art gallery and retail sections.

United Cinemas: The Edge

Want to kick back and relax after a long day of walking with a movie? The Edge is set in the centre of Katoomba and has four theatres that play a vast array of movies. You can even experience a flight simulator if you want to add an extra bit of excitement to your evening.