Accommodation in the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains were named due to the blue haze that can be seen from Sydney—created by light interacting with the vapour emanating from millions of eucalypt trees. This rugged region features dramatic cliffs, rock formations, waterfalls and caves. Once seen as a barrier to the infant colony's expansion westwards, the Blue Mountains is now a popular holiday or weekend destination due to its proximity to Sydney.

This spectacular wilderness area—now World Heritage-listed—can be enjoyed year round. Seasonal changes here are more marked than in Sydney, and temperatures can plummet very quickly, especially in winter, so it is wise to always be prepared for cold weather. This climate makes the Blue Mountains an ideal location for Yulefest, a mid-winter ‘Christmas' festival, held annually throughout the mountains between June and August. A number of villages are to be found in the Blue Mountains, offering excellent restaurants, cafes, pubs, gardens, galleries, antique stores and other shops to entertain less energetic visitors.