Just Back From The Blue Mountains
by Kate Maddocks
The Blue Mountains starts just over 60 kilometres from Sydney CBD making it the perfect weekend getaway or day trip.
Blue Mountains is a destination for all year around, but extremely popular from Autumn as the colours of the leaves change from town to town, especially at Mt Wilson or in the upper mountains from Wentworth Falls to Blackheath.
It stars as a winter getaway within easy driving distance or catching a train through the glorious eucalyptus forest, which gave the Blue Mountains World Heritage status. Winter for the Blue Mountains is becoming renowned for “Yulefest”, as a destination to experience the Cold European Christmas festivities in the middle of the year away from Australia’s blazing hot summer. Many venues offer Christmas celebrations. World class restaurants at famous Blue Mountains resorts offering Christmas feasts of turkey and other delicacies, while relaxing with a warm coffee or wine, compete with intimate B & Bs The Winter Magic Festival is an experience not to miss. Katoomba main street comes alive with performers, street stalls and gourmet delicacies. The Winter Magic Festival is held in late June and is chosen to fall about the same time as the shortest day of the year, better known as winter solstice, on June 21 or 22 . It is a time to celebrate the end of short cold days which now begin to become longer warmer days until the blossoms begin to bloom in spring. A wide range of accommodation types is available to choose from. There are 5 star resorts through to cosy bed and breakfasts and many types of cuisine to choose from in the restaurants and cafés, especially in Leura, Katoomba and Blackheath There are 26 townships in the Blue Mountains to explore and all townships are unique. There is something for everyone. From bushwalks with the kangaroos at Glenbrook’s Euroka Clearing in the Blue Mountains National Park to many art, craft and gift galleries or township weekend markets. Many international visitors have their breath taken away by the glorious views, including the rock formation known as the 3 Sisters which looks over the Jamison Valley. It is perhaps ironic that many overseas visitors have a better impression of the Blue Mountains than some Australians who take them for granted. So, take the time to get acquainted with the World Heritage listed City within a National Park.
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