The Blue Mountains in New South Wales

Around some 100 kms west of Sydney, the name “Blue Mountains” is something of a misnomer. They aren’t particularly blue but there is a blue haze which rises above them, in most lights. Secondly they are not in fact mountains. They are actually cliffs which surround a plateau, but since they are around 1,190 metres high, then they do look a bit like mountains.

But they are a fantastic sight to see ! The blueness actually comes from the Eucalyptus forests which release oils into the air and when these meet oxygen, the air literally turns blue!

Since the spectacle of these cliffs (or mountains) is actually so awesome, there are some excellent tourist facilities in the neighbourhood. One of the natural ‘wonders’ is a series of three peaks, which is known as the Three Sisters. Adjacent to this is the

Giant Staircase, which leads down into the Valley below where you can go on all kinds of walks and simply marvel at the scenery.

The area is well served by around 20 little towns which are dotted around the vicinity of the mountains, having evolved as settlements grew. This means that there are plenty of restaurants and places to eat, things to see and do and lots of activities are available such was walking, trekking, golf or horse riding.

You can also ride on the Katoomba Scenic Railway, which is the steepest railway in the whole world. Or if you are even braver and have a good head for heights then you can try out the Scenic Skyway which is a glass bottomed cable car. The views are terrific and you really should try it!

There are some caves to explore called the Jenolan Caves, which are made of limestone and are of exceptional quality in terms of just how deep and far they go.

In addition to this there are lots of Museums, such as the Toy Museum, which is sited at Leura or the Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum which is in the town of Faulconbridge. Bars, hotels and other refreshment facilities are also in good supply and a great way to find somewhere to eat, is to ask the locals, they are very proud of their towns.

All in all this really is a special area. It is not as discovered as it could be and the towns all have their own unique identity and there is a very friendly atmosphere in all of them. Yet this is also an area which is respectful of nature and the wonders she has given to the locality. This makes it a place to which you will find yourself drawn to and soon after you leave it, you will feel that yearning to return to this very magical place, with its magical Blue Mountains.