The Blue Mountains is one of Australia’s most stunning and picturesque mountain ranges.
Located less than an hour drive from Sydney, it is easily accessible, and jam packed full of adventurous activities, hiking tracks and unbelievable views.
Interesting history of the Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains were formed over a million years ago and were once home to the indigenous Aborigines the Daruk people who lived off the land of this region. This region was not always named the Blue Mountains, once called the Carmarthen / Lansdowne Hills by an old Governor, the name Blue Mountains was coined due to the distinctive blue haze created by a mixture of elements that surrounds the mountains.
The Wildlife
The Blue Mountains is known for its array of incredible native Australian wildlife. While exploring the world heritage site be sure to keep an eye out for some adorable koalas, kangaroos, echidna’s, and wallabies that often hide in the bushes. Not only are there tonnes of cute and cuddly Aussie animals, make sure you keep your eyes pealed for the not so friendly creatures such as snakes, spiders and insects.
The Three Sisters
The Three Sisters rock formation is the most well-known part of the Blue Mountains. It is located at Echo Point in Katoomba and attracts millions of travellers each year to marvel at its beauty. The name comes from an Aboriginal dream time story that explains these three sisters were turned into stone. They all stand at over 900 metres tall and change colours with the time of the day and the weather. The best viewing point for the sisters is at Echo Point, where you can see the entire Jamison Valley.
Jenolan Caves
The Jenolan Caves are fascinating limestone caves that are estimated to be around 340 million years old, which makes them the worlds oldest dated and known open cave system. They cover a large area of the Blue Mountains and are spectacular to explore. Full of unique natural formations, underground rivers, and otherworldly views, the Jenolan Caves cannot be missed when adventuring in the Blue Mountains!
Scenic World
Scenic World is an iconic part of the Blue Mountains and offers the best views of the national park. First established in 1945, it is home to the steeped incline railway in the world. It glides between the clifftops at over 270 metres and allows you to have the best 360 views of the Blue Mountains. There are four options when visiting scenic world, they include the railway, walkway, cableway, and the skyway. Each enable you to explore the mountains in different ways and see them from every possible angle.
Related article: How the Blue Mountains got their name
Recommended Blue Mountains Tours: 1 Day Blue Mountains Tour
Price: $75
Company: Last Minute Day Tours
This post was originally posted on https://lastminutedaytoursaustralia.blogspot.com/2020/12/what-is-special-about-blue-mountains.html
