Best places to stay in the Blue Mountains
There are eight connected national parks which make up the Blue Mountains region, but most of the best places to stay in the Blue Mountains are around Katoomba and the Jamison Valley, in the Blue Mountains National Park.
There’s a hazy, blue magic to many views of the Blue Mountains, but it’s not just your imagination and the morning sunlight, there really is something in the air: a fine mist mixed with eucalyptus oil. Most views also include plenty of breathtakingly sheer drops into lush valleys and random wedges of sandstone positioned like precarious islands above the rainforest canopy below.
The Blue Mountains are only just inland from Sydney, a comfortably short drive or train ride away, and within the commuting belt for some. But if you don’t stay overnight you’ll miss the most magical views, those of the region at sunset and sunrise.
As well as admiring the views from the numerous lookouts - Echo Point being the most famous, there’s also plenty of exploring to be done here, and as well as entering the deep, cool valleys there are some spectacular caves to ‘discover’. The Blue Mountains also boasts a Skyway gondola, with a glass floor, and the Scenic railway, which is supposed to be the world’s steepest railway, inching down a 52 degree incline. There are also several Aboriginal Cultural Centres and a number of art galleries - this is where the celebrated Australian artist Norman Lindsay lived.
Katoomba is the largest town in the mountains, and it’s quite a charmer, with an Art Deco main street and plenty of nice places to eat. The Blue Mountains is a popular spot for a romantic escape for Sydney-siders. Our pick of the best places to stay in the Blue Mountains are perfect for a luxury break with outstanding views and all will suit keen foodies too.
Best Places to Stay in the Blue Mountains
For jaw-dropping views
- Lilianfels in in Katoomba, in the heart of the Blue Mountains National Park. The whole hotel looks like a welcoming homestead, with 85 light and airy rooms with fantastic views across the Jamison Valley. There’s an indoor pool, and outdoor pool and a spa and tennis courts, and there’s an award winning restaurant.
For a luxury retreat
- Spicers Sangoma Retreat is a much smaller property, with only five luxurious suites, and an ecological bent. Each suite has a private plunge pool, a huge Philipe Stark bathtub for two and a private terrace. There’s also seasonal food served.
For foodies
- An in between option is the 12 room Echoes Boutique Resort, a luxury hotel which also overlooks the Jamison Valley. There’s a spa, pool, sauna and an award winning restaurant.
Still not sure which is the best place to stay in the Blue Mountains for you? Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in the Blue Mountains, expand your search to include all our New South Wales recommendations or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
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Spicers Sangoma Retreat Bowen Mountain, New South Wales 5 rooms from $993
Yoga - Rise early for private yoga classes in your suite or on the resort terrace as the sun come up over the mountainsCountry Escape - An adults-only escape in the spectacular Blue Mountains, promising rural charm & activities aplentyRomantic Break - A dazzling romantic retreat with sumptuous suites, a superb spa and fabulous fine diningTrekking - Venture far from the beaten track with a Rainfroest Guided Eco-Tour or Mount Banks hike
Check AvailabilityHigh in the beautiful Blue Mountains, this eco retreat offers luxurious suites with private plunge pools, terraces & stunning views. Chic interiors with dark wood feature walls & huge Philipe Stark bathtubs for two. Food is seasonal, local and organic. An idyllic spot for total rejuvenation. See More
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Lilianfels Katoomba, New South Wales 85 rooms from $219
Learning - The Buunyal tour, an authentic Indigenous experience, offers a fascinating insight into the world of the Blue MountainsCountry Escape - A beautiful mountain escape offering a plethora of activities for guests of all ages - also a romantic hideawayFoodies - Savour innovative cuisine created using fresh, seasonal produce at the award-winning Darley's RestaurantTrekking - Hike the 19km Grand Cliff Top Walk for fantastic views of the mountains
Check AvailabilityA charming country escape in the heart of the Blue Mountains National Park. Guest rooms are large & light, with fantastic views across Jamison Valley. The serene spa, indoor & outdoor pools, tennis courts & award-winning restaurant add to the luxury appeal for guests of all ages. Absolutely lovely. See More
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Echoes Boutique Resort Katoomba, New South Wales 14 rooms from $281
Families - Suites offer space for families, who will also appreciate the tennis courts, two swimming pools & adventurous activities aplentySpa breaks - Unwind in style at the spa, with two swimming pools, a sauna and steam room, plus rejuvenating massagesTrekking - Trek through the magnificent landscapes of the Blue Mountains with an expert guideTennis - Play a game of tennis with friends and family on the hotel's floodlit courtsRecommended by - Fodors, Kiwi CollectionCheck AvailabilitySituated in the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains, this luxury hotel offers spectacular guest rooms & suites with views out to the Jamison Valley. A gourmet eatery, gym, sauna, two swimming pools and spa make for a restful & rejuvenating stay. An ideal base for exploring this stunning region. See More
Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh
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