Eat-Play-Stay Blue Mountains Accommodation, Restaurant and Activities Guide
Looking for SOMEPLACE TO EAT...
IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
welcome from the mayor Whether this is your first time to the area or you’re a regular visitor, as Mayor I’m pleased to welcome you to the Blue Mountains. The Blue Mountains is made up of a number of distinct villages and townships, each with its own climate, terrain and atmosphere. We border one of the world’s greatest National Parks which was recognised in the year 2000 as a World Heritage Area. Living and playing in this unique and fragile environment carries responsibilities for us all. Council works hard to protect the sensitive Blue Mountains ecosystem and every visitor and resident can play an important role in helping to care for our environment. There are many wonderful activities for you and your family to take part in while visiting the Blue Mountains, from bushwalking in the lovely lower mountains wilderness, to visiting the iconic Three Sisters at Echo Point in Katoomba. You can also visit a range of art galleries, studios and cultural precincts. I hope you enjoy your stay and running through the challenging and breathtakingly beautiful World Heritage Area, that I call my home. Cr Mark Greenhill Mayor, City of Blue Mountains
-5-
-Eat-
where to fuel your body ahead of race day THE OLD BANK BRASSERIE The Carrington, Katoomba, Modern Australian P: (02) 4782 1111 STATION BAR Katoomba, Pizza P: (02) 4782 4782 THE LOOKOUT ECHO POINT Katoomba, Cafe P: (02) 4782 3653 CAFÉ 2773 Glenbrook, Modern Australin P: (02) 4739 5908 KATOOMBA RSL Katoomba, Modern Australian P: (02) 4782 2624
ARJUNA'S Katoomba, Indian P: (02) 4782 4662 CANTON PALACE Katoomba, International P:(02) 4782 2868 HANA Leura, Japanese P:(02) 4784 1345 LEURA GARAGE Leura, Tapas and pizza P: (02) 4784 3391 THE AVALON Katoomba, Modern Australian P: (02) 4782 5532
“Possibly the most beautiful bottle shop in Australia” – Thomas Egan, Winemaker Jed Wines
•
Specialising in • Regional Wines • Boutique Beers • International Deli • Saturday Wine & Food Tastings • UNIQUE HERITAGE ATMOSPHERE
LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC KATOOMBA POWER STATION BUILDING UNDER THE HUGE CHIMNEY ON THE HILL.
PARKE ST, KATOOMBA • T 4782 0999 • OFF-STREET PARKING • OPEN 7 DAYS
Scotty Hawker’s Top 5 coffee spots in the Blue Mountains You might not know but there’s a plethora of fantastic caffeine fix locations scattered throughout the Blue Mountains. Since moving to the area last April I’ve been doing my absolute best to try the many different single origins, blends and everything in between. Here’s my list of the top 5 beans on offer in the Upper Mountains! CASSIOPEIA (KATOOMBA) A specialty coffee shop offering excellent coffee and tasty snacks. A lighter roasting of their beans really brings out the smooth flavours. They do all of the roasting in-house and Lachlan is hands down the finest Barista I’ve come across in all my coffee endeavours anywhere I’ve travelled. Their pear and raspberry bread also goes brilliantly with whatever coffee you’re having - Heck, I’d go in for just that alone! ANONYMOUS (BLACKHEATH) Using Campos coffee beans this busy little cafe in the heart of Blackheath is always buzzing with locals & tourists. Renowned for their coffee, they also have a great menu that includes Mrs Hawker's favourite breakfast burrito. I’ve had one or two slightly longer waits for my brew to arrive only to be told the barista was re-making it as he wasn’t happy with the extraction. This goes to show how much pride they take in their work. Anonymous is also conveniently located en route to the 6FT Track checkpoint for support crew in the 100km.
THUNDERBIRD (KATOOMBA) Hands down the best coffee-food experience for me in the mountains. Serving some beautiful single origin coffee and when Blue Mountains locals Owen or Sarah are behind the machine you’re in for a treat. A great place to go for a post-run coffee and lunch with a fun Mexican theme. I highly recommend the vege burrito and a piccolo latte! ZEST (LEURA) The coffee choice for the infamous Friday Coffee Run. Great, smooth coffee and a nice atmosphere out in the courtyard. Behind the machine you’ll find Aaron or Elliot who are always keen for a chat, serving up nothing but quality coffee and top shelf latte art! The food at Zest is next level. Whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner, they know how to please with their mediterranean inspired cuisine. And with Matt in the kitchen, you'll never leave disappointed. THE RED DOOR CAFE (LEURA) A popular wee cafe right in the centre of Leura Mall. In a place where quality is a must they certainly live up to that. Serving great coffee and food to match. The cafe has a really cozy feel and the staff are friendly and attentive. Nice to have somewhere on call where you know you'll get great food and coffee every time.
Cafe
Store
Located in a 100 year old, beautifully restored church • Housemade cakes & scones • Legendary Josophan’s hot chocolate • Garden courtyard • Ginger & Candy Store 56 Waratah St. Katoomba. (Cnr Lurline.) 9am-5pm (7 days). Ph. 4782 6958 www.gbhousekatoomba.com
Sculptures at Scenic World exhibition If you’re looking for a perfect way to relax during your pre-race taper ahead of UTA, then mix Sculpture at Scenic World with the breathtaking wilderness of the Blue Mountains, great cafes, quirky antique places & some of the best accommodation in the area, and you have the promise of an indulgent, memorable escape. In its fifth year, the world-class Sculpture at Scenic World exhibition is the only one of its kind held in an Australian rainforest and features more than 30 artist’s works curated sympathetic to the natural environment, 8 April – 8 May, 2016. Six of the Blue Mountain’s most recognisable, resorts, spas, hotels and lodges including the newly rejuvenated Hydro Majestic, have joined with Sculpture at Scenic World to offer exclusive overnight art escape packages, combining the
Looking for SOMETHING TO DO...
IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
Ultimate Sculpture Pass to Scenic World with quality accommodation inclusions. The Ultimate Sculpture Pass includes exhibition entry to the rainforest where the sculptures are curated along the 2.4 kilometre Scenic Boardwalk – Australia’s longest elevated boardwalk – and unlimited rides on the Scenic Railway, Skyway and Cableway. www.scenicworld.com.au
-play-
things to do in the blue mountains NATIONAL PASS, WENTWORTH FALLS Starting at Conservation Hut, this walk passes waterfalls and lookouts before reaching the historic Grand Stairway. Trail head: The end of Fletcher St, Wentworth Falls.
BLUE MOUNTAINS CULTURAL CENTRE This is a showcase of our unique artistic life, world heritage environment and culture in a remarkable cultural precinct. 30 Parke St, Katoomba NSW 2780 P: (02) 4780 5410
KIDS KINGDOM Katoomba Aquatic Centre Catalina Ave, Katoomba P: (02) 4780 5156
LEURA TOY AND TRAIN MUSEUM 36 Olympian Parade, Leura NSW P: (02) 4784 1169
SCENIC WORLD Cnr of Violet St and Cliff Dr Katoomba, NSW P: (02) 4780 0200 MT TOMAH GARDENS The Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney is home to an outstanding collection of plants from around the world with a focus on Australia and the South Pacific. Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah P: (02) 4567 3000 GOVETTS LEAP Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you’ll know why it’s one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. Location: End of Govetts Leap Rd, Blackheath HORSEBACK RIDING Centennial Glen Stables Kanimbla Valley Drive, via Shipley Road, Blackheath P: (02) 4787 1193
CANYONING Blue Mountains Adventure Company P: 4782 1271 WARADAH ABORIGINAL CENTRE Witness Australian Aboriginal culture in a contemporary gallery; with dance & didgeridoo performances, authentic artworks & souvenirs. World Heritage Plaza 33-37 Echo Point Road Katoomba NSW P: (02) 4782 1979 BANFF FILM FESTIVAL This is an annual presentation of short films and documentaries about mountain culture, sports and environment. Screening: Wednesday, May 11th 2016 at United Cinema Katoomba Tickets: www.banffaustralia.com.au
brendan davies’ top 10 trail runs favourite tracks outside the Ultra-trail Australia course The City of the Blue Mountains is unique in that it lies entirely within a World Heritage Listed National Park. This affords us a multitude of recreational possibilities, many within close proximity to the villages and road networks. Living smack bang in the middle at Woodford, I’ve had the opportunity over the years to explore and discover many of the beautiful trails, ranging from the very easy to very challenging and one thing remains common, if the run doesn’t leave you breathless, the scenery certainly will! 1. GLENBROOK: CAMPFIRE CREEK TO RED HANDS CAVE RETURN VIA LINK TRACK (8KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066358 A really sweet, flowing piece of single trail takes runners past the cool and subtropical environment of Campfire Creek, leading up to the significant indigenous site of Red Hands Cave. Once at Red Hands Cave carpark, return via the Link Track for a change of scenery before hooking back onto Campfire Creek for the return to the start for 8km. 2. WINMALEE: BLUE GUM SWAMP/ SHAWS RIDGE TRAIL LOOP (8KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066364 Starting at the end of White Cross Rd at Winmalee, this pleasant 8km loop takes you through old growth Blue Gum forests on mostly single track. If done in the preferred clockwise direction, at the 4km point there is an option to add the challenging Bees Nest Hill out and back to your plans. Take a short right at the top of the hill to Grose Head South Lookout for a superb view through the lower Grose Valley. Continue around the loop, which eventually turns into Shaws Ridge Firetrail and back to the start.
3. SPRINGWOOD: SASSAFRAS GULLY & MAGDALA TRACK LOOP (9.4KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066377 Starting at the end of Sassafras Gully Rd, this lovely loop of approximately 9km meanders along and over a number of small creeks to the Perch Ponds junction. Look out for places to have a dip! The track then travels past Martins and Magdala Fallls which while small, are typically beautiful. The loop ends on the Magdala Track which takes you to Springwood Ave before a small road run back to the start. 4. FAULCONBRIDGE RIDGE TRAIL TO FAUCONBRIDGE POINT RETURN (13.5KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4061832 A classic Blue Mountains firetrail run. This is a 13.5km out and back course on reasonably flat firetrail; the reward at the turnaround is an eyepopping view of the Grose Valley to the West, North and East to the Hawkesbury. For those more adventurous souls, take the small side track 1km from the turnaround for a drop down to the Grose River. Just be aware that what goes down must come back up! 5. WOODFORD: OAKS FIRE TRAIL (27KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066390 A favourite of Mountain bikers and trail runners alike, this is another classic firetrail course, starting at Woodford Station and travelling downill to Glenbrook Station, 27km away. While it is possible to run this in reverse, I highly recommend starting at Woodford to get the most gravity assistance you can get! Make sure you recover over a coffee and some top food at Café 2773 in Glenbrook. The owner is a mad trail runner himself!
6. HAZLEBROOK/LAWSON: TERRACE FALLS AND FOUR WATERFALLS LOOP (9KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066410 A joining up of a number of different trails, this can be done as per the map for 9km or if you’re after a shorter run, can be broken up into two parts, but I like to join the two for maximum serenity value! While this route is only 9km in total, don’t underestimate it with it with the majority of it on tricky singletrack. The waterfalls are abundant on this route and will leave you feeling reenergised in mind and spirit! 7. WENTWORTH FALLS: CHARLES DARWIN WALK, NATIONAL PASS AND NATURE TRACK LOOP (12KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066422 A 12km loop that again can again be both shortened or extended according to taste. Start at Wilson Park on the Charles Darwin Track and follow Jamison Ck to Wentworth Falls. On the way look for crayfish and turtles in the creek. Once photos are taken at Wentworth Falls, hook onto the National Pass, which is in my opinion the most beautiful and breathtakingly stunning trail in the Blue Mountains. For an extension, take the Nature Track back around to Conservation Hut before returning via the Short Cut Track back to Charles Darwin Walk. 8. LEURA: LOCKLEYS PYLON LOOP (7KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066433 Drive on Mt Hay Rd to the Trail Head for this relatively short but stunning return trail. This trail takes you past the unusual Pinnacles rock formations and out to the flat topped Lockleys Pylon, affording you the most magnificent views of the Grose Valley. This run can be extended for the more experienced and adventurous by descending down from the Pylon via Du Faur Head into the Grose Valley.
9. KATOOMBA: 6 FOOT TRACK (45KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066446 The classic 45km route steeped in history leads runners from the Explorers Tree in Katoomba to the world renowned Jenolan Caves. Along the way you’ll cross cow paddocks, raging rivers and climb some mighty hills! Enjoy the journey in sections or in one big hit! 10. BLACKHEATH: GRAND CANYON VIA RODRIGUEZ PASS AND CLIFF TOP TRACK LOOP (12KM) https://www.strava.com/routes/4066460 An absolutely stunning walk or run that will leave you thinking you’ve been into another world. Wild, wet and steep, this is a route you’ll never forget. The journey can be shortened by not taking Rodrigues Pass and the arduous Govetts Leap climb. The real hero is the Grand Canyon section, it’s spectacular in every way!
Looking for SOMEWHERE TO STAY...
IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
13 Heritage ensuite B&B rooms including 2 room family rooms. 2 2-bedroom apartments with kitchen 4-bedroom apartment with kitchen Close to public transport Laundry facilities Reduced rate for 2nd night. 15 minutes to Katoomba. Special rate for competitors and support crew Corner of Carrington & Montgomery St, Mount Victoria Website: www. bluemountainsmanorhouse.com.au
Phone:0247871369 Email: stay@bluemountainsmanorhouse.com.au
-stay-
where to lay your weary head THE CARRINGTON HOTEL Katoomba P: (02) 4782 1111
3 SISTERS MOTEL Katoomba P: (02) 4782 2911
THE FAIRMONT RESORT Leura P: (02) 4785 0000
THE BEST WESTERN ALPINE MOTOR INN Katoomba P: (02) 4782 2011
THE MOUNTAIN HERITAGE Katoomba P: (02) 4782 2155 WALDORF LEURA GARDENS RESORT Leura P: (02) 4784 4000 BLUE MOUNTAINS YHA Katoomba P: (02) 4782 1416
ECHOES BOUTIQUE HOTEL & RESTAURANT Katoomba P: (02) 4782 1966 KCC/CMS EVENT ACCOMMODATION Affordable bunk & family rooms (02) 4782 2188
PALAIS ROYALE Katoomba P: (02) 4784 6300 3 EXPLORERS MOTEL Katoomba P: (02) 4782 1733
T H E C A R R I N G T O N H O T E L · B L U E M O U N TA I N S 15-47 Katoomba Street, Katoomba NSW 2780 Australia T: 02 4782 1111 · www.thecarrington.com.au
THE GRAND DINING ROOM
ACCOMMODATION
BAROQUE FUNCTION ROOM
CARRINGTON CELLARS & DELI
CHAMPAGNE CHARLIE’S COCKTAIL BAR
OLD CITY BANK BRASSERIE
OLD CITY BANK BAR
KATOOMBA BREWING CO. LOCAL BEER ON TAP
GRAND HIGH TEA SERVED EVERY SUNDAY
a day in the blue mountains There’s plenty to see and do in this tourist mecca, so choosing the best of the bunch can be difficult. Here, Dave Byrne gives us his ideal day in the mountains! Start with an early morning stroll on the Prince Henry Cliff Walk. The spectacular views and crisp air will energise you for the day ahead and with a few kilometres in the legs you’ll have earned a hearty meal. Which brings me to the next item on the agenda, breakfast at Lily’s Pad in Leura. The fresh, homemade produce is delicious with my picks being the Mojito mocktail and Canadian breakfast. With fuel in the tank you’ll be ready for a bit more activity, and the ideal place to spend the middle of the day is Scenic World. There’s loads to do there, for individuals or families, with walks, the Skyway, Railway and also light meals.
Once you’ve spent the best part of a few hours exploring Scenic World you’ll be keen for some downtime, so grab a coffee at Cassiopeia in Katoomba and relax. From here, head to the Street Art Walk in Beverley Place, Katoomba. It’s a great collection of graffiti art, on par with the best you’ll find in the middle of the city, plus it’s free to check out. This brings us to late afternoon. Head back to your accommodation for a quick shower ahead of a night on the town. For pre-dinner drinks, grab a beer or glass of wine at the Station Bar in Katoomba. It’s always lively and with lots of beverage options you’re sure to find something you like. From there head to Leura Garage for dinner. It’s my favourite restaurant in town and if you’ve got the time and are feeling hungry, get amongst the banquet menu!
STAY - PLAY - RELAX Create memorable and unique experiences at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. Explore the extensive 9.5 hectares of grounds and gardens in this awardwinning resort with outstanding leisure facilities and dining options. Call our reservations team to book before 31st March 2016 and quote ULT110516 to receive 10% off your stay.
BOOK NOW: 02 4785 0000 1 Sublime Point Rd, Leura Tel: 02 4785 0000 Email: reservations@fairmontresort.com.au www.fairmontresort.com.au www.mgallery.com #fairmontresortleura
EVENT ACCOMMODATION AT KCC AND CMS LOCATED RIGHT BESIDE THE ULTRA-TRAIL AUSTRALIA EVENT HUB AND START/FINISH LINE Special packages are available covering the event weekend or for the full 5 day festival ♦ Spectacular valley views ♦ Central yet secluded location just five minutes stroll to town centre ♦ Award winning 4½ Star accommodation
Details can be found on the UTA website! www.ultratrailaustralia.com.au/uta/accommodation-travel
♦ Guest rooms with choice of bath & shower or spa bath, remote control full air conditioning & windows which open for fresh mountain air. Many rooms with views, many with real flame fireplaces ♦ Licensed a la carte restaurant and cocktail bar ♦ Guest lounge areas with open fireplaces ♦ Exercise room ♦ Garden terraces ♦ Day spa and beauty treatment centre
AFFORDABLE BUNK-STYLE ACCOMMODATION!