Inspirational Views

some of the most scenic spots in the Mountains.

Photos by Denys Joannes

If you want to experience a short tour of the vantage points along the upper Blue Mountains cliff line, start early, because there is a lot to see. Pack a picnic for later, and as you travel along the escarpment, choose a picnic spot you like best. The route links landmarks chosen by our early track builders for their uniqueness, splendour and exceptional scenery.

Start at Wentworth Falls, with the short 20 minute walk down to Princes Rock Lookout, and look deep into Prince Regents Glen below the waterfall. The lookout was built for the first royal visit to Australia by Alfred Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, son of Queen Victoria, in 1867, during his round-the-world voyage. The view from the lookout over Wentworth Falls and the Grand Staircase on National Pass is superb!

Off Kings Tableland Road which departs the Great Western Highway a the top of Bodington Hill, is Flat Rock also known as Lincoln’s Rock. This is an massive basically flat rock shelf offering an extensive scenic outlook. Please take great care near edges as this area is not fenced. Using common sense regarding safety this is a view not to be missed.

Now to Sublime Point in Leura, again with just a short, and mostly level walk to the lookout. Sublime Point is at the end of Sublime (above) The fabulous view from Govetts Leap lookout, Blackheath (below) Katoomba Falls

(below) Such tranquillity. You might notice the tree on the far side of the creek which clings to life, it’s roots grasping the rock for nourishment and grip

Point Road, not far from the turn-off to Fairmont Resort. The view across Jamison Valley, to Mount Solitary, framed by the Three Sisters on the right, and the cliffs of Kings Tableland, extends over 270 degrees, a fabulous horizon. There are picnic areas on the way to the lookout too.

Return to the car and off to Leura Cascades, most easily reached by following Leura Mall south of the township, and joining up with Cliff Drive. Go slowly here and turn left into Chelmsford Drive, and cross the bridge of the same name. This was where the two council swimming pools were once located, (one for males, one for females), filled by the cold waters of Leura Creek. The creek begins a delightful series of cascades, which can be seen from the walkways. From the picnic area is a medium walk along the boardwalk to Bridal Veil Falls: it is well signposted; allow about an hour to see it and return to the picnic area.

Continue following Cliff Drive, pause at Honeymoon Lookout for more expansive cliff views. You may choose to stop at Echo Point, Katoomba’s major tourism precinct, or continue onto Reids Plateau, located behind the kiosk at the top of Katoomba Falls. You know you are in the right place when you see the caravan and camping park.

It takes a few minutes to climb up to Reids Plateau with its views of Katoomba Falls, and lookouts above Witches Leap. You can even catch sight of the Scenic Skyway as it crosses the 270 metre deep gorge. With an hour to spare, you could walk down the Furber Steps to the Scenic World platform, and catch a train back up! (The last train leaves at 4.50pm - fare applies.) It’s a 10 minute walk from Scenic World back to the caravan park surrounds. Need more places? Just keep following Cliff Drive, and stop at the lookouts.

The first past Scenic World is Eagle Hawk, then Hildas Lookout, then the extraordinary Landslide Lookout. This section of vertical cliff collapsed in 1931, maybe as a result of the Daylight Tunnel associated with the coal mining in the cliffs below. The lookout is built on the very edge of the cliff here. (Take care with your kids, especially where there are no fences.) The very best views of this enormous landslide are from the cliffs at Narrow Neck, and you can drive there via Glen Raphael Drive, a gravel road off Cliff Drive. This road ends at the locked gate, vehicles are not allowed, but you are invited to walk or pedal the 9 kilometres to the end.

Probably the most rewarding and easily accessed lookout is located at Blackheath, at the end of Govetts Leap Road. With vast views up to the Grose Valley, Mt Banks and Mt Hay and Govetts Leap Waterfall to the right, this view is simply breath-taking. Also at Blackheath is the spectacular Anvil Rock Lookout affording 180̊ view along the steep and rugged Grose Valley. Accessed by a five minute easy walk from the carpark at the end of Hat Hill Road, also a short walk from this carpark is the amazing Wind Eroded Cave. Take the three minute walk, it’s worth the small effort.

This landscape is recognised globally as part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Its universal value lies in its unique record of Australia’s ongoing evolution and continuing biodiversity. Over 1 million hectares of national parks and reserves make up the area. It would take a lifetime to see it all. If you want to find out more about our fascinating area, call into the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, end of Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath for more information, maps, and guidebooks - and to say g’day to the friendly staff.

(above) Warragamba Lake from near McMahons Lookout, taken using a fisheye lens