Finding where to stay in the Blue Mountains as a first-time visitor can be a headache. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find safe places to stay in the Blue Mountains for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in the Blue Mountains for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in the Blue Mountains and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.
The Blue Mountains is a stunning region located in New South Wales, just west of Sydney. Renowned for its dramatic scenery, lush forests, and iconic blue haze created by the eucalyptus oils in the air, the Blue Mountains are a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Perhaps the most famous natural landmark in the Blue Mountains, the Three Sisters are a rock formation that stands tall and majestic. Legend has it that three sisters from the local Aboriginal community were turned to stone to protect them during a battle, hence the name.
Another tourist attraction is the Scenic World, which includes the Scenic Skyway, Scenic Railway, Scenic Cableway, and Scenic Walkway. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the valleys, waterfalls, and forests from different perspectives.
Some popular towns are Katoomba, Wentworth Falls, and the garden town Leura. Katoomba is the largest town in the Blue Mountains, and serves as a gateway for exploring the region.
The Blue Mountains offer a plethora of bushwalking trails suitable for all levels of fitness and experience. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a multi-day hike, there’s something for everyone, with trails leading to waterfalls, viewpoints, and through ancient forests.
The Jenolan Caves, while not technically part of the Blue Mountains, are located nearby and are well worth a visit. These limestone caves feature spectacular formations and underground rivers, and guided tours are available for visitors.
Are Blue Mountains safe to visit?
Yes, the Blue Mountains are generally safe to visit. But, like any other natural area, it’s essential to take appropriate precautions, such as staying on marked trails, being aware of wildlife, carrying enough water and supplies, and following any guidelines provided by local park authorities.
Some areas of the Blue Mountains have steep cliffs and drop-offs. Exercise caution when near these edges, especially if taking photographs. During the dry season, bushfires can occur. Stay informed about fire alerts and follow any instructions from local authorities.
Where to stay in the Blue Mountains for the first time?
The best and safe areas to stay in the Blue Mountains for first-timers and tourists are Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls, and Blackheath. These areas offer a range of accommodations and amenities, making them great locations for visitors to book their accommodations and explore the region.
Katoomba is one of the most popular towns in the Blue Mountains and serves as a great base for exploring the region. It’s home to iconic attractions like the Three Sisters and Scenic World. Katoomba also offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to boutique hotels.
Leura, just a short drive or train ride from Katoomba, is known for its quaint village atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and boutique shops. You can explore Leura Mall, visit Leura Cascades, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Everglades Historic House & Gardens.
Wentworth Falls is named after the impressive Wentworth Falls, which can be reached via various walking tracks offering breathtaking views. Wentworth Falls village has a charming atmosphere with cafes, galleries, and guesthouses, making it a relaxing base for exploring the region.
Blackheath is located at a higher altitude than Katoomba and Leura. It offers cooler temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a great base for hiking adventures in spots like Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout.
During my trip to the Blue Mountains, I stayed at the mid-range Carrington Hotel. The hotel had a central location, right in the middle of the town, and a couple of minutes from the train station. The room was clean, spacious with a nice sized bathroom.
Below is a map of the popular areas in the Blue Mountains for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in the Blue Mountains, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Blue Mountains have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
4 Best areas to stay in Blue Mountains for first-timers and tourists:
1. Katoomba
Katoomba is undoubtedly the best place to stay in the Blue Mountains for first-time visitors. It offers convenient access to many of the region’s top attractions including the Three Sisters, Scenic World, and Echo Point Lookout.
Katoomba serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails catering to various skill levels. Popular trails include the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, which offers stunning views of the cliffs and waterfalls, the challenging Federal Pass track, and the Giant Stairway, which descends into the Jamison Valley.
The town of Katoomba has a vibrant dining scene with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and eateries serving delicious cuisine. Visitors can also explore the eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and boutiques along Katoomba Street.
Katoomba is well-connected by train and bus services, making it easy to reach from Sydney and other parts of the Blue Mountains. Once you’re in Katoomba, many attractions are within walking distance or a short drive away.
Best places to stay in Blue Mountains in Katoomba for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): Carrington Hotel, popular 4-star heritage hotel with beautiful decor. located on Katoomba Street, close to Katoomba Train Station. It has multiple restaurants/bars and a performance space. Rooms are very comfortable and have everything you need.
Mid-range ($$): Mountain Heritage Hotel, 4-star hotel located within walking distance to the center of Katoomba, railway station, and numerous main tourist attractions in the area. It has an Outdoor swimming pool, family rooms, and very good breakfast. Rooms have beautiful views of the mountains.
Luxury ($$$): Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa, 5-star country house in Katoomba, within walking distance of three sisters and the main Echo Point view. Easy access to nice restaurants and bars. It has 2 restaurants, an outdoor pool, free parking, and very good breakfast.
Luxury ($$): Winston Cottage at Three Sisters, 5-star good value for money holiday home, located very close to the famous Three Sisters lookout, easy access to Katoomba Scenic World and the Cable Car. It has a beautiful backyard garden, a gas log fireplace, gazebo, veranda, and free parking.
Budget ($): Sky Rider Motor Inn, 3-star accommodation located in the Blue Mountains, 10 mins drive from both Echo Point, the Scenic Railway, and the Three Sisters. It has beautiful gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, BBQ area, and comfortable air conditioned rooms.
Budget ($): YHA Blue Mountains Katoomba, backpacker hostel located in an Art Deco heritage-listed building, 20 mins walk from Three Sisters and Katoomba Scenic World Railway. Easily accessible from the train station. It has dorm rooms, free onsite parking, and a communal kitchen.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN KATOOMBA2. Leura
Leura is a delightful base for first-time visitors and tourists exploring the Blue Mountains region. It is a charming village with various boutique shops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants.
Leura is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including manicured gardens, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery. The Leura Cascades and Gordon Falls are within easy reach, offering peaceful spots for relaxation and scenic walks.
The town is also famous for its historic buildings, including the Everglades Historic House & Gardens, which is a heritage-listed property featuring beautiful gardens designed by renowned Danish-born landscape gardener Paul Sorensen.
Compared to the bustling tourist hub of Katoomba, Leura offers a more tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Best places to stay in Blue Mountains in Leura:
Mid-range ($$): Sinofield Edu-Retreat, 4-star accommodation in Leura, featuring spacious rooms with comfortable beds. Quiet location but super close to everything.
Mid-range ($$): Leura Gardens Resort, 4-star hotel in Leura, easy 30 min walk to the mall. It has an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
Luxury ($$$): Mountain Whispers Varenna Luxury, 5-star vacation home in Leura, great base for families and groups of friends. It offers 4 bedrooms, airport transfers, and bicycle rental services.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN LEURA3. Wentworth Falls
Wentworth Falls is an excellent choice for first-timers and tourists who appreciate natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a tranquil atmosphere. Compared to the more touristy towns like Katoomba and Leura, Wentworth Falls offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere.
Wentworth Falls is home to its namesake waterfall, which is one of the most spectacular in the Blue Mountains. You can enjoy scenic walks to various lookout points offering stunning views of the falls and the surrounding valley.
The area around Wentworth Falls offers a plethora of bushwalking trails suitable for all levels of fitness. The National Pass and Charles Darwin Walk are popular choices, providing opportunities to explore the rugged beauty of the Blue Mountains.
Best places to stay in Blue Mountains in Wentworth Falls:
Mid-range ($$): Falls Mountain Retreat Blue Mountains, popular 4-star hotel in Wentworth Falls, featuring self-contained studios and apartments with an open fireplace and kitchen facilities. It is within walking distance from walking trails and waterfalls. You can easily enjoy nearby activities such as horse riding, fishing, mountain bike riding, abseiling and rock climbing.
Mid-range ($$): Valley of the Waters B&B, 4-star guest house conveniently located at the start of the Blue Mountains’ rainforest and waterfall bush walks. It has wonderful breakfast, free parking, and stunning views of the Jamison Valley towards the Southern Highlands.
Mid-range ($$): The Wentworth Retreat, 4-star good value for money accommodation in Yanko Avenue, featuring a spacious vacation home with 2 bedrooms,an equipped kitchen, and an outdoor dining area. Close to everything but peaceful and tucked away in nature.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN WENTWORTH FALLS4. Blackheath
Blackheath is home to some of the most breathtaking lookouts in the Blue Mountains, including Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout. These vantage points offer panoramic views of the Grose Valley and its imposing sandstone cliffs, particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset.
With its proximity to the wilderness of the Blue Mountains National Park, Blackheath provides access to a variety of hiking and bushwalking trails. The Grand Canyon track, Govetts Leap descent, and Braeside walking track are just a few examples of the scenic trails awaiting exploration.
The Blackheath Rhododendron Festival held annually in November celebrates the town’s vibrant community spirit and natural beauty.
Additionally, Blackheath is home to several historic sites, including the Blackheath Rhododendron Gardens and the Hydro Majestic Hotel, which dates back to the early 20th century.
Best places to stay in Blue Mountains in Blackheath:
Mid-range ($$): Kyah, popular 4-star motel located on a quiet backstreet in the bohemian Blackheath at the corner of Evans Lookout and Valley View Rd. The rooms are beautiful and clean.
Mid-range ($$): Federation Gardens & Possums Hideaway, 4-star accommodation located on Evans Lookout Road, 5 mins drive from Blackheath town center. It has self-contained cottages, a tennis court and heated pool.
Luxury ($$$): Brantwood Cottage Luxury Accommodation, 5-star Holiday Home in Blackheath, featuring 3 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, 1 bathroom, and a fireplace. The cottage had everything that you would need. Great place for a relaxing stay.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN BLACKHEATHIn conclusion, Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls, and Blackheath are the best places to stay in the Blue Mountains for first-timers and tourists. These are generally safe areas for visitors to book their accommodations and explore the mountains.
You can continue reading about other destinations in Australia in these articles:
- Best places to stay in Sydney
- Best places to stay in Melbourne
- Best places to stay in Gold Coast
- Best places to stay in Byron Bay
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to the Blue Mountains. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.