Blackheath

Blackheath is a beautiful village with a bohemian soul, punching well above its weight with cool cafes, galleries and local markets. It’s also surrounded by some of the most spectacular wilderness and jaw-dropping lookouts in the Blue Mountains National Park, including Govetts Leap with its far-reaching views over the densely-carpeted Grose Valley.

Spectacular hikes

Nearby, the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre offers advice and information about world-class bushwalks, including the Clifftop Trail from Govetts Leap to Evans Lookout and the rainforest-clad Grand Canyon Track. (Note that some popular tracks, such as the trail to Pulpit Rock, were badly damaged during the 2019/2020 bushfires, and still remain closed as the vulnerable landscape recovers.)

Couple enjoying a guided walk along the Grand Canyon Walking track in the Blue Mountains with Tread Lightly Eco Tours.

Local style

Blackheath’s eclectic shopping scene is all about local and retro. Visit the Victory Theatre Antique Centre, adorned with a colourful Jenny Kee mural, for quality antiques and collectibles, or make a pilgrimage on the second Sunday from February to December for the popular Blackheath Growers Market.

The fresh and local theme continues in Blackheath’s vibrant dining scene in inner city-worthy cafes such as Anonymous and Blackheath General Store; relax over a local cider or wine at the bustling Blackheath Bar & Bistro; or enjoy travel-inspired fine dining at Cinnabar Kitchen.

Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges at Blackheath in Katoomba Area, Blue Mountains

Seasonal colour

With its oak-lined main street and bountiful cool-climate gardens, Blackheath is ablaze with colour in autumn and spring, attracting visitors keen to capture an Instagram moment. Celebrate the beauty as well as the quirky local culture at the annual Rhododendron Festival; or visit the lovely Campbell Rhododendron Gardens to admire its displays of deciduous trees and exotic botanica.

Aerial view of the Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath and Megalong Valley in the Blue Mountains

Getting there & where to stay

Blackheath is a 1hr 40min drive from Sydney and just 10min from Katoomba, passing the grand white edifice of the Hydro Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath. You can also catch the train direct from Central Station, which takes around 2hr 15min.

Blackheath offers plentiful accommodation, including the secluded Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges as well as countless self-contained cottages and cabins such as the spectacularly-located Woolshed Cabins in nearby Kanimbla Valley.