Leura

Located just east of Katoomba on the edge of the Blue Mountains National Park, Leura is arguably the prettiest village in the Blue Mountains. It’s resplendent with character-filled heritage homes, glorious cool climate gardens and a National Trust-classified town centre lined with cherry trees that sends Instagrammers into a frenzy during blossom season.

Blooming gorgeous

The magnificent seasonal colour is on public display during the annual Spring Gardens Festival, but many gardens are open throughout the year. Don’t miss the historic art deco house, Everglades, which draws on the great tradition of European garden design through the visionary work of Danish gardener, Paul Sorensen.

The verdant garden at Leuralla Toy and Railway Museum is also a gorgeous place to wander; while the staggering collection of toys, dolls and railway memorabilia inside the heritage home will delight both the young and young at heart. Opposite the Toy Museum you’ll find Elysian and Olympic Lookouts, offering incredible views of the Jamison Valley and the rear end of the Three Sisters.

More incredible vistas can be taken in from the aptly-named Sublime Point; while Gordon Falls tumbles 200 metres down the escarpment and marks the end of the seven-kilometre Prince Henry Cliff Walk from Katoomba. For a tranquil picnic, spread your blanket under soaring gums eucalypts at pretty Leura Cascades.

Retail therapy

Leura is also the Mountain’s most vibrant shopping centre, with a host of eclectic homewares, fashion and antique shops. Browse for gifts and retro clothing, marvel at the extensive teapot collection at Bygone Beautys, or stock up on delicious homemade chocolates at Josophan’s.

Food for the soul

Leura Gourmet looks like a regular cafe on the main street, but the seating area at the back has spectacular views over the valley through floor-to-ceiling windows. It's the place for breakfast and lunch, or you can pick up local gourmet treats to take with you. To capture the botanical essence of the village, don’t miss brunch at Sorensen’s Glasshouse, a plant nursery tucked away in a shady back street. Warm up with the best hot chocolate in the Blue Mountains at Josophan's or enjoy a cocktail at the cosy Polar Bear of Leura.

Where to stay

You’ll find some of the finest accommodation in the Blue Mountains in Leura, from family-friendly resorts such as Fairmont Resort & Spa, to cosy guesthouses and self-contained cottages. There are also many secluded and romantic cottages nestled amongst the gorgeous ferns and bushland surrounding the town. 

Getting there

Leura is a 1hr 40min drive from Sydney and is less than 5min from Katoomba. It is also easily accessed by train from Central Station on the Blue Mountains line, and the journey takes around two hours.