AuthorsLara PiconeL

Lara Picone

Travel Journalist

Working for many of Australia’s top publications, Lara Picone has had the distinct pleasure of writing, editing and curating content about the finer things in life for more than 15 years. Graduating from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, her editorial foundation began at Qantas: The Australian Way magazine, before moving on to learn the fast-paced ropes of a weekly magazine at Sunday Magazine and picking up the art of brand curation at donna hay magazine. Pivoting a near-problematic travel lust into a career move by combining it with storytelling and a curious appetite, her next role was as Deputy Editor of SBS Feast magazine and later Online Editor of SBS Food online. She then stepped into her dream job as Editor of Australian Traveller before becoming Online Editor for both International Traveller and Australian Traveller. Now as a freelancer, Lara always has her passport at-the-ready to take flight on assignment for the Australian Traveller team, as well as for publications such as Qantas Magazine, Escape and The Weekend Australian. As ever, her appetite is the first thing she packs.
Echoes Restaurant and Bar, Katoomba
Blue Mountains

The best restaurants in the Blue Mountains 

Inspired by the stunning landscape and rich produce of the region, these beautiful Blue Mountains restaurants invite diners to relish local flavours with their innovative menus.

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Top spots for the most exquisite high tea in the Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains

Top spots for the most exquisite high tea in the Blue Mountains

Top off your afternoon with one of these Blue Mountains high teas, whether you seek a luxurious setting with sprawling mountain views or a cosy teahouse complete with fireplace.

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Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains pool view
Blue Mountains

14 incredible Katoomba stays to try for yourself

Base yourself at one of these incredible Katoomba stays as you discover the stunning Blue Mountains beyond.

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Boiler Haus Restaurant in Katoomba
Blue Mountains

11 excellent Katoomba restaurants to dine at now

Whether you fancy a fine dining affair or a more low-key night out, you’ll find a menu to whet your appetite in the beautiful mountain-side town of Katoomba.

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Kedumba River Crossing Campground, Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains

15 Blue Mountains camping spots for a nature-packed trip

With vast national parks pocketed with idyllic spots to pitch a tent, camping is one of the best ways to experience the Blue Mountains.

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Wollemi Artisan Markets, Katoomba
Blue Mountains

15 must-visit markets in the Blue Mountains by town

With a collection of weekly, monthly and yearly markets rotating through the Blue Mountains, you’re sure to discover one during your stay.

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avo toast at Lily’s Pad, Leura
Blue Mountains

9 cosy Leura cafes to start the day at

For Leura-based explorations of the Blue Mountains, these seven cafes will top up your caffeine levels and fortify your day with delicious food.

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External view of Kirk's Wine Bar in Hardware Lane Melbourne
Melbourne

This is the best Aussie city to visit in winter – it’s even better than Hobart

Come winter, Melbourne doesn’t hibernate – it elevates. Here’s how to make the most of this city’s cool-weather culture.

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34 things every visitor must do in the Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains

Things to do in the Blue Mountains: Waterfalls, cellar doors and glow worms

More than just a beauty to behold, the Blue Mountains is a place of activity and adventure.

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