Blue Mountains accommodation: 14 stunning places to book now

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From luxury hotels to family-friendly resorts and stylish holiday homes, this is the best accommodation in the Blue Mountains.

Named for the subtle blue haze that has settled over its landscape – from the evaporating oils of the eucalypt trees in its lush forests – the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is a must-visit destination.

Families will have a fun-filled stay, visiting the famous Three Sisters and riding the steepest passenger train in the world; it’s an idyllic place for a romantic getaway with crisp mountain air and cosy fireplaces to snuggle before; it’s a bushwalking mecca, with sheer sandstone escarpments, deep valleys and gushing waterfalls; and the perfect location to take a reset.

1. Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa, Katoomba

Best for: Couples, heritage charm, central location

When it comes to the best location to stay in the Blue Mountains, Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa can’t be beat. This historic hotel  sits on an escarpment overlooking the Jamison Valley, just a 500-metre walk to the Three Sisters and Scenic World and in Katoomba, where you’ll find plenty of places to dine, too.

The hotel is housed within a heritage-listed homestead and its style reflects this old-world charm, with decorative wallpapers and traditional furnishings. While there are ample things to do in Katoomba, the hotel has two swimming pools, a tennis court, day spa and handful of places to dine and drink, so you’ll be forgiven for not wanting to leave.

the pool at Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa, Katoomba
Soak up the sun on warmer days in the onsite pool. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 5-19 Lilianfels Avenue, Katoomba

2. Kyah Boutique Hotel, Blackheath

Best for: Families, couples, style

This could be the Blue Mountains’ coolest accommodation. The Kyah Boutique Hotel opened in 2022 in Blackheath, which has some excellent dining options and some great bushwalks. But the best bit about Kyah its range – with affordable and stylish rooms for families and groups of friends.

With a style inspired by Palm Springs but with its Australian mountain surroundings in mind, The Kyah is all soothing earthy and pastel tones, curves and accents of gold. There’s a restaurant onsite, which has a menu centred around local produce and ingredients from the garden.

the bedroom at Kyah Boutique Hotel, Blackheath
The sleek and chic Kyah Boutique Hotel is accentuated with pastels and earthy tones. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

Address: 13-17 Brightlands Ave, Blackheath

3. Hydro Majestic, Medlow Bath

Best for: Heritage charm, luxury, mountain views

Teetering on the edge of an escarpment with breathtaking views of Megalong Valley, Hydro Majestic is the mountain’s most iconic stay. Reopening in 2014 after years of abandonment, the historic hotel was restored to its former glory, with a range of stylish guest rooms.

It’s well worth a visit, even if only to enjoy high tea in the Wintergarden or a cocktail in the notorious Cats Alley. The hotel is located in Medlow Bath, between the towns of Katoomba and Blackheath, and is a great base to explore the best things to do in the Blue Mountains.

an aerial view of Hydro Majestic, Medlow Bath
Hydro Majestic overlooks the mighty Megalong Valley. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 52-88 Great Western Hwy, Medlow Bath

4. Parklands Country Garden & Lodges, Blackheath

Best for: Heritage charm, families, couples

Set on 11 hectares of manicured gardens, Parklands in Blackheath is both a romantic escape for couples and a comfy stay for families. The suites can sleep up to four people and ooze country charm, with fireplaces and bay windows overlooking the leafy grounds.

Breakfast is served in the sun-lit Lakeview Breakfast Room and there is also a tranquil day spa onsite. The lodge’s location is central to the village of Blackheath and is close to many bushwalking tracks, such as the spectacular Govetts Leap Lookout just down the road.

the Parklands Country Garden & Lodges, Blackheath
There is plenty of space to roam at Parklands Country Garden & Lodges.

Address: 132 Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath

5. Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains, Leura

Best for: Families, mountain views, affordability

Located in the charming town of Leura, the Fairmont is arguably the most family-friendly resort in the Blue Mountains. You could easily spend your entire stay at the resort , flitting between the pool, indoor and outdoor playgrounds, jungle gym, arcade games and miniature train.

There are many room types to choose from, including an epic Family Suite, multiple dining venues, a cosy lobby lounge and an underground whisky bar. There’s also an 18-hole course for golf lovers.

an aerial view of Fairmont Resort in Leura across the Jamison Valley
Take in incredible views of the Jamison Valley at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 1 Sublime Point Road, Leura

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6. Love Cabins, Bilpin

Best for: Couples, seclusion, unique accommodation

Step into a real-life fairytale at the Love Cabins , set across 240 hectares of private bushland near Bilpin. The Treehouse is a favourite stay, set high in the treetops and resplendent in natural woods, with an incredible outdoor spa, too.

From Sydney, the Love Cabins can be reached via the scenic Bells Line of Road, an idyllic Blue Mountains road trip that will take you past apple cideries, roadside shops and lookouts with incredible views.

Treehouse is an adults-only escape in the Blue Mountains.
Treehouse is an adults-only escape in the Blue Mountains.

Address: The cabins are located on two properties in Mountain Lagoon and Berambing, near Bilpin

7. Spicers Sangoma, Bowen Mountain

Best for: Couples, adults-only, luxury

Sangoma is named after the Zulu word for healer, which indicates what a stay at Spicers Sangoma is all about. Wedged between the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury River, the seclusion of this adults-only retreat is all part of the charm.

There are just eight suites, each with deep baths and fireplaces, an onsite restaurant serving local produce and a restorative spa. Guests can spend their time with zen activities such as yoga and meditation or bushwalking and canyoning.

a woman dipping in the tub at Spicers Sangoma, Bowen Mountain
The luxe bathtub is a standout feature. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 70 Grandview Lane, Bowen Mountain

8. Logan Brae Retreats, Mt Kanimbla

Best for: Couples, families, mountain views

Logan Brae Retreats is set on 14 hectares atop Mt Kanimbla, located west of Blackheath. There are two cabins, Hilltop Cabin and Woodlands Cabin, both perfect for a romantic getaway.

Each cabin features warm timbers and stone walls, a deep indoor bathtub, fireplace and mineral plunge pool with sweeping views. The Lodge can sleep up to eight and has a barbecue with outdoor dining, billiards table, fireplace, kitchen and private plunge pool. All stays include breakfast and a picnic on arrival.

a Hilltop Cabin in Logan Brae Retreats, Mt Kanimbla
Take a dip in the plunge pool overlooking sweeping views of the Blue Mountains.

Address: 43 Megalong Place, Kanimbla

9. Cloud Parade, Leura

Best for: Families, mountain views, style

Its name will give you a hint to its location, located high on an escarpment in the Blue Mountains with views of Mt Solitary and the Three Sisters. Cloud Parade is a short walk to the quaint town of Leura, which is home to an abundance of boutique shops, and Gordon Falls is just down the road.

Sleeping 10 guests, this uber-stylish stay is great for groups of friends and families, with a full kitchen, laundry and open fireplace for the cooler months. It’s also a quick drive to Katoomba, where families can spend the day at Scenic World.

a bed with a huge window at Cloud Parade, Leura
Wake up next to scenic mountain views at Cloud Parade.

Address: Leura (address given upon booking confirmation)

10. Echoes Boutique Hotel, Katoomba

Best for: Mountain views, central location, affordability

Echoes Boutique Hotel sits atop one of a sheer escarpment on theedge of Katoomba. Welcoming guests since the 1990s, the guest rooms are simple and comfortable, with panoramic views from private balconies making up for the style. Echoes Restaurant and Bar is located onsite and serves a menu of Australian cuisine with Asian influences.

the scenic grounds of Echoes Boutique Hotel and Restaurant, Katoomba in the Blue Mountains
Echoes Boutique Hotel is wrapped in well-manicured gardens. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 3 Lilianfels Ave, Katoomba

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11. Little Black Cabin, Blackheath

Best for: Couples, seclusion, style

This 120-year-old cottage was restored and given an architectural makeover to become a sleek tiny stay. Sleeping just two guests, the Little Black Cabin has views of the Megalong Valley, an outdoor fireplace, projector for movies, rain shower with heated bathroom floor and laundry. It’s an easy walk into Blackheath to grab a meal or browse the shops, and at the foot of many bush trails.

the Little Black Cabin, Blackheath
Opt to stay in the luxurious and cosy Little Black Cabin.

Address: Blackheath (address given upon booking confirmation)

12. Norwood Arthouse, Blackheath

Best for: Heritage charm, families, groups

Built in 1888, this charming home is state heritage-listed  and has been restored to its original glory, with an eclectic mix of vintage furniture and curios, vibrant colours and decorative wallpapers.

There are seven en suite bedrooms which sleep 14 guests, two lounge rooms, a full kitchen, grand verandah and original indoor fireplaces. Modern comforts have been added such as air-conditioning, an espresso machine, electric vehicle chargers, solar panels and an infrared sauna.

the exterior of Norwood Arthouse in Blackheath
Step into the charming, State Heritage-listed Norwood Arthouse.

Address: Blackheath (address given upon booking confirmation)

13. Orchard Cottage, Leura

Best for: Heritage charm, families, luxury

In the heart of Leura, Orchard Cottage is a restored heritage property that accommodates up to 10 guests. It’s a light-filled space with high ceilings and white interiors; the authentic French flooring adds warmth and the bespoke furnishings elevate the luxury.

Guests can cook in the galley kitchen, on the outdoor barbecue or pizza oven, or walk into town to dine. The adorable front verandah is just begging to be sat on with a cuppa.

the exterior of Orchard Cottage, Leura
Orchard Cottage is an elegant retreat within an Australian bush setting.

Address: 112 Railway Pde, Leura

14. Eagle View Escape, Rydal

Best for: Couples, adults-only, seclusion

Dreaming of a romantic escape to the country where it feels like you’re the only two people on Earth? Eagle View Escape is an adults-only stay nestled on a 40-hectare property in Rydal, 45 minutes north-west of Katoomba.

It comprises five self-contained suites with views of the surrounding valley and lake, each with cosy fireplaces and spa baths. Bunker down in your boutique suite and take advantage of the self-cook packs and picnic hampers, as well as cheese and wine platters.

Address: 271 Sandalls Drive, Rydal

Are cosy cabins more of your vibe? We’ve listed our favourite Blue Mountains cabins for you here.
Megan Arkinstall
Megan Arkinstall is a freelance travel writer who you’ll often find at the beach, bushwalking or boating with her young family. She loves reliving travel memories through writing, whether that be sipping limoncello in a sun-drenched courtyard of Monterosso or swimming with green turtles in the aquamarine waters of Tropical North Queensland.
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Where to eat, sleep and visit on Grand Pacific Drive, and beyond

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
    The ultimate road trip begins and ends on NSW’s stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

    Whales, charming villages, fine wine and stunning natural vistas: there’s a lot to love about a road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales. Winding from the Royal National Park through Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven before heading inland to the Southern Highlands, this scenic drive makes for an unforgettable road trip.

    But like all great road trips, it’s not just about the drive but the stops made along the way. From incredible farm-to-plate (and grape-to-glass) dining options to unbeatable natural vistas and quaint towns with beautiful accommodation, there’s plenty to explore en route.

    Shellharbour Marina
    Spend time in Shellharbour Marina.

    Where to eat

    What is a road trip without incredible food? Whether you’re after fresh seafood, slow-cooked paddock-to-plate feasts or delicious wines, you’ll find something around every bend along Grand Pacific Drive.

    Restaurant Santino is a local Wollongong secret we can’t keep quiet any longer. With a fresh take on Italian cuisine, servings are hearty and flavours are comforting. The chitarra with blue swimmer crab, garlic, chilli, parsley and crustacean oil is a crowd favourite.

    Keep it local in Shellharbour with a menu all about fresh local produce at Relish on Addison . From South Coast oysters and blue swimmer crab linguine to crispy pork belly, surf and turf takes on an elevated meaning here.

    Kiama’s neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, Little Betty’s , is just as good for a tasty share plate as it is for creative cocktails. The signature Grilled Octopus with burnt honey, garlic confit and sautéed Asian greens is worth a trip on its own.

    Only the best will do in Shoalhaven, where multi-award-winning Bangalay Dining uses native Australian ingredients to bring its dishes to life. Start with the Smoked trout croquette before moving on to the sautéed potato gnocchi. Don’t forget the white chocolate mousse for dessert.

    Meanwhile, the Southern Highlands are full of culinary highlights. From dining on incredibly fresh, local fare (we’re talking ingredients plucked from the team’s on-site kitchen garden or sourced through local producers) at Eschalot Restaurant in Berrima to creating gin blends at Millsheds Distillery .

    bangalay dining shoalhaven
    Taste native flavours at Bangalay Dining.

    Exploring nature

    Scenery is everything when hitting the road, and Grand Pacific Drive serves it up in spades. Drivers don’t even have to leave the car to enjoy the iconic ocean views from Seacliff Bridge (but several lookouts make it easy to stop).

    Seaside Kiama boasts stunning beaches and famous blowholes. But travellers can also swap ocean for rainforest when taking the Minnamurra Rainforest walk, culminating in a picturesque waterfall. Or soar overhead at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures .

    The scenic coastal drive along Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
    Cruise along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

    Between May and November, 30,000 whales make their way passed the South Coast between May and November. Spot them from the coastal shores or join a whale-watching cruise from Shellharbour Marina or Jervis Bay. Dive in with Woebegone Freedive .

    Shellharbour’s Killalea Regional Park is home to a traditional bush tucker and medicine walk with Aboriginal tour group, Gumaraa . Learn Indigenous healing practices and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and wisdom of the land’s Traditional Owners.

    Wollongong is the perfect place for hikers, with the 6.5-kilometre Wodi Wodi track serving up views, settler history and a variety of landscapes in one loop. If you prefer, skip the walk and pull up at Bald Hill Lookout for expansive views south towards Wollongong (and a hang-glider or two).

    For something truly unique, join the Highland Cow experience at The Swallow’s Nest in the Southern Highlands. In a brand-new offering, get a taste of farm life and help groom and feed these gorgeous creatures.

    kiama coast walk people with dog
    Wander the Kiama Coast Walk.

    Unique experiences

    No need to choose between an adrenaline rush or a culture fix, Grand Pacific Drive serves up both.

    Soar into aviation history at Shellharbour’s HARS Aviation Museum .  Tour the museum, then join a guided walk onto the wing of the record-breaking Qantas Boeing 747 and see the significant historic aircraft up close.

    If ever there was a place to skydive, it’s in Wollongong. Dive from 15,000 feet (tandem, of course) with Sky Dive Wollongong and see the coastal beauty of this region from above.

    Shoalhaven’s Bundanon Art Museum has to be one of the most unique offerings in the country. The legacy of artist Arthur Boyd and more than just a gallery, find eco-accommodation, fine dining, award-winning architecture and community here.

    Kiama’s Crooked River Estate is about more than just delicious wine.  Grab a picnic blanket and enjoy casual food and drinks with live music at Kick Back Fridays , every week.

    Between June and August, the Southern Highlands’ Robertson attracts novice truffle hunters. Join the hunt at family-owned and operated Robertson Truffles (alternatively, you can order truffle treats online, if your sense of adventure isn’t up for it).

    Freshly dug truffles at Terra Preta Truffles, Braidwood.
    Discover hidden gems beneath the soil in the Southern Highlands. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Where to stay

    Road trips are the ultimate promotion for slow travel, encouraging visitors to take their time, enjoy the journey and stop along the way to really immerse themselves in local towns.

    Find history and elegance at Berida Hotel in the Southern Highlands. Intimately set amongst gardens, but still close to the main street of Bowral, this 1920s private residence turned boutique hotel is the perfect stay.

    Stay in one of Barranca’s private villas with views of rolling farmland overlooking the dramatic escarpment at Kangaroo Valley or be surrounded by native bushland (a short walk from the beach) in Jervis Bay.

    Speaking of beachside escapes, Headlands Hotel Austinmer Beach delivers unrivalled access to Wollongong’s beaches. These serviced apartments enjoy coastal views from spacious balconies.

    For something completely different again, check in at Cicada Luxury Camping . Stay in safari-style or large bell tents, each with a private fire pit and top-notch kitchen facilities. Outside, enjoy spectacular countryside views.

    Cicada Luxury Camping
    Unwind at Cicada Luxury Camping. (Image: DNSW)

    Discover more and plan your ultimate road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive and beyond at grandpacificdrive.com.au/grand.