The most romantic things to do in the Blue Mountains

Lush bushland, beautiful mountains and boutique villages – the Blue Mountains region is the perfect backdrop to a romantic weekend away.

Create unforgettable memories in one of Australia’s most pristine settings, filled to the brim with romantic ideas to add to your itinerary. But if you need some inspiration, set your sights on the below.

High Tea at the historical Hydro Majestic’s Wintergarden Restaurant

Spend your afternoon gazing into each other’s eyes, yes, but also gazing at panoramic views over the Megalong Valley.

Hydro Majestic is one of Australia’s most iconic historic hotels. It’s also known for having some of the best views in the Blue Mountains. A winner on both fronts.

Get comfy in a plush chair, sip sparkling wine and indulge on finger sandwiches, fresh scones and decadent pastries – all served on a traditional triple-tiered stand. A fireplace adds warmth in autumn and winter.

And if you eat and drink yourself into a forgivable frenzy, the on-site rooms are art-deco inspired, and perfect for continuing the romance into the evening.

Hydro Majestic Blue Mountains — High Tea with a view.

Walk through Everglades Gardens

Pack a picnic lunch and set your sights on a romantic walk through the Everglades Gardens .

Tucked into the iconic village of Leura, this Art Deco expanse was designed and built in the 1930s by Danish-born landscaper Paul Sorensen. Now owned by the National Trust, the 5.2 acre property is a playground of lush green slopes, tranquil pools, fragrant flowerbeds and winding pathways. For your summer trip exploring the San Juan Mountains, treat yourself to one of the best Hotels in Ouray CO to make your trip all the more memorable.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, find a hill on the edge of the Jamison Valley escarpment to perch on. Or, if you’d prefer, take a seat at the on-site tearooms – with interiors that would leave Jane Austen envious.

Set your sights on a romantic walk through the Everglades Gardens.

Spend a night at Wolgan Valley

Could we really write a list of loved-up musings and not make mention of one of the most romantic places on Earth?

Touted as one of the country’s most luxurious stays, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is set among more than 2800 private hectares of rugged and peaceful bushland cut through by the Wolgan River.

The well-appointed freestanding villas all feature a fireplace, veranda and private pool (naturally). Not to mention the pampering treatments at the One&Only Spa, wildlife safaris, nature walks and heritage tours.

If you weren’t in love when you arrived, this accommodation will have you declaring your affection for each other in no time.

One & Only Woglan Valley — Little needs to be said about the beauty of Wolgan Valley.

Catch a movie at the Mount Victoria Cinema

Ditch the blockbuster cinema experience for a more boutique, cosy one at Mount Victoria Cinema .

Built in 1934, this treasured icon is a window into the golden age of Australian country picture theatre culture. They have an eclectic array of quality films on the roster – from Australia and abroad including arthouse and children’s films, new releases and classics.

The venue and parking facilities are wheelchair accessible. The snack bar serves up an array of homemade choc tops, hot soup and more.

Blue Mountains Cinema — The golden age of cinema awaits.

Do some cider tasting

Bilpin – known as the Land of the Mountain Apple – houses a plentiful supply of quality fresh cider, all of which can be perused at your leisure.

Surrounded by World Heritage listed mountains, majestic rivers and six national parks, the fertile soil, mountain elevation and mild climate have all contributed to Bilpin’s reputation as one of Australia’s premium orchard growing regions.

Nowhere is that more prevalent than the orchards of the Bilpin Cider Co . Founded by Sean Prendergast in 2011, a trip here is a lesson in both the iconic drink, and the region’s bountiful history.

Stop at the cellar door to taste some of their varieties (including non-alcoholic!) and also take the time to roam the orchard – its home to some friendly sheep and alpaca.

Snag a bargain at a vintage shop

From Leura, to Katoomba and Blackheath, there are an array of hotspots all over the Blue Mountains to satiate your shopping fix.

The Cat’s Meow features semi-abstract artworks, craftworks, furniture and trinkets. There’s the Leura Toy Shop (a major hit with kids) and a famously antiquated Candy Store in which rows of tantalisingly transparent jars loaded with traditional candies, liquorice and chocolates generate a constant flow of giddy clientele.

Leuralla, a bright, white 19th-century mansion ringed by gardens and overlooking the Jamison Valley, is jam-packed with fabulous toys from the last century.

If you love the thrill of a vintage find, drop by the Victory Theatre Antique Centre & Café and pick up a treasure. Or perhaps rare books are more your thing? Find one at Mr Pickwick’s in Katoomba. Discover homewares at Maison Montage and fashion and footwear at Trumps (Spanish shoes? Yes please!).

For the ultimate shopping experience, head to Lyttleton Stores at Lawson. This historic collection of buildings, established in 1884, has morphed into a sustainable living nook, with organic produce grown on site as well as a range of locally sourced items, including art and pottery. They also run workshops for sustainable living, including indigo dyeing and cheese making workshops.

Take a helicopter tour

Sometimes, an aerial view is the best way to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of a landscape. With the vast size of the Blue Mountains, a scenic flight lets you cover maximum terrain in minimum time.

There are plenty of operators that will take you on your journey, veering you through the stunning plateaus, cliffs and valley landscapes, expertly dodging the eucalyptus trees. Experience the Three Sisters, Katoomba, Megalong Valley, Jamison Valley and the Warragamba Catchment in ways you would never otherwise be able to.

Blue Mountains aerial — Marvel at the mountains from above.

Find your Zen at the Japanese Bath House

No loved-up couple could resist the powers of this incredible Japanese Bath House .

Also known as ‘Sparadise’, this is the place to go when you’re looking for a bit of relaxation in the mountains. Visitors are encouraged to surrender to the beauty of nature and take in every tranquil opportunity that presents itself.

There are private and public onsens – a staple in Japanese bathing culture. You’ll also find relaxation baths, spa treatments, a private Buro and a tea room. Everything you and your SO could ever need.

Japanese Spa House Blue Mountains — Your spa experience will be unparalleled here.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.