Perched high in the heart of the Blue Mountains, Katoomba is the region’s most famous gateway town, blending natural grandeur with an old-world charm that feels like stepping into a living postcard. Its name comes from an Aboriginal word meaning “shiny, tumbling waters,” a nod to the waterfalls that cascade through the surrounding valleys. At its edge lies the breathtaking Echo Point lookout, where the iconic Three Sisters rock formation stands tall, shrouded in legends of the Gundungurra and Darug peoples. On misty mornings, the Jamison Valley below looks like a rolling ocean of clouds, giving way to endless eucalyptus forests whose oils create the region’s trademark blue haze. Katoomba’s streets are lined with art deco architecture, quirky cafés, antique shops, and galleries, reflecting its history as a fashionable mountain retreat in the early 20th century. It’s a place where towering cliffs, Indigenous heritage, and small-town warmth meet.

The Three Sisters is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Blue Mountains, a dramatic trio of sandstone rock formations that rise proudly above the Jamison Valley. According to Aboriginal legend of the Gundungurra people, the towering spires represent three sisters who were turned to stone by a tribal elder to protect them from danger, but who could not be returned to human form. The formations were formed over millions of years through erosion, as wind, rain, and rivers gradually carved the soft sandstone cliffs into the spectacular shapes we see today. The site is not only a geological wonder but also a cultural treasure, offering breathtaking views from Echo Point Lookout. On misty days, the Three Sisters appear to float above a sea of clouds, adding to the sense of mystery that has surrounded them for thousands of years.

Leura, often described as the “jewel” of the Blue Mountains, is a charming garden village just a few minutes from Katoomba, where heritage streetscapes meet boutique shopping and natural beauty. Its tree-lined main street is brimming with elegant cafés, art galleries, and specialty stores selling everything from antiques to handmade chocolates. The town’s history is rooted in the late 19th century, when it became a popular retreat for wealthy Sydneysiders seeking the crisp mountain air, and many of its original Federation-era homes still stand as reminders of that golden age. With its blend of nature, heritage, and a hint of European charm, Leura is a place where you can enjoy a slow-paced stroll one moment and be surrounded by dramatic escarpments the next.

Wentworth Falls is one of the Blue Mountains’ most spectacular natural wonders, combining breathtaking scenery, cascading waterfalls, and rich history. The star attraction is the majestic three-tiered waterfall that plunges a total of 187 metres into the lush Jamison Valley, sending mist into the air and creating rainbows on sunny days. The falls are named after William Charles Wentworth, one of the explorers credited with crossing the Blue Mountains in 1813, opening the way for European settlement west of Sydney. Visitors can admire the falls from Wentworth Falls Lookout, which offers sweeping views over the valley and the rugged sandstone cliffs. Standing at the top of the falls listening to the thunder of water, you will be soaking in the endless expanse of the Jamison Valley. Wentworth Falls offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and adventurous spirit that perfectly captures the magic of the Blue Mountains.

Lawson, a charming village in the heart of the Blue Mountains, offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and small-town warmth that makes it a delightful stop for travellers. Once known as “24 Mile Hollow” and later “Blue Mountain,” the town was renamed in 1879 after William Lawson, one of the explorers who, along with Blaxland and Wentworth, famously crossed the Blue Mountains in 1813. Lawson’s heritage is still visible in its historic buildings, including the old Mechanics Institute Hall and quaint weatherboard cottages that hint at its colonial past. The area’s cool climate gardens bloom vividly in spring, and the surrounding bushland is home to colourful birdlife and fragrant eucalypts that perfume the air. Lawson is also known for its community spirit, hosting lively local markets and events where visitors can browse handmade crafts and enjoy fresh regional produce.

Woodford is a peaceful mountain village in the Blue Mountains of Sydney, known for its fresh mountain air, historic charm, and abundance of cycling trails. One of its most famous landmarks is Woodford Academy, the oldest surviving complex of colonial buildings in the Blue Mountains, now run by the National Trust and often said to be one of the most haunted sites in New South Wales. Nature lovers are drawn to Woodford for its direct access to the Oaks Fire Trail, a much-loved mountain biking route that stretches all the way to Glenbrook through native forests alive with birdsong and wildflowers. Woodford offers a quieter, more relaxed experience compared to the busier tourist hubs further up the mountains, making it a perfect stop for travellers seeking a taste of Blue Mountains history alongside pristine natural beauty.

Nestled in the charming village of Woodford—once known in colonial times as “Twenty Mile Hollow”—20 Mile Hollow Café & Local Produce is a hidden gem in the Blue Mountains. Stepping inside, you’ll immediately sense the co-zy, rustic charm that defines the place—warm décor, a sunny verandah overlooking bushland vistas, and a relaxed atmosphere. We stop for a quick snack before starting stage two of our tour on the Oaks Firetrail. Participants purchase their own snacks and drinks.

We start our offroad mountain biking journey at around 600m above sea level. From here, we climb aboard the famous Woodford–Oaks Fire Trail, a 27 km point-to-point route that predominantly drops you down to Glenbrook, around 160 m elevation—making for an exhilarating descent that you'll remember long after the ride ends. The trail begins with a gentle downhill and some rolling undulations. The first stretch tests your rhythm, offering some short climbs—easy with our ebikes—leading up to a helipad where the views open up and you can pause to catch your breath amid the crisp mountain air. On a clear day, you might even glimpse the glint of Sydney’s CBD skyline far below, As we near the bottom, the fire trail transitions into about 5km of smooth, flowing single-track packed with berms, jumps, and skillful curves—considered among the best in Sydney for its playful design and punchy rhythm. For beginner riders we can stay on the main firetrail.

The Jellybean Pool offers visitors a refreshing escape into nature’s serene beauty. This charming natural swimming hole, is famous for its crystal-clear waters that invite swimmers to cool off on warm days. The pool is fed by a gentle creek cascading over smooth rocks, creating a tranquil oasis surrounded by towering eucalyptus trees and lush native bushland. You might catch glimpses of native wildlife like lyrebirds and kangaroos. Its name comes from the colorful, smooth pebbles found at its bottom—reminiscent of jellybeans—adding a playful touch to the experience. We make a short side trip for a dip in the warmer months if time permits.

Glenbrooks leafy streets are lined with cosy cafés, heritage buildings, and boutique shops. Glenbrook’s history stretches back to the early days of European settlement, with the original Lapstone Zig Zag railway line and old sandstone railway station hinting at its role as a vital transport hub in the late 19th century. The group will stop for food and drinks while your guide trains it back to Katoomba to pickup the minivan. Enjoy your well earnt dinner!