Blue Mountains Accommodation: 14 Glorious Stays To Try Now

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

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.

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

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.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

Blue Mountains accommodation: 14 stunning places to book now