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.

Whales breaching, fires crackling and slow-cooked feasts that make the cold so cosy, one might wish it lasted longer. Winter is no time to stay at home in NSW.

When the mercury drops, winter in NSW comes into its own. Beaches are quieter, the air is crisper and hearty food tastes even better when there’s ice on the windows.

Winter here isn’t for hiding away. It’s for long walks, deep baths, deeper reds and the kind of fireside lounging that feels simultaneously indulgent and entirely deserved after a day of exploring. From whale-watching up north to moodily lit bushwalks and pastry pilgrimages, we’ve mapped out your new favourite season.

a beach winter in nsw — From coastal walks to tasty delights, winter in NSW is a time to get out and about.

The Tweed

In winter, the NSW north coast has a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest migrations. From May to November, humpbacks cruise past the Tweed coast between Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef. Spot them from the Cabarita Beach headland or get up closer with a boat cruise.

Inland, find the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre , which is home to a rotating cast of big-name exhibitions (including Monet).

Later, grab a table at Bistro Livi , where the modern Spanish menu features whipped salt cod on toast and spanner crab with curry butter and spelt flatbread. Stick around to poke through the artist studios and indie boutiques of M|Arts Precinct .

visitors at Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre — Browse the art. (Image: Destination NSW)

The next day, jump aboard the Indigenous Lunch Cruise with Tweed Escapes. You’ll cruise upriver listening to yarns from local Indigenous guides, stop at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Museum and tuck into lemon myrtle-crusted snapper.

Next, drive out to Farm & Co to pull apart some juicy smoked lamb shoulder with green olive tapenade while gazing out over the macadamia fields and avocado groves of this working farm.

End the day at Mantra on Salt Beach where you’ll enjoy beach access, a heated rock spa and a lagoon pool.

dining room at Bistro Livi — Taste modern Spanish at Bistro Livi.

Blue Mountains

The cold season is hands down the best time to visit the Blue Mountains. Temperatures are perfect – sunny enough for hikes, and crisp enough at night for snuggling up.

For a trip that equally soothes and stirs, start with a meditative meander through the national park’s eucalypts and Australian wildflowers. Brave the steepest passenger railway in the world, Scenic Railway , then hop the Skyway aerial cable car for unrivalled Three Sisters views.

Thaw out at the Japanese Bath House in South Bowenfels. Soak in steamy outdoor onsens filled with natural mineral water and mountain views, wander the rose and zen gardens, or sip hot drinks in the tea house.

group leader at Blue Mountains Stargazing — Rug up for Blue Mountains Stargazing. (Image: Destination NSW)

Afterwards, head to Ates in Blackheath, where everything revolves around a 150-year-old ironbark-fuelled oven – like the wood-roasted duck with nectarines and Szechuan spice. Or visit Tempus Katoomba , which leans experimental and sustainable, serving up dishes like braised fennel with cumin, spiced yogurt and Aleppo pepper.

Rug up and head into the night with Blue Mountains Stargazing . Sessions are guided by astrophysicists, helping you understand what you’re looking at as you look into deep space.

Wrap it all up at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains – MGallery Collection . There’s a whiskey bar in the basement (and crackling fires that make a dram taste even better), indoor and outdoor pools and a day spa. Kids will love the mirror maze and ice rink, too.

dishes laid out on table at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains — End the day with delicious meals at Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains. (Image: Destination NSW)

Southern Highlands

Good food and wine by the fire, experienced between sifting through second-hand treasures, is a winter vibe in Bowral.

Start with a lap around Dirty Janes , an antique and vintage market. Recover from your shopping frenzy at Bendooley Book Barn , where floor-to-ceiling shelves and a roaring fire set the tone for an afternoon of red wine or hot coffee.

When it’s time to eat, head to Hickory’s Restaurant & Bar , Peppers Craigieburn Bowral’s onsite restaurant. Try the crispy pork belly with Granny Smith crisps and apple gel, or ocean trout with wakame, lemon gel and pickled radish.

couple looking through Dirty Janes in bowral — Wander the antiques at Dirty Janes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Another option, Onesta Cucina , does Italian with flair. For something more casual (with cocktails), Flour Bar swings between brunch and dinner, with an onsite bakery, over 400 wines and a hidden deli in the old bank vault.

Later, clamber Mt Gibraltar , where trails wind through eucalypt forest to views over Bowral and Mittagong.

Stay at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral , a century-old estate with open fires, elegant lounges and a nine-hole golf course.

woman and her dog winter in nsw at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral — Stay cosy at Peppers Craigieburn Bowral.

Penrith

Shake off winter inertia with an adrenaline boost out in Penrith. Kick things off with a kayak paddle on the Nepean River with Horizon Line, or head to Cables Wake Park , where cold-weather wetsuits take the edge off a wipeout.

For something a bit more cruisy, opt for the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler for slow-floating views and a hot cuppa.

kayakers on the nepean river in penrith — Head out on the Nepean River. (Image: Destination NSW)

Refuel at Marcel Bar & Bistro , where reimagined European comfort food – like seafood risotto in bisque with little neck clams and Moreton Bay bugs – is king. Then check in at the Pullman Sydney Penrith , the area’s first international five-star hotel, to enjoy your well-earned rest.

Start planning your NSW winter getaway at all.com.

Blue Mountains accommodation: 14 stunning places to book now