Your Guide To The Blue Mountains Bookshop Trail

You won’t need your hiking boots for this Blue Mountains trail.

You’ve heard of the countless incredible nature walks in the Blue Mountains. But what about those of us who prefer to stay inside and exercise our minds rather than our bodies?

There’s a different kind of trail enticing travellers to the region, replacing water bottles with cups of coffee and hiking boots with books. Stopping at 11 bookshops along the way, the Blue Mountains Bookshop Trail is perfect for everyone who loves a good read, from the well-read bibliophile to bookish beginners.

1. Blue Dragon Books, Glenbrook

The trail begins at the foot of the Blue Mountains in Glenbrook, known for its hip cafes and friendly community. Located in an unassuming arcade, Blue Dragon Books is stacked with second-hand tomes. With over 18,000 books lining the walls (and sometimes the floor!), it’s truly a book lover’s paradise.

New stock is added almost every day from donations, which the staff may exchange for store credit if you bring something they’re looking for. Buy as many books as your hands can hold, everything is priced affordably. And before you leave, peruse the handmade bookmarks and trinkets at the front desk.

Blue Dragon Books in Glenbrook, NSW — Blue Dragon Books is brimming with second-hand reads.

2. The Turning Page Bookshop, Springwood

Your next stop is Springwood, home to The Turning Page Bookshop and the recently closed Springwood Book Lounge, which whittled the list down from 12 to 11. Located on the main drag, The Turning Page is bright and homely, with soft music guiding you through the rows of books.

A shelf full of staff favourites and recs greet visitors upon entry, adding to the air of friendliness and familiarity. Many happily fall into the trap at the door; a collection of bookish paraphernalia including bookmarks, pencil cases, tote bags, socks, stationary, cards and notebooks. They make for the perfect addition to a book-filled purchase.

3. Chapters and Leaves, Faulconbridge

Two of a bookworm’s favourite things combine at Chapters and Leaves in Faulconbridge: tea and books! The teahouse has over 150 delicious teas on offer, which you can sip in-store as you read or purchase to take home.

The locally owned space is all about community. Chapters and Leaves sells a range of ‘Mountains made’ gifts and hosts regular book clubs, craft groups and charity events. Whether you opt to sit outside with your favourite brew and a plate of homemade scones or browse the shelves for a good book inside, Chapters and Leaves is sure to delight.

4. RoseyRavelston Books, Lawson

Stepping into RoseyRavelston Books in Lawson is like visiting your favourite grandma. From the classical carpets to mismatched photo frames and a big leather armchair in the corner, it’s comfort at its finest. With an extensive collection of fiction, non-fiction and rare books, it’s a shop any book lover could spend hours in.

It can even be hired out for private groups, meaning you and your friends can have the whole place to yourself for up to two hours. RoseyRavelston isn’t just any old bookstore either, it’s making a difference, one book at a time. As a strong advocate for refugees, 50 per cent of profits made at the shop go to local refugee charities.

RoseyRavelston Books in Lawson, NSW — RoseyRavelston in Lawson is the epitome of cosy.

5. Good Earth Bookshop, Wentworth Falls

Next on your bookish adventure is Good Earth Bookshop , where the idea for the Blue Mountains Book Trail originated. Good Earth is all about making the world a better place with books. The cosy store is brimming with preloved books, with a small selection of new editions as well.

You can also join one of the many groups hosted here, from a variety of book clubs to zine-making sessions and crafty collabs with a side of tea. Make sure to add a few vintage collectables, games or toys to your cart on the way to the register, too. Located within Renae’s Arcade, this is one you don’t want to miss.

Good Earth Bookshop in Wentworth Falls, NSW — Snuggle up with a good read at Good Earth Bookshop.

6. Wyrd Books, Wentworth Falls

Just down the road, you’ll stumble into Wyrd Books . With a specific focus on fantasy, sci-fi and horror, this bookshop may not have something for everyone, but it’s still worth a visit. And for those who love these three genres, it may just become your new favourite.

The shop also prioritises first-edition hardcovers, meaning your collection just got a whole lot cooler. If you can’t make it to the store, fear not. The prized collection at Wyrd is completely catalogued on their website and available for purchase. Book blurbs online also come with reviews and recommendations!

7. Megalong Books, Leura

Megalong Books is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s the quintessential bookstore; soft music, packed wooden shelves and that bookish smell that every reader loves.

Megalong houses almost every genre you can think of. From gardening to cooking, history to politics, poetry to classics and everything in between, all bookworms are catered for here. And if all this book shopping is making you hungry, you’re in luck. There are plenty of cosy cafes in Leura to dine at before you hit the trail again.

Megalong Books in Leura, NSW — Megalong Books is a reader’s paradise. (Image: Taylah Darnell)

8. Mr Pickwick’s Fine Old Books, Katoomba

After fuelling up in Leura, make tracks for Mr Pickwick’s Fine Old Books , just a page-turn away in Katoomba. As the name suggests, this store is a haven for old and rare books. Those visiting the area may be thrown off when they enter the store, as the ground level is adorned with everything vintage. Think clothes, homewares, toys, jewellery, furniture and art.

But downstairs is where the real magic happens: the bookstore. There are plenty of modern novels, but just like upstairs, there’s a whole lot of vintage, too. Collectors will have a field day here, with books dating back to the early 1800s.

Mr Pickwick's Old Fine Books in Katoomba, NSW — Head downstairs to check out the bookshop at Mr Pickwick’s.

9. The Little Lost Bookshop, Katoomba

Hidden down Hapenny Lane among a selection of small stores perfect for wandering through is The Little Lost Bookshop . The two-story reader’s haven is a peaceful place promising plenty of books. On the first floor, visitors will find a range of fiction and non-fiction reads, as well as a good selection of Blue Mountains-based books.

Upstairs, second-hand books await their new home. You can pick up board games, cards, bookmarks and unique gifts, too. Fitting 12 bookshops into one day may be a challenge for some. With so many great places to stay in Katoomba, spend the night to wake up refreshed and ready to round out the trail the next day.

The Little Lost Bookshop in Katoomba, NSW — The Little Lost Bookshop sits on Hapenny Lane. (Image: Taylah Darnell)

10. Gleebooks, Blackheath

Popular Sydney bookstore Gleebooks has set up shop in Blackheath. Fans of the Dulwich Hill and Glebe locations will know this one is a must. Sitting between an art gallery and an antique store on the main drag, Gleebooks is another one of those bookshops that readers could while the day away in.

Shelves upon shelves of books entice many “just one more" comments from browsing bookworms. Gleebooks Blackheath also hosts community events throughout the year, including author talks, live readings and book launches. All are welcome!

Gleebooks Blackheath in NSW — Gllebooks Blackheath is the 11th stop on the trail. (Image: Seamus Reece)

11. A Reader’s Heaven, Lithgow

If the name doesn’t convince you, I don’t know what will. Follow the Great Western Highway down the Mt Victoria side of the mountains and you’ll find the cosy town of Lithgow, home to A Reader’s Heaven . This bookshop may be the last on the Blue Mountains Book Trail, but it’s worth the extra bit of travel time.

Home to a vast collection of both new and preloved books, visitors here are sure to get lost among the shelves. The couple who own and run A Reader’s Heaven, Paul and Jo, are very friendly, always offering fantastic book recommendations, and they love their bookstore so much, that they even got married there.

A Reader's Heaven Bookshop in Lithgow, NSW — Get lost among the maze of books at A Reader’s Heaven.

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.

This Blue Mountains Bookshop Trail is a bibliophile’s dream come true