The Greatest Blue Mountains Pub Crawl

This may not be your usual Blue Mountains trail, but it should definitely be on your bucket list.

The Blue Mountains in NSW is the gift that just keeps on giving, with a range of trails on offer for a variety of different interests. Whether you’re keen to increase your heart rate on one of the region’s epic hikes or read your way through the Blue Mountains Bookshop Trail, there’s something for everyone.

But if neither of those is particularly up your alley, fear not – there’s another self-guided path that may just pique your interest. It may not officially be a recognised trail, but a Blue Mountains pub crawl is worthy of a weekend away in this picturesque slice of paradise.

1. Brew Mountains Brewery, Valley Heights

You’ll have to head a little ways up the mountain to start, but you’ll begin with a bang at Brew Mountains Brewery in Valley Heights. It may be nestled in an unassuming industrial area off the main road, but this microbrewery is not one to miss.

Lovers of craft beer will be spoilt for choice, with a rotating roster of unorthodox brews packed with flavour on tap. There’s your classic pale ale, but also more experimental brews like the grapefruit IPA. If you’re not a fan of beer, don’t fear. Brew Mountains makes its own cider, hard lemonade and ginger beer. Local wines are also available.

If you opt to sit inside, try to nab the comfy armchairs in the corner. Otherwise, the milk crates outside are perfect for a makeshift roundtable of mates. You can fuel up for your crawl up the mountain at the food truck; there’s one parked up outside on weekends.

Brew Mountains Brewery in Valley Height, Blue Mountains — The ever-rotating taps at Brew Mountains pour delicious ales. (Image: Time Out)

2. The Oriental Hotel, Springwood

A five-minute drive up the road and you’ll be at The Oriental Hotel . Known among locals as ‘The Ori’, this classic pub is a favourite among residents and visitors of Springwood alike.

Established in 1878, the pub has lived through multiple acquisitions, even serving as a government shelter for orphans during World War II. Embracing its historic charm, many of its Victorian details remain, from the hipped-slated roof and rendered chimneys to its pressed metal ceiling and ornate balconies.

Despite its age, The Ori serves up contemporary pub vibes and is the perfect spot for a beverage. There are 16 ever-changing beers on tap, plus a range of wines, ciders, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks on offer.

3. The Henry Hotel, Lawson

Your next stop is in the sweet town of Lawson at The Henry Hotel , another historic Blue Mountains pub. Just looking at the place will take you back in time; even more so when you walk through its doors.

The pub was originally built in 1845 and situated on 100 acres of land. These days, its perimeter is much smaller, but The Henry still maintains its traditions. Think good company, delicious food, friendly staff and cold beer.

If you’re making a weekend out of it, The Henry is also a top spot to crash. Upstairs, well-appointed rooms combine classic hotel charm with a refurbished freshness. Come for a couple of cold ones, stay for the cosy accommodation.

4. Grand View Hotel, Wentworth Falls

Next up, head into Wentworth Falls to check out the Grand View Hotel . It may not necessarily live up to its name, but it’s still a great pit stop on your Blue Mountains pub crawl.

The hotel is home to a great beer garden dotted with shrubbery, large umbrellas and ample seating options. If it’s a little too dreary outside, the restored interior exudes historic charm and is the perfect setting for a pub lunch by the fireplace.

The Grand View Hotel is located along the Great Western Highway, the main thoroughfare through the Blue Mountains. Pull in for a pint before you continue up the hill to your next stop.

5. The Bunker, Leura

Only a five-minute drive up the road (sans traffic) and you’ll be in one of the cutest towns in the Blue Mountains. Of course, we’re talking about Leura. With its boutique shops, great lookouts and cosy accommodation options, you may want to linger a little longer.

The Bunker in Leura, Blue Mountains — Settle in at The Bunker for a tipple or two. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Bunker is on your right as you enter Leura, just before the main street begins. Hidden among a cluster of tall pines and a sprawling garden, it’s easy to lose track of time here. Enjoy a tipple or two with views across town and undulating mountains in the distance.

Known among locals as one of the cosiest cafes in town, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re keen for a bite to eat. And if you’re after an unforgettable experience, book the Dining Dome, a private bubble-like structure with 360-degree views.

6. Polar Bear of Leura

You’ll find the Polar Bear of Leura in Leura Mall on the main road in town. Nestled inside an unassuming brick building, this speakeasy-style bar is like stepping into another dimension.

Its rustic chic interior exudes charm, emitting local New York bar vibes with a cocktail list to match. Sip on a fruity and sweet Tony’s Strawberry Rose or try its namesake The Polar Bear for an explosion of flavours. Trust us, the list goes on…

There’s also an extensive list of Australian wines and craft beers to suit all tastebuds. Fancy a snack? The Mediterranean-inspired menu features everything from kavurma starters to lamb shish plates.

Polar Bear of Leura, Blue Mountains — The interior of the cosy bar is artfully designed.

7. Mountain Culture Beer Co., Katoomba

Considered the jewel of the Blue Mountains, Katoomba is rife with bars and pubs perfect for a pub crawl. Yet only one brewery has staked its claim in town, and it’s become a stalwart both locally and nationally.

Mountain Culture Beer Co in Katoomba, Blue Mountains — The brewery is popular among locals and tourists alike. (Image: Destination NSW)

Since opening its doors in late 2019, Mountain Culture Beer Co. has steadily risen in popularity. These days, the craft brewery is packed out most weekends. Don’t let this deter you though; you’re sure to find a seat outside, on the main floor or up on the mezzanine.

With a fervent rotation of delicious craft beers, hopheads will have a heyday here. Sample oat cream IPAs, Aussie lagers or the Status Quo NEPA, voted Australia’s #1 beer in GABS Hottest 100 two years in a row. Hot tip: the fried pickles are a must.

8. Station Bar, Katoomba

Walk a couple minutes down the road and you’ll stumble into Station Bar . This kooky, cool bar is a great spot to hang, with road signs, band posters and spirit bottles lining the walls.

The place is always pumping, especially on weekends. Get amongst it with plenty of craft beers on tap, as well as extensive cocktail and wine lists. There’s also local live music on Saturday nights.

Come for the cocktails, stay for the woodfired pizza. It’s known across town as some of the best slices in the mountains, all named after local towns. The Glenbrook and Lawson are crowd pleasers.

Station Bar in Katoomba, Blue Mountains, NSW — Station Bar is known for its great drinks menu and delicious wood-fired pizza.

9. The Bootlegger Bar, Katoomba

Living up to its motto – low and slow – The Bootlegger is just across the road from Station Bar. Although, it offers up quite a different vibe. The old-fashioned interior conjures up feelings of nostalgia, warmth and relaxation.

Bootlegger Bar in Katoomba, Blue Mountains — You’ll feel warmly welcomed as soon as you enter Bootlegger.

Divvied up between two cosy floors, the smokehouse-cross-bar takes inspiration from Southern barbecue and Cajan cuisines. This results in a mouth-watering menu that should be savoured over a few hours.

The drinks menu is also worthy of your time, with premium wines, an abundance of spirits, vibrant cocktails and a variety of local and classic tap beers. Don’t be surprised if you lose track of time at Bootlegger, it’s just the way here.

10. Champagne Charlie’s, Katoomba

Situated in the heart of Katoomba, old-world glamour seemingly seeps from the walls at The Carrington, home to Champagne Charlie’s . Known as the oldest cocktail bar in town, it’s named after Lord Carrington, a notorious ‘Champagne Charlie’ (a man noted for living a life of luxury and excess).

Settle into a grand armchair near the fireplace and choose wisely from the drinks menu. Although it’s subject to seasonal changes, guests can always expect well-crafted cocktails, local craft beer and an extensive range of wines.

The elegant hotel dates back to 1883 and still maintains its historic allure to this day. If you’re looking for somewhere to rest your head, it’s also one of the best places to stay in Katoomba.

The Carrington in Katoomba, Blue Mountains — The Carrington exudes old-world charm from the outside in. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Dryridge Estate, Megalong Valley

Oenophiles, this one’s for you. Although the Blue Mountains is home to many amazing pubs and bars, dip down into the Megalong Valley and you’ll find Dryridge Estate . It is the perfect place to see the Blue Mountains from a different perspective.

Dryridge Estate in Megalong Valley, NSW — The views from Dryridge are unmatched.

Veer off the Great Western Highway onto Megalong Road and you’ll eventually arrive at the winery, sitting pretty among rolling vineyards and green hills. Sit outside and you’ll be rewarded with views of sandstone escarpments that turn golden in the sunlight.

The wines produced at Dryridge Estate are especially unique thanks to the pink granite soil of the region. The best way to go about things here is the wine-tasting experience, just $15 per person for seven wine samples. Trust us, add the cheeseboard too.

12. Hydro Majestic, Medlow Bath

Back up on the mountain ridge, your next stop is the stunning Hydro Majestic in Medlow Bath. Home to three restaurants/bars, you could hop around this stunning hotel all day long. Plus, it offers some of the best views the Blue Mountains has to offer.

Hydro Majestic in Medlow Bath, Blue Mountains — You’ll be swept away by the views from the Hydro. (Image: Destination NSW)

Make your choice depending on the vibe you’re after. The Wintergarden is known for its high tea and gourmet dinner menu. The Boiler House is a separate space, offering a more laidback experience. Then there’s Salon du Thé, with its oriental design and chic furnishings.

Whether you want to check out all three or simply settle in to one, how you spend your time here is completely up to you. Either way, you’re guaranteed a good drink and a great view.

The Boiler House at Hydro Majestic in Medlow Bath, Blue Mountains — The Boiler House is great for a casual meal. (Image: Destination NSW)

13. Side B Vinyl Bar, Blackheath

Nestled by Blackheath’s more traditional Gardner’s Inn, you’ll find the cool and calm Side B Vinyl Bar . And although they’re right next door to each other, the two drinking dens are worlds apart.

Side B Vinyl Bar in Blackheath, Blue Mountains — The cocktails at Side B Vinyl Bar go down a treat.

Record store by day, cocktail bar by night, Side B is truly the place to be in Blackheath. With its dim lighting, wooden accents and plush red lounges, you’ll enter a whole new world just by walking through the front door.

Spend the afternoon browsing through vinyl then settle in for a cocktail, beer or wine come evening. You’ll be whisked away by the bar’s warm buzz, which mixes perfectly with indistinct chatter and local live music.

14. Frankie & Mo’s, Blackheath

Unfortunately, you’ve reached your final stop on this epic Blue Mountains pub crawl. But, lucky for you, it’s ending with an absolute bang. Just off the main road and nestled into a row of residential homes, you’ll find Frankie and Mo’s .

Frankie & Mo's in Blackheath, Blue Mountains — Choose from a well-curated range of delicious local wine.

The triple threat – combining a restaurant, natural wine bar and bottle shop into one – is sure to delight. The cosy drinking den is warm and welcoming, specialising in organic, ethically farmed natural wine. The best part? If you find a bottle you love, you can take it home with you.

Time your trip to align with Frankie & Mo’s opening hours so you don’t miss out. The cellar door is open on weekends; the kitchen and bottle shop Thursday through Sunday, with hours varying. Want to extend your trip? Book into one of Blackheath’s stunning retreats to really get the lay of the land.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

The greatest Blue Mountains pub crawl