When we asked friends who had lived in Australia where to visit our first time in the Sydney area, they immediately said Blue Mountains 💙 and Manly Beach (shoutout and thanks to Standy)! We directly took their advice and enjoyed 5 days in the Blue Mountains in the town of Katoomba when traveling through Australia to get from Indonesia to Hawaii for our cruise back to Sydney (and our stay at Manly Beach).

Katoomba is an easy train ride about two hours from Sydney and sits on a high plateau. We spent our days walking, hiking, and exploring while staying at the lovely Metropole Guest House. We enjoyed the town and particularly liked the breakfast at the Little Paris Café. We first explored the trails and overlooks near town including Three Sisters, Prince Henry Cliff Walk, and Katoomba Falls. One afternoon, we decided on a proper hike and headed down (and back up) to Ruined Castle. It was a great hike! We rewarded ourselves with a local beer at Mountain Culture Brewery.

Nature in the Blue Mountains is amazing and so unique! Interestingly, most of the trees in the Blue Mountains are eucalyptus which smell amazing and are the reason for the name Blue Mountains as the oil results in a blue haze. Also, in Katoomba, we first experienced the birds of Australia. They are big and loud and beautiful! We particularly enjoyed the Sulphur-crested Cockatoos which are “famously cheeky.” It was a delightful introduction to Australia and we enjoyed the food, beverages, and nature very much!