The Blue Mountains are one of the most popular places to visit in New South Wales, and it is easy to see why. Located about two hours west of Sydney, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed area is known for its tall cliffs, green valleys, rainforests and beautiful views. Most visitors know the Three Sisters, Echo Point and Scenic World.
But there is another side to the Blue Mountains that is easy to miss. Our team believes these lesser-known places are worth a visit. This blog covers some of the best places to visit in the Blue Mountains beyond the famous attractions.
Great Places to Add to Your Blue Mountains Itinerary
1. Dolly’s Doughnuts, Glenbrook
If you have a sweet tooth, Dolly’s Doughnuts in Glenbrook is a must-visit. This is not a standard bakery. The menu changes regularly, with fun doughnut flavours and gelato, so each visit can be a little different. The shop has a charming feel, and it is a fun place to spend time in.
2. High Tea at the Hydro Majestic, Medlow Bath
For something more special, high tea at the Hydro Majestic is one of those Blue Mountains experiences that lives up to its reputation. The heritage hotel sits on the edge of the escarpment above the Megalong Valley, with amazing views from the dining room. The food is elegant, the wine list is good, and the setting makes the experience. It is the kind of afternoon you will remember. You need to book ahead, especially on weekends.
3. The New Ivanhoe Hotel, Blackheath
If you want a proper pub meal, the New Ivanhoe Hotel in Blackheath is worth a visit. It is a beautiful art deco pub with an enclosed sunroom that gets lovely afternoon light. In winter, the fireplaces make the pub warm and cosy. In summer, the lawn is a good place to sit with a cold drink after a day of walking. The food is simple, and the atmosphere is relaxed. It is what you would expect from a good regional pub.
4. Side B Vinyl Bar, Blackheath
Side B Vinyl Bar in Blackheath is one of those places you walk past and want to check out right away. This place is a vinyl bar where you can browse a large record collection, listen to music on a proper sound system, watch live performances and enjoy a cocktail.
5. Mid Mountains Vintage, Woodford
Located across two levels on the Great Western Highway in Woodford, Mid Mountains Vintage is one of the best antique and vintage shops in the region. The shop has items from many different eras and styles, including a strong range of mid-century pieces, furniture, homewares and collectables. This is the kind of shop where you plan to stay for ten minutes but end up spending an hour looking around and finding something you did not know you needed. There is also a burger restaurant right next door, making it easy to stop for lunch.
6. Wentworth Falls Lake and Playground
If you are visiting the Blue Mountains with kids, Wentworth Falls Lake is a lovely place for people of all ages. The lakeside playground gives younger kids plenty to do, while the walk around the lake is flat and accessible. The views across the water are peaceful, making it a good place to slow down between busier stops on your Blue Mountains itinerary.
Conclusion
The places in this guide do not replace the famous attractions, but they add variety to your trip and make your day more memorable. They give you a chance to see a different side of the Blue Mountains by exploring some of the region’s unique places.
Our team knows the region well and can help you see more than the usual tourist spots. At Ready Steady Tour, we offer private tours in the Blue Mountains, giving you the freedom to explore the places that interest you the most and at your own pace. Call us today at 0434 136 329 or submit our online form to plan a private tour around your interests.
