The Blue Mountains.

The world heritage listed Blue Mountains are surrounded by thousands of hectares of pristine wilderness, rugged landscapes and an abundance of flora and fauna.

More than three million people come to the National Park each year.

Yes, this region is a special place....

For many, it's enough just to find a lookout and gaze across the park's chiselled sandstone outcrops and hazy blue forests.

Others walk or cycle along the cliff-tops and in the valleys, following paths that were originally created for sightseers, or discovered by Aboriginal hunters many thousands of years ago.

Over 140 km of walking tracks of all grades (some accessible for people with a disability) in diverse settings make the Blue Mountains a bush walker's paradise.

In this park, which is part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, you'll find an amazingly diverse range of vegetation.

There are rare and ancient plants and isolated animal populations tucked away in its deep gorges.

This is a huge and very beautiful place.

The National Park is only 50 kms from Sydney and can be accessed via the Great Western Highway which divides the northern and southern sections of the park.

There are many entry points to the park along this road – particularly around Glenbrook, Wentworth Falls, Katoomba and Blackheath.

The climate of this region is somewhat cooler than the lower Sydney region.

During the winter months (June, July, August), the average temperature in the Upper Mountains is around 5°C, while in summer (December, January, February) the average temperature reaches around 18°C.

The Lower Mountains have a much warmer climate, ranging between an average of 16°C in winter and 29°C in the summer months.

As uplifting air masses come into contact with the Blue Mountains, the moisture in the air cools and condenses, as a result, there is generally more rain in the mountains than in Sydney.

Although the Blue Mountains have a reputation for snow in winter, there are generally only around five snow days each year in the Upper Mountains.

Snow is extremely rare below Lawson, though frost, ice and sleet are common.

No matter what time of year you visit the Blue Mountains, you won't be disappointed.

In summer, the mountains offer cool relief from Sydney's sticky heat, and although winters can be chilly, you'll be fine as long as you pack warm clothing.

Many people enjoy 'Christmas in July' in the cosy warmth of the mountains' many hotels and lodges.

If you're looking for wildflowers, you'll find waratahs, gymea lilies and other native beauties in bloom around September in the lower Blue Mountains (around Glenbrook).

Spring comes a little later to the upper mountains.

Try going on a wildflower walk around Wentworth Falls, Katoomba, Blackheath and Mount Wilson in October.

Discovery wildflower tours, run by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, are available in the park.

Several rivers run through the area, the main ones being Coxs River, Grose River, Kowmung River, Nepean River, and Wollangambe River and there are several nearby national parks and reserves which are also well worth a visit.

Before setting out, make sure you have topographic maps for the areas you plan to walk in.

Be prepared for all weather conditions (see average climate in the park)and always tread softly......

The World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains is surrounded by thousands of hectares of pristine wilderness, rugged landscapes and an abundance of flora and fauna.

Kangaroos & Wallabies can be regularly seen to the east and west, while an amazing array of birdlife can be found right throughout the mountains.

Shady rainforest canopies and wonderful flowering eucalypts blend with cool climate exotic gardens and magnificently landscaped gardens.

From the Nepean River and foothills to the east, rugged peaks and spectacular views at the summit and the sometimes snow covered pastures on the Western Plains, our glorious mountains are a delight all year round.

Art has always played a major part of the region's life and you'll find artists, galleries and craft shops in most villages.

Whether you are seeking solitude and rejuvenation, adventure and excitement or simply an indulgent treat, the Blue Mountains is a must-see for your next holiday.

Comprising a chain of dozens of villages, each with its own charm and unique appeal, the Blue Mountains area is at times a living museum filled with convict and colonial heritage.

Then it magically transforms into wild celebration during our many village festivals, or displays a cosmopolitan face through the diversity of our cafes and restaurants.

As I said before, a very special place…....enjoy,

John.

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