Blue Mountains

A rich history

According to Aboriginal legend, the Blue Mountains were formed when two half-fish, half-reptile creatures staged an epic battle spanning the entire mountain range, their struggles carving out the Burragorang Valley. The valley now exists as a protected area, ostensibly to protect its 400 species of animal life – but others say it’s because the spooky, abandoned valley is a holy place not to be tread.

The Aborigines have left their mark all over the range, from ancient hand prints in the Red Hands Cave to carvings on the trail of Wentworth Falls. Their myths have a recorded history of over 22,000 years and are still used to explain the sights today. For example, in the tale of the Three Sisters, there were once three sisters who fell in love with three brothers from a neighboring tribe. Tribal custom prevented them from marrying, causing the brothers to go to war. In all the danger of battle, a witchdoctor feared for the girls’ lives and turned them to stone for their own protection, but then he died before he could reverse the spell – leaving the Three Sisters as three 1000 meter cliffs overlooking the Jamison Valley, eternally waiting for their lovers to find them.

Famous attractions

The sisters aren’t the only famous attraction in the Blue Mountains. The Jenolan Caves are the oldest discovered caves in the world, dating back at least 340 million years. With over 40 meters of mazes, passageways and complex architecture, it’s still undergoing active exploration by local cavers, though parts have been opened and made safe for tourists. Take a guided tour and experience the sunlight reflecting off the cliffs, the warmth seeping into ancient stone.

Interested in abseiling? Try the Kanangra Walls in Kanangra Boyd National Park. It’s over 150 meters of beautiful, uncontrollable waterfall, just daring anyone brave enough to grab a hold.

If you’re looking for something a little less life-threatening, try a walk around Leura Cascades. Far away from the more touristy Katoomba, Leura Cascades offers a long scenic walk through the Bridal Veil Falls with plenty of natural beauty and local wildlife. Try to catch a glimpse of the elusive potoroo or the friendly koala – just don’t cross paths with a spotted tiger cat!