For your next spring getaway, take a drive to the lush natural surrounds of the Blue Mountains. By Alex Dunkin.

We are well into spring making it the perfect time to venture out of the city for that last taste of crisp air before the swelter of summer arrives. And there’s no better place to visit than the Blue Mountains, a mere two-hour train ride from Sydney.

Hiking, sightseeing, adventure sports – the Blue Mountains has got your spring break covered.

The many trails that venture into the Blue Mountains grant unique views into some of the best preserved locations in Australia. For a day out it is the Blue Mountains Discovery Trail that is not to be missed. Situated between Katoomba and Wentworth Falls, the Discovery Trail is surrounded by Blue Mountain landmarks such as the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls, with many picnic stops and lookouts hidden in between.

From the lookouts, the stunning and daunting cliff faces and rugged features of the mountains contrast strikingly against the green of the trees. At closer inspection the new flowers of spring are blossoming and adding colour to the backdrop of the larger plants. Several companies offer guided walks through the scrub and forests and to top it off, they provide some wine and cheese tasting along the way.

The hikes and trails are just some of the things you can do at the Blue Mountains with abseiling, rock climbing, canyoning and mountain bike riding listed amongst the activities designed to get the heart pumping.

Taking the time to explore the Blue Mountains not only involves discovering the natural wonders but also requires indulging in some of the local delights. Hartley, one of the many towns nestled into the mountains, boast small shops and eateries which specialise in local produce. Chocolate, wine, art, fine foods – everything you could be ask for in a spring escape can be found in the Blue Mountains.

HIGHLIGHTS

Mayfield Garden Open Days
October 20-21
570 Mayfield Road, Oberon

The Mayfield Garden is one of the world’s largest, cool climate gardens which only opens its gates to the public for six weekends per year. The garden features over 160 acres of maintained gardens including an 80-metre cascade, water garden, oak forest and a maze.

Oktoberfest at The Carrington Hotel
October 27
15-47 Katoomba Street, Katoomba

The Carrington Hotel brings out all the stops for the German-inspired night. Join the locals in the historic venue which has been decked out to make you feel like you’re in an authentic beer hall that caters with all the German culinary delights.

Gypsy Concerts at Jenolan Caves
October 27
Jenolan Caves

Witness the Paganini Duo perform Hungarian gypsy music underground. Violinists Gustaw Joseph and guitarist Georg Merterns were brought up on a diet of gypsy music and spent years fine-tuning their talents at some of the world’s finest music schools.

Glenbrook Spring Festival
November 10
Glenbrook Village, Glenbrook

Local arts and crafts come out on display for this annual festival in the Blue Mountains. Bands, amusement rides and many food and produce stalls will be out to provide for a fun, family day out.