Everyone loves a good view and NSW’s grand, natural playground is filled with some stunning vistas. Sitting pretty between canyons, small towns, ancient caves and gorgeous wildlife, the Blue Mountains’ lush and vast landscape is an oasis for the outdoorsy. The heritage-listed site has a number of photogenic lookouts with sweeping views of the mountains, valleys and beyond. With a long weekend around the corner, hit the road and relish some of the most Instagram-worthy views in town at these superb lookouts in the Blue Mountains. They also double up as excellent sunset spots. All the locations listed are within a short driving distance of downtown Sydney.
1. Echo Point Lookout, Katoomba
Head to the popular Echo Point lookout for beautiful views of the Jamison Valley and the iconic Three Sisters which is best viewed from this particular lookout. The iconic rock formation which was formed thousands of years ago and consists of three sandstone peaks is a must-see if you’re visiting the Blue Mountains. From the edge of the escarpment, you can also enjoy a bird’s eye view over Jamison Valley and it’s lush network of canyons and valleys. Reach this lookout within a 1 hour, 30-minute drive from Sydney. Get directions to the photogenic spot here.
2. Wentworth Falls Lookout, Blue Mountains National Park
This easy-to-reach lookout within the Blue Mountains National Park will take you to a gorgeous waterfall and views of the valley below. It’s also located a few minutes’ walk from the carpark making it easily accessible for everyone. At close range is also the Wentworth Falls picnic area with lush rainforests and waterfalls if you want to get amongst nature. You can get to this spot within a 1 hour, 30-minute drive from Sydney. Head here for more on how to get there.
3. Narrow Neck Lookout, Katoomba
One of the best ways to take in the Blue Mountains’ vast scenery is at this lookout located a little over a 90-minute drive from Sydney. As the name suggests, Narrow Neck lookout has sweeping views over the Narrow Neck Peninsula, a plateau that divides the Jamison and Megalong Valleys. There is a lovely lookout on Cliff Drive down over Narrow Neck and the two valleys that will have you snapping that new photo for the ‘gram. Find more info about it here.
4. Govett’s Leap
Located in the Blue Mountains National Park, Govett’s Leap consists of an observation area where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the valley and enjoy a bit on the picnic tables set up on site. One of NSW’s most famous lookouts also features stunning views of Bridal Veil waterfall which drops 180m to the base of the cliff. This is an easy to get to lookout with several accessible paths, which makes it perfectly suited for everyone. Find more info here.
5. Hargraves Lookout, Blackheath
This popular Blackheath spot has some of the best views of rural Megalong Valley, Narrow Neck and even as far as Oberon. Hargraves Lookout has an excellent, wide view with great photo and sightseeing opportunities over the valley. Get a panoramic view of rolling hills, orchards and more, just a 2-hour drive from Sydney. Find it near the end of the Shipley Plateau in Blackheath. Read more about it here.
6. Cahill’s Lookout, Katoomba
While a popular local spot, Cahill’s Lookout is fairly underrated making it the perfect spot for unadulterated views without the hectic crowds you’ll usually find in the south of Katoomba. It’s hidden in the westernmost point of Cliff Drive with views of the valley, Megalong Head, the Narrow Neck Peninsula and Boars Head Rock. It’s easily accessed via a leisurely stroll to a 500-metre-long pathway that will lead you directly to the lookout platform.
7. Evans Lookout, Blackheath
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, the views over Evans Lookout will never fail to impress. Overlooking the sandstone cliffs of the Grose River Valley, it’s an idyllic spot that is perfect for a picnic or birdwatching. It’s also especially beautiful at sunset providing the perfect picturesque backdrop so worth making a day trip of it. Read more about the beautiful spot here.
Looking for more adventures in the Blue Mountains? Check out this dreamy natural infinity pool or head to this vibrant garden for a picnic under the sun.
8. Mount Portal Lookout
Located in the Blue Mountains National Park, Portal Lookout is a quaint spot that offers spectacular views of the junction between Glenbrook Gorge and the Nepean River in Western Sydney. Wheelchair users can easily access this lookout and it’s also an excellent place for adventure seekers who enjoy activities like abseiling and climbing. You can reach Portal Lookout within an hour’s drive from Sydney. Read more about this lookout and how to get there here.
9. Olympian Rock Lookout, Blue Mountains National Park
The scenic vistas at the little-known Olympian Rock await you just a short 90-minute drive from Sydney. This is a fenced lookout at the edge of the cliff, just off the Prince Henry Cliff Walk in Leura with fantastic views over Jamison Valley. There is also a bench at the lookout to enjoy the view without battling the crowds at other popular lookouts like Echo Point and Govett’s Leap.
10. Fortress Rock, Leura
The relatively under-the-radar Fortress Rock in the lovely town of Leura can be reached after a fairly easy bushwalk on Mount Hay Road. Once there, you’ll see a rock platform on the edge of a tall cliff with stunning views over Grose Valley. It’s one of the lesser-known walks in the area and perfect for those wanting to avoid the crowds. You can find Mount Hay Road close to Leura Mall, around a 2-hour drive from Sydney.