When it comes to winter getaways in NSW, the Blue Mountains is a firm favourite — and for good reason. With its abundance of natural wonders, charming towns, beautiful walking trails, lookouts, snowy landscapes, and cosy dining spots by the fire, it’s the perfect escape when the temperatures drop. Now, the beloved local destination has gained global recognition once again, ranking among the world’s most iconic natural wonders based on TikTok post volume. It ranks among heavyweights like the Canadian Rockies and the Dolomites — while beating out equally big-name landmarks like the Great Barrier Reef, the Serengeti, and Yellowstone National Park.
Most Popular Natural Wonders on TikTok
The data was analysed by family travel specialists Kuoni, based on relevant hashtags for each site, including alternate names, nicknames, and common spelling variations.
From Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands to the Italian Dolomites, every major continent in the world features on the list. The Canadian Rocky Mountains took the top spot, with over 442,000 posts showcasing the region’s natural beauty. South Africa claimed two spots in the top 10, while NSW’s Blue Mountains came in at number 18, with more than 60,000 posts.
Japan’s Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, the Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island, India’s Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area, South Africa’s Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, and Grand Canyon National Park in the US rounded out the top 5.
Why winter is the best time to visit the Blue Mountains
This enchanting pocket of NSW is a year-round winner, but it’s even better in the cooler months, with fewer crowds, pleasant temps for bushwalks, clear skies, and real potential for snow. Settle into a cosy cafe in Leura, go vintage shopping in Blackheath, or soak up the historical sights in Katoomba.
If you prefer outdoor adventure, you can spend your days exploring the scenic trails of Blue Mountains National Park, visit an enchanting secret garden, or grab a bite by an open fireplace.
Find more of our favourite winter getaways here and start planning!