One of Blue Mountains’ most developed towns, Katoomba sits at an altitude of 1,017m above sea level. Katoomba is home to many of the well known Blue Mountains tourist attractions, such as the Scenic Railway and Skyway, as well as the Three Sisters.
With a population of 7923, this region is especially known for its landmarks, stone structures as well as incredible lookout points.
A two-hour train ride from Sydney, Katoomba is extremely welcoming to tourists and offers a variety of events and activities to add some extra panache to your vacation.
What to do at Katoomba?
Unlike other small towns, this particular region flares to life at night, with cafes, pubs and restaurants open until the early hours of the morning.
Echo Point’s Three Sisters is quite easily one of the better-known attractions in Katoomba and the general Blue Mountains region. Indeed, no visit can be considered complete unless you’ve trekked the rugged terrain that takes you to this impressive rock formation.
Located at Echo Point, this remarkable landmark can comfortably accommodate the million of visitors who flock there every year.
According to an ancient Aboriginal legend, this rock formation derives its name from three sisters who were turned to stone to protect them from impending danger.
Unfortunately, the witch doctor was murdered before he was able to reverse the spell, leaving the sisters as rock formations for eternity.
While this legend only serves to enhance the mystique surrounding Katoomba’s Three Sisters, visitors are also treated to a truly spectacular view of the surrounding regions from the multiple viewpoints that were set up on this mountain trail.
Set against a dark cerulean sky, this formation gradually changes colors throughout the day as the sunlight glows and dims on the rocks.
In this area, you will also see a variety of rare bird species such as the Lyre bird.
It should be noted that Katoomba’s Three Sisters rock formation stands at 3000 feet over sea level, providing you with a unique view over the area.
If you’ve got a moderate to excellent level of fitness and if you feel like exploring the area, you might want to check out the Giant Stairway.
With no less than 800 steps to cover, these steps offer a truly awe-inspiring journey toward the Jamison valley.
Located not far from the Three Sisters, Katoomba’s Giant Stairway is teeming with wildlife.
If they are lucky, visitors might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Rosellas bird as they feed on sunflower seeds.
Scenic Railway and Skyway
As the name suggests, the Scenic Railway delivers a glorious view of Katoomba through a unique 52-degree ride that will leave you breathless.
This thrilling experience basically consists of a glass-bottomed and glass-roofed carriages that will take you across thick rainforests where you can enjoy a 310 metres ride across the floor of the Jamison Valley.
First established in 1945, the Scenic Railway is now one of Katoomba’s many historic landmarks.
If you’re a fan of such daring activities, you might also enjoy the Scenic Skyway.
This ride is suspended 270 metres above Katoomba’s many ravines, hence allowing you to enjoy an exclusive 360° view of the region.
The cabin floor is made from electro-glass which largely contributes to the thrilling aspect of the ride.
Katoomba Hotels
Where is the best place to stay in Katoomba? Click through the hotels below to check availability and pricing.
Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa
From $246
The Summit House Katoomba
From $265
Winston Cottage
From $265
Mountain Whispers Chatelaine Valley
From $487
Blue Mountains YHA
From $16
Echo Point Motor Inn
From $60
Alpine Motor Inn
From $89
Three Explorers Motel
From $98
Palais Royale
From $113
Shiralee's Rest of Katoomba
From $116
Carrington Hotel
From $133
Kurrara Historic Guest House
From $136
Windradyne Boutique Bed & Breakfast
From $147
Hotel Mountain Heritage Blue Mountains
From $153
Rodova Cottage
From $192
Echoes Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
From $247
Sidneys Retreat
From $248
Pretty Haven
From $286
Mountain Whispers The Gatsby
From $361
Clarendon Budget
From $61
Metropole Katoomba Guesthouse
From $61
Katoomba Town Centre Motel
From $68
La Maison Boutique Hotel
From $68
Blue Mountains G'Day Motel
From $71
Sky Rider Motor Inn
From $74
Clarendon Motel and Guesthouse
From $77
Blue Mountains Heritage Motel
From $77
3 Sisters Motel
From $77
Belgravia Mountain Guest House
From $86
Katoomba Hotel
From $107
Shelton-Lea Bed & Breakfast
From $140
Keira Cottage
From $145
Sunnyside Katoomba
From $149
Hotel Blue Katoomba
From $161
Kits Coty
From $176
Golfers Delight Katoomba
From $184
Carinya Cottage Katoomba
From $199
Boobook Hollow
From $202
Allambee
From $212
Sunflower Cottage Katoomba
From $216
Bunyip Cottage
From $234
Echo Point Village
From $240
Wildlife Lodge Katoomba
From $243
Jarara Cottage
From $260
Geebung Cottage
From $274
Minnehaha Katoomba
From $285
Treetops Retreat Katoomba
From $292
Narrow Neck Lodge
From $892
Katoomba Mountain Lodge Backpackers
From $16
Flying Fox Backpackers
From $18
No 14 Hostel
From $46
Blue Mountains Backpacker Hostel
From $49
Alexandra Hotel Katoomba
From $86
Selah Cottage
From $138
Crimson Villa
From $138
Lush on Lurline
From $122
