The Blue Mountains are only a 90-minute drive or 2-hour train ride from Sydney but a vastly different landscape. Cliffs, caves, sandstone rock formations, waterfalls and never-ending Eucalyptus forests make this area particularly stunning.
The name Blue Mountains comes from the blue haze created by the scattering of shortwave light, making the air look blue when viewed from a distance. One theory suggests this is caused by light refracting off of oil droplets released by the Eucalyptus trees. This phenomenon can be seen in other areas of the world as well, so the Eucalyptus connection may not be entirely accurate.
Unfortunately, while we were there at the beginning of January, some active fires nearby meant the haze we saw was grey or orange and thick with smoke.
Katoomba
There are several towns in the area but we chose to stay in Katoomba. With a population of about 8000, it is the largest town in the Blue Mountains area. Before booking, I had read of a street art walk, so you know that factored into my decision to stay here too.
There were a several pieces of art scattered throughout the town. These two caught my attention.
But the main attraction is the actual Street Art Walk located on Beverly Place. This was a community-led initiative to fill this laneway with murals created by local, national and international artists.
There was smoke in the air all day while we were exploring the town but it was nothing like what moved in around 5:30pm. By then we were back at our B&B, sitting on the porch. I took a video of the smoke as it moved in with the mist and engulfed the area. Within an hour the sky had taken on an eerie orange glow. Sunset was still at least a couple of hours off.
We spent the evening sitting on the porch, watching headlights cut through the orange, wondering what the next day would bring.
Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park was closed due to the fire-related state of emergency. All of the areas that we had hoped to go were off-limits. The Echo Point lookout with its view over the Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters rock formation was the only thing we got to see during this trip. It was still worth it.
I bet it is quite rare during the summer season to see this place empty. If the trail had been open, we could have walked right out to the Three Sisters for a very different view. Perhaps another time we will get to return.
Although the enormous devastation of this unprecedented fire season overshadowed our time in Australia, I believe I have an even greater appreciation for the country and its people because of it. I’ve struggled with posting photos and talking about our frivolous travels, given the seriousness of the situation.
Now the whole world is experiencing unprecedented times with the pandemic. Travel to another country is not even on the radar. I am glad I have these memories and can share them with others.
Someday, I hope to be out and about in the world again. For now, I have one more adventure from this trip to share with you. Stay tuned for Fiji.
Thanks for the posting. I hope you go back so I can see more of the blue mountains on your blog.
Wow Jen, loved the street art……some of it needs some explanation for sure, but impressive all! AT