Chris AshtonLess than two hours from the bright lights of Sydney, the Blue Mountains is a region tailor-made for unforgettable road trips. Colourful towns, ancient World Heritage-listed national parks, and spectacular clifftop lookouts; it’s an incredible destination all year round.
Most visitors tend to travel up and along the Great Western Highway, yet there’s another access to the region that deserves your attention – the Bells Line of Road. Beginning at North Richmond Bridge over the Hawkesbury River, this historic driving route is an underrated gem.
Carla Armanet, Director Experiences, Sport & Engagement from the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah – the only botanic gardens within a UNESCO world heritage area – says the region makes a great day trip or weekend away from Sydney.
“An alternative route through the Blue Mountains, Bells Line of Road is jam-packed with places to see and things to do,” Armanet says. “Weaving through fertile farmland, quaint towns and cool climate Gardens – there are experiences to suit all ages and interests.”
To help support local communities along the road which are reliant on tourism, visitors are being encouraged to pack an empty esky to fill with local treats to take home.
You can mix and match a handful of experiences using the Blue Mountains Road Trip site, which offers curated itineraries that’ll satisfy everyone from foodies to hikers.
You could stop to enjoy crisp apple cider from the Bilpin Cider Co cellar door, kick back in front of a roaring fireplace at the amazing Spicers Sangoma Retreat, duck in to The Hive for a coffee and some bush honey, or pick your own fruit at the Pine Crest Orchard.
For more info on the region, visit sydneytobluemountains.com.au
