The best accommodation in the Blue Mountains

If you’re looking to go all out on your trip to the Blue Mountains – to stay in a hotel that reflects the intense natural beauty of the area – this is the answer. Design lover Angela O’Connell took on the property after the devastating bushfires of 2019 – a 6.8-hectare pocket of bushland on the border of the Blue Mountains National Park. With a vision of creating "a luxurious sanctuary immersed in nature", Angela set about designing the four standalone chalets that now punctuate the property and seeding native plants that have since grown to create a maze-like, leafy oasis.

The architecturally-stunning chalets hide at the end of dusty paths that weave between the newly thriving trees. Amongst the bush, you’ll also find a wide communal firepit where guests roast marshmallows on clear, cloudless nights, and a fleet of e-bikes waiting to be taken for a spin along the sun-drenched mountain paths.

Time Out tip: Although the chalets are well equipped with everything you need to cook up a winter feast by the fire or a summer barbecue under the stars, it’s worth checking out at least one restaurant in town during your stay. Our Pick? Frankie and Mo’s – a gorgeous family-run wine bar serving up seasonal dishes and excellent, low-intervention vino.

Address: 394 Evans Lookout Road, Blackheath NSW, 2785

Price per night:  From $1,300 per night.

Perched on the edge of the world’s widest canyon, this collection of seethrough, spherical tents offer a completely out-of-this-world experience. The bubble-like domes offer uninterrupted views of the Milky Way, and each tent is totally secluded – dotted around the huge property, each with a uniquely magnificent vantage point. Each of the five sites features a telescope, a fire pit, an outdoor shower and a wood-fired bathtub under the stars.

Time Out tip: Pack pizza ingredients and cook your dinner in a wood-fired pizza oven. It’s also worth noting that the drive from Sydney takes at least three hours with breaks, so leave yourself enough time.

Address: 52 Castlereagh Hwy, Capertee, New South Wales, 2846

Price per night: From $1,400 per night.

Just thirty three kilometres from Katoomba lies arguably the Blue Mountains’ best kept secret. The tiny town of Kanimbla has a residence of just 151 people, and (at almost 700m above sea level) is one of the highest localities in all of New South Wales. The area boasts arresting rural panoramas and the Hilltop Cabin, perched at the summit of Mt. Kanimbla, is the ultimate lodging from which to behold them in all their glory. 

The Hilltop Cabin is one of four boutique havens owned by Mt Kanimbla Retreats. Set across two wild, sprawling estates, they have been voted one of the ‘top three most wish-listed properties’ on Airbnb for their unique, unrivalled escapes surrounded by the untamed scenery of world-heritage listed Australia.

Time Out tip: The poolside, cargo net hammock is positioned out over the sloping hillside, and when given the opportunity to rug up in a blanket and while away an afternoon here, reading books, drinking tea, and spotting the occasional kangaroo, or eagle, through the thoughtfully provided binoculars, well – it would be bloody rude not to.

Address: 43 Megalong Place, Kanimbla, NSW 2785

Price per night: From $750 per night.

For thrill seekers heading to the Blue Mountains for an adventure-based holiday that will provide plenty of chances to get up close to nature, the canvas cabins of Turon Gates will be right up your street. You’ll need good navigational skills to find the site, but it’s well worth the bother. Wash away the day’s dirt with a hot shower, before cooking dinner on the outside fire and then settling in for an excellent night’s sleep in the cloud-like bed. Sunvale is the newest addition to Turon Gates, featuring an expansive deck with beautiful Blue Mountains vistas, a dreamy hot tub, an outdoor barbecue, a crackling fireplace and plush beds, Sunvale is set up for a good time, and is as luxe as it gets in the bush.

Rooms? Four beds. Sleeps up to eight guests

The mood? Modern yet rustic. 

Time Out tip: Travelling with a smaller group? There are other glamping and cabin options available to book on the property.

Since 1904, the Hydro Majestic has been an elegant sentinel on Sydney’s western border, perched on a precipice in the Blue Mountains suburb of Medlow Bath. There are 67 rooms that have been refurbished with old-world glamour, all the high-speed super convenient modcons and a dashing monochrome colour scheme. The plush suites have views across the hotel gardens and out towards the majestic Megalong Valley. You can take high tea in the illustrious Art Deco building or simply enjoy your grand surroundings. This is old-school glamour, so if you’re looking for a trendy stay, look elsewhere.  

Time Out tip: Lean into the old-school energy and book high tea overlooking the mountains.

Address: 52/88 Great Western Hwy, Medlow Bath, NSW, 2780

Price per night: From $219 per night.

If it’s rejuvenation for a worn out body and mind that you’re after, Lilianfels Resort and Spa is the place to head. The retreat is set on the edge of a cliff overlooking the mountains and Jamison Valley below, a position that feels like it’s literally at the ends of the earth. Focus on some self care at the day spa, ease post-hike muscles in the heated pool, dive into the gourmet menus and wine lists at the venue’s multiple restaurants and bars, or simply chill in your plush room. There are 89 guest rooms and suites designed to reflect the old world glamour of the building's history as a 19th century summer home.

Time Out tip: Book a table at Miss Lilian for a delicious Southeast Asian feast – best enjoyed after a big hike through the mountains.

Address: 5/19 Lilianfels Ave, Katoomba NSW 2780

Price per night: From $400 per night.

For more than 140 years, this elegant heritage-listed hotel has been a landmark in Katoomba. The impressive estate has an air of opulence that you can only find in venues that have endured four centuries of styling. You’re sure to be impressed by the grand dining room, Art Deco stained glass facade, on-site cellar and deli, stables and splendid views. This old girl also has many a billiard room and lounge where you can socialise with fellow travellers before retiring to your room or suite, as well as two bars for holiday tipples. 

Time Out tip: Katoomba is home to some of the very best op shops in the state, so leave space in your suitcase.

Address: 15-47 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW, 2780

Price per night: From $180 per night.