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There’s a lookout on the edge of the Jamison Valley called Sublime Point, and I’d argue it’s the most aptly named spot in the Blue Mountains. In its philosophical sense, the sublime describes something so vast and beautiful it borders on overwhelming – even terrifying. Stand here, gazing across an endless sea of knotted eucalypts framed by towering sandstone escarpments, and the meaning becomes pretty immediately clear. In my opinion, it’s not the only place in the BMs that inspires that feeling, either. You’ll find the same heart-stopping sense of wonder at Echo Point, where the Three Sisters rise from the valley to your left and bright red parrots swoop between the trees. And just a few steps away from Echo Point, you’ll encounter the word's other, less philosophical meaning. Fresh from a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, Lilianfels represents the sublime in the more familiar sense: impeccably designed and luxuriously appointed, it’s a note-perfect countryside escape.
What is Lilianfels like?
Grand, glamorous and gloriously old-world. Originally built in 1889 as the summer residence of Lieutenant-Governor of NSW Sir Frederick Darley, the heritage-listed estate has been serving as a mountain getaway mainstay for decades. Now, after a multimillion-dollar makeover, the appeal goes far beyond the hotel’s historic bones and immaculately manicured grounds. Service is first-rate, rooms are Instagrammable-as-heck, and the Martini trolley is ready for your post-hike hang by the fire. If you’re looking for a high-end country estate stay (within striking distance of some of the area’s best bushwalks), this is your spot.
What are the rooms like at Lilianfels?
Acclaimed Australian interiors studio Luchetti Krelle is behind the newly refurbished rooms, and they’re straight out of Country Life: all bespoke cushioned bedheads, marble-topped tables and statement vintage furniture. Each of the 89 rooms and suites have been totally redesigned, with three colour palettes creating different moods, all equally English manor house-coded. Bathrooms are spacious and luxe, stacked with fluffy towels and cute touches like Ardour-branded bath salts.
Which are the restaurant options at Lilianfels?
As you’d hope from a country house-style stay, food is a major drawcard here. The hotel's acclaimed Darley's Restaurant is a Blue Mountains' fave if you’re looking for fine dining, serving a refined menu of seasonal local produce and a very impressive wine list. For something more relaxed, Miss Lilian dishes up playful Southeast Asian plates.
The recent renovation has also introduced The Lounge, a new central bar designed for everything from pre-dinner cocktails to late-night whiskies (and snacks in between). The menu features elevated comfort food like fish pie and a loaded beef burger, alongside curated wines and signature cocktails. This is where afternoon tea is served, and it’s a must if you’re here on a girls trip – immaculately presented towers of delicate snacks, served with tea, coffee or Taittinger.
What is the service like at Lilianfels?
In our experience, the service went above and beyond. The team was warm, genuinely enthusiastic and clearly worked as one, whether they were organising an impromptu spa session or squeezing us into the earliest slot on the tennis court. Down in the spa, after pouring us a second round of tea, one of the therapists described the Lilianfels team (most of whom stayed on through the transition to the Ardour brand) as "a family". It felt like more than just a nice line – it really rang true.
Is there a gym at Lilianfels?
Guests have access to an on-site fitness centre, but with the epic hikes on your doorstep, you’ll find it easy to get your step count up out in the mountain air.
Is there a pool at Lilianfels?
Not one but two, and they’re a major part of the appeal. There’s an indoor heated swimming pool framed by cushioned loungers and ornate pillars, and an outdoor pool set among the gardens between pink umbrellas. The outdoor pool is closed during winter.
Is there a spa at Lilianfels?
Down a warmly-lit staircase by the indoor pool, you’ll find Èliva day spa – a gorgeous wellness haven offering top-tier treatments, with a bathhouse complete with sauna, steam room and a huge, heavenly hot tub.
What's the area like around Lilianfels?
You'd be hard-pressed to find a better base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Lilianfels sits literally steps from Echo Point and the famous Three Sisters lookout, with walking tracks, waterfalls and dramatic escarpment views all within easy reach. If you want those famous BM views without needing to walk more than 500 metres, this is your place. Katoomba's cafés, galleries and boutiques are also just an easy walk away, making it easy to pair mega hikes with cute coffee dates and cosy dinners.
Why should you book a stay at Lilianfels?
If you're after a high-end Blue Mountains escape with genuine heritage creds, Lilianfels is hard to beat.
Address: 5-19 Lilianfels Avenue, Katoomba NSW 2780
Price per night: From $609 per night
Closest transport link: Katoomba Station (around five minutes by car or around 20 minutes on foot)
Book now: Over here.
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