Wentworth Falls  New South Wales

One of three major towns in the famous Blue Mountains (the other two are Katoomba and Leura), Wentworth Falls lies about 105km west of Sydney. With its magnificent mountain scenery and cool, scented mountain air, it's not surprising that it has long been a favourite holiday destination.

Originally called Weatherboard, and then Jamison's Valley, it wasn’t until 1879 that the name was changed to Wentworth Falls in honour of William Charles Wentworth, who, along with Gregory Blaxland and William Lawson, was credited with forging the first crossing of the Blue Mountains in 1813.

Wentworth Falls Lake has safe swimming, a picnic area and plenty of ducks eager to share your picnic with you! The Blue Mountains National Park has many attractive picnic areas in the vicinity. From Wentworth Falls Picnic Area, there is a short walk to Princes Rock Lookout, which provides spectacular views of Wentworth Falls, Jamison Valley and Kings Tableland. A longer walk takes you on a circular route into the valley.

From Valley of the Waters Picnic Area, there is a walking track to Empress Lookout, offering mountain views. The Valley of the Waters Nature Track is more challenging but very rewarding.

Kings Tableland is an ancient Aboriginal site, believed to have been occupied for 22,000 years. The Kings Tableland Observatory is open every weekend. During the day, the sun can be observed, while in the evening, the night sky can be studied.

Festivals: Wentworth Falls Autumn Festival (April)

Things to do:

Picnic at Wentworth Falls Lake

Walk to Princes Rock Lookout - views of Wentworth Falls, Jamison Valley and Kings Tableland

Walk to Empress Lookout - distant mountain views

Walk the Valley of the Waters Nature Track

Kings Tableland Observatory - for night sky viewing

In the area:

Visit Katoomba and Leura