Top 10 Things to Do This Winter in the Blue Mountains

Winter in the Blue Mountains is pure magic—crisp air, golden light, and the kind of stillness that lets you properly slow down. Whether you’re planning a cosy weekend or a longer retreat, here’s our guide to ten of the best local experiences to help you soak it all in.

For a true winter warm-up, you can’t go past the region’s growing wellness scene. Blue Mountains Sauna in Leura offers an authentic, community-minded sauna experience with traditional Aufguss steam rituals guided by skilled sauna masters. It’s a welcoming, down-to-earth spot that’s as much about connection as it is about heat and cold therapy.

New to the scene is Aqua Ignis, a beautifully designed bathhouse in Blackheath surrounded by native bushland. With thermal mineral pools, a steam room, sauna, and quiet zones for deep rest, it’s a more contemporary, meditative take on the wellness experience and an ideal way to spend a chilly winter afternoon.

Skip the tourist trails and explore the quieter western side of the Mountains. Porters Pass and Centennial Glen walks offer stunning escarpment views, lush gullies, and best of all, they are dog friendly. For the more adventurous, try the Grand Canyon Walk by torchlight. Yes, at night! You will spot glow worms and hear the rustle of nocturnal wildlife – pure winter magic.

If you’re serious about coffee, you will want to track down Jeremy at Sanguinary in Blackheath (weekdays only). His attention to detail and devotion to the craft make every cup a standout. A true local gem.

Set in the stunning Megalong Valley, Megalong Restaurant at LOT 101 is a hyper-local fine dining experience surrounded by working farm gardens and escarpment views. Nearly all produce is grown organically onsite, with meat from the farm’s own cattle and sheep. It’s a bit of a splurge – but absolutely worth it. Tip: book well in advance.

Run by the Lot 101 team, the Megalong Valley Tearooms pair old-school charm with seriously good food and coffee. Head there on a Saturday morning to catch their produce markets, selling fruit, veggies, and perhaps even a loaf of sourdough fresh from the restaurant’s woodfired oven.

Winter skies put on a show, and we have two favourite spots to enjoy them:

• Hat Hill Lookout (end of Hat Hill Road, Blackheath): A short walk to a 360-degree view. Bring a bottle, a picnic rug, and some snacks.

• Evans Lookout (Blackheath): Arrive just before sunset, after the crowds have left, and watch the golden light turn the cliffs to fire.

Fresh, generous plates, excellent service, and a warm atmosphere – Sushi n Co. in Katoomba is a great spot for lunch or dinner, especially after a long bushwalk.

For a classic pub meal and what might just be the best Guinness in the state, head to the Ivanhoe Hotel in Blackheath. A great place to warm up by the fire after a day outdoors.

Held on the second Sunday of each month, this market is a local favourite. Don’t miss Jordan at Kurmond Organics for fresh, top-quality produce, and stock up on seedlings if you’re starting your own veggie patch. (Ours grew brilliantly!)

Independent bookshops are rare and precious – Gleebooks Blackheath is one of the best. Thoughtfully curated, beautifully run, and always worth a browse. Buy a book, find a sunny spot, and spend the afternoon getting lost in a story.