Winter in the Blue Mountains is a truly and gloriously unique time of year. Showcasing clear blue skies and the handshake promise of smatterings of snow, things really only get better here at this time of year. The days may be crisply cool, but with a little preparation and some adventurous gusto under your belt, our winter wonderland can offer you a fantastic half-yearly getaway unmatched across our sunburnt country.
So, what is the best way to approach your winter getaway itinerary? Well my friend, that depends entirely on you.
Get among the wilderness
Now is the perfect time to dust off your hiking boots and get out into the lush green forests our mountainous terrain boasts. Take a walk through the pristine wilderness, choose from one of the dozens of hiking trails, or simply meander through the artisan-lined streets of Leura – just be sure to don your warmest winter coat and waterproof shoes for comforts sake.
Revel in the festivities
The Blue Mountains local community offers a foray of exciting celebrations over the winter months, with Yulefest seemingly the most revelled in and infamous.
Running throughout this month and next, Yulefest is a time for those hoping to indulge in a truly European Christmas in July so to speak. Local providores delight in offering visitors special offers and experiences, and the streets come alive with Christmas cheer.
Book a 3-night stay during Yulefest at Mountain Whispers and arrive to a bottle of Moet & Chandon on ice and two dozen gourmet chocolates, as well as all the festive trimmings, including a tree and decorations.
Spot the wildlife
Despite the common misconception that the mountains are barren during the cooler months, winter is still a great opportunity for visitors to spot the local native wildlife. Guests at Mountain Whispers have reported common sightings of kangaroos leaving snowy pawprint tracks in our gardens while they sip on hot chocolate on their private balconies, while shy wombats have been spotted in nearby woodlands. Keen birdwatches will still enjoy a vast array of flighted friends, and the crisp, clear air makes for sensational visibility.
Capture the perfect shot
Amateur photographers flock to our many lookouts at both sunrise and sunset at this time of year due to the beautiful colours and occasional fogs dancing across the mountains backdrop. Favourite hotspots include: Katoomba Falls, Govett’s Leap and Sublime Point.
Cosy Up
If winters’ idyllic climate lends itself perfectly to nothing else, its’ the best excuse to batten down the hatches and snuggle up together by a roaring fireplace. Select your beverage of choice (MW Collections guests will be greeted by a variety of tea, coffee, hot chocolate and scrumptious port), unpack your bed socks and finally finish that book you’ve been meaning to get to for too long now.
Book your accommodation
For first timers to the mountains throughout the winter months, it is crucial to note how quickly accommodation options will be snapped up. As this is considered our biggest and most revered time of year to holiday, it really is best to think ahead. Don’t leave booking your getaway till the last minute, and browse our luxury accommodations and availability for all 5 properties here.
Weather predictions
As we all know, weather across the nation can be highly unpredictable and there is no guarantee of snowfall during your stay. You can however keep an eye on our local forecasts here, and there is never any harm in keeping your fingers crossed for a gentle downfall of snow.
Taking Care
While the mountains certainly do provide a striking environment for sightseeing and outdoor activities, we do highly recommend that our guests take extra care when travelling on our roads or walkways at this time of year.
Rain or snow can make roads slippery, so always stick to the speed limit (or drop 10kms if you are concerned) and be sure to clear any frost from your windows, mirrors and tyres. Braking gently before heading in to corners can help to avoid wheel spinning, and as always, it’s best to leave a safe travelling distance between your vehicle and the car ahead of you, especially on some of our beautiful winding roads.
If you are a first visitor to the mountains this winter, you’ll want to be sure you stay in a convenient location, right in the heart of all of the magical action. With 5 convenient locations situated in the heart of the mountains, our private properties offer both the serene isolation for relaxation, and a handy base-point to head out on your chosen adventure. Once you arrive to your centrally-heated cottage, complete with all of the creature comforts to make you feel immediately at home, you can rest assured that your frosty getaway will be hassle-free, and as relaxing or as adventurous as you’d like it to be.
