Megalong Valley

One of the Blue Mountains’ best-kept secrets, getting to Megalong Valley is an adventure in itself, the winding road from Blackheath passing through temperate rainforest filled with soaring eucalypts and emerald tree ferns. The Megalong Valley is a rural paradise of verdant pastures and pristine forests, and home to gorgeous getaway cabins, a rustic tea room, wineries, horse riding establishments and the famous Six Foot Track.

Holiday history

The historic Hydro Majestic Hotel , which has been drawing tourists since 1904, clings to the rugged escarpment at Medlow Bath, gazing out over bucolic farmland dappled by passing shadows and mountain mists. During the 1920s, adventurers took the same road to go hunting and visit the many tea rooms dotting the valley – today there is just one, Megalong Valley Tearooms, celebrated since 1956 for its Devonshire tea and tranquil ambience.

Six Foot Track

Further along the road, you’ll reach the Six Foot Track, a walking trail from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves that takes three days to complete. The section from the old Megalong cemetery to the Swinging Bridge over the Coxs River is a popular day walk that takes three hours each way.

Overlooking the Six Foot Track are two wineries – Dryridge Estate and Megalong Creek Estate. With arguably the best cellar door views in NSW, these family-friendly wineries are open for tastings on weekends, with the spectacle of the afternoon sun illuminating the towering escarpment an added bonus.

Explore on horseback

Megalong Valley is also a great place to explore on horseback. Saddle up with Megalong Valley Farm; or ride from neighbouring Kanimbla Valley with Centennial Glen Stables to the tearooms in Megalong on an all-day horse trek.

Getting there & where to stay

Megalong Valley is a two-hour drive from Sydney. Cross the railway line at Blackheath and turn onto Shipley Road before winding down Megalong Valley Road, the only road in and out of the valley. You can also leave the car at home and take the Megalong Valley Shuttle from Katoomba, with stop-offs at wineries and the Six Foot Track.

Accommodation options in Megalong Valley include rustic country cottages, eco-lodges and glamping as well as country estates with all the trimmings. You’ll also find vineyard accommodation at Dryridge Estate. For outdoor adventure, camp at Old Fords Reserve or Dunphys Campground.