Blackheath and surrounds
Blackheath has many cafes and restaurants, a large antique centre and other shops of interest to tourists, and a picturesque golf course. The Rhododendron Gardens, near the town centre, comprise Rhododendrons and Azaleas planted underneath a native Australian bush canopy. The gardens are a spectacular sight in spring, and Blackheath hosts its annual Rhododendron Festival in November.
A short drive from Blackheath Town Centre takes visitors to Govetts Leap, a lookout with spectacular views of the Grose Valley and nearby waterfalls. Evans Lookout provides an alternate vantage point, also into Grose Valley. Pulpit Rock, Perrys Lookdown and Anvil Rock are other lookouts close to the town centre.
There are several walking tracks starting from the lookouts, including short walks to enjoy different views, longer half and whole day walks, and walks involving camping overnight or several days walk. Canyoners, rockclimbers, parasailers/gliders also base themselves at Blackheath for activities in the surrounding national park. The Blue Gum Forest may be accessed from Perrys Lookdown.
Further afield, Mount Victoria is a charming village with a family run arthouse cinema, and the Hydro Majestic at Medlow Bath offers Devonshire Teas and fine cuisine with a stunning view over the Megalong Valley. Historic Hartley, Katoomba and Leura offer a wider variety of scenic adventures.