Bells Line of Road

Bells Line of Road is a scenic mountain route through the Blue Mountains, offering a quieter alternative to the Great Western Highway. This historic road winds through lush eucalypt forests, past sandstone cliffs and charming villages, with fewer crowds and a more intimate feel. It's a favorite among travelers seeking a peaceful drive with superb lookout points and access to the region's best gardens and walking trails.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Tomah Botanic Garden – Australia's highest botanic garden, with stunning cool-climate plantings and panoramic views over the Grose Valley.
• Bilpin – A tiny apple-growing village famous for its orchards, cideries, and roadside fruit stalls. Pick your own apples in season.
• Zig Zag Railway – A heritage steam train that runs through dramatic sandstone cuttings and across viaducts. A nostalgic ride through history.
• Mount Wilson – A historic village with grand European-style gardens, especially spectacular in autumn when the exotic trees turn fiery red and gold.
• Blue Mountains Botanic Garden – Part of the Royal Botanic Gardens network, this site features themed gardens, walking trails, and picnic spots with valley views.
• Lookout Points – Pulpit Rock and Govetts Leap Lookout offer jaw-dropping views over the Grose Valley and the iconic Three Sisters.

Suggested Time to Spend

Bells Line of Road can be driven in half a day, but to truly appreciate its attractions, allocate a full day. Spend the morning at Mount Tomah Botanic Garden and Bilpin, then enjoy lunch at a local orchard café. In the afternoon, explore Mount Wilson's gardens and catch a ride on the Zig Zag Railway. If you're a keen walker, add an extra day to tackle the Blue Mountains' shorter trails.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Katoomba – The Blue Mountains' main hub, home to the Three Sisters, Echo Point, and extensive bushwalking trails.
• Leura – A picturesque village with boutique shops, art galleries, and lovely gardens, just a short drive from Katoomba.
• Blackheath – A quieter town with excellent lookouts and access to the Grand Canyon walk.
• Richmond – A historic Hawkesbury River town with colonial architecture and a vibrant weekend market.
• Windsor – Another historic river town, known for its sandstone buildings and the Hawkesbury Regional Museum.

Please check official sources for current details.