From breathtaking country escapes to world-class walks and restorative wellness, the Blue Mountains has plenty to celebrate in Australian Traveller’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.
There are few places that capture the spirit of an Australian escape quite like the Blue Mountains. With its dramatic sandstone escarpments, deep green valleys, charming mountain villages and an abundance of experiences to nourish both body and soul, it's little wonder the region continues to capture the hearts of travellers.
And now, there's another reason to celebrate.
The Blue Mountains has been named Australia's Best Country Escape in Australian Traveller's 2026 Readers' Choice Awards, voted by more than 12,000 Australian travellers. The region also earned a place among the runners-up in two further categories: Best Walk or Hike and Best Wellness Destination.
It's a wonderful recognition of the diversity of experiences waiting to be discovered across the mountains – whether you're seeking an adventurous weekend immersed in nature, a little indulgence and relaxation, or simply somewhere to slow down and breathe.
Best Country Escape – Winner: Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains is the quintessential country escape, where spectacular natural beauty meets warm hospitality, wonderful food and a collection of distinctive villages, each with its own character.
Just beyond Sydney, the landscape opens into a world of extraordinary views. From the iconic Three Sisters at Echo Point to the expansive wilderness of the Grose Valley, the dramatic escarpments and ever-changing blue horizons provide a spectacular backdrop to a mountain getaway.
Adventure is never far away, with hundreds of kilometres of walking tracks winding through ancient rainforest, sandstone canyons, past cascading waterfalls and to breathtaking lookouts. For those who prefer a slower pace, there are beautiful gardens to explore, village streets to wander and plenty of opportunities to simply sit back and soak up the scenery.
The region's hospitality is every bit as memorable. From boutique guesthouses and luxurious retreats to welcoming country pubs, intimate restaurants, cosy cafés and cellar doors, the Blue Mountains offers a wonderful sense of place. Local produce, creative dining and unique accommodation make staying a little longer all the more appealing.
Whether it's a romantic weekend away, a family adventure or a restorative escape from city life, the Blue Mountains has all the ingredients for an unforgettable country getaway.
Best Walk or Hike – Shortlisted: Blue Mountains Grand Canyon Track and Grand Cliff Top Walk
It's no secret that the Blue Mountains is a paradise for walkers. With its World Heritage-listed landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity and network of spectacular trails, there's a walking experience for every kind of adventurer.
This year's Best Walk or Hike shortlist included two very special Blue Mountains experiences: the historic Grand Canyon Track and the spectacular Grand Cliff Top Walk.
Grand Canyon Track – a journey into another world
One of the region's most beloved bushwalks, the Grand Canyon Track near Blackheath is a wonderfully immersive journey into the heart of the mountains.
Descending from the open eucalypt forest, the track winds into a cool, lush canyon filled with towering sandstone walls, moss-covered rock formations, fern-filled gullies and cascading waterfalls. Follow the bubbling waters of Greaves Creek, cross little stepping stones and discover hidden overhangs and rock tunnels along the way.
There's a wonderful sense of discovery here. Look closely into the clear creek waters for little freshwater creatures, including the occasional yabby, and take a moment to appreciate the remarkable life thriving within this ancient landscape.
A 6.3-kilometre circuit, the Grand Canyon Track offers an unforgettable few hours immersed in nature, finishing with expansive views from Evans Lookout.
Grand Cliff Top Walk – spectacular views at every turn
For those wanting to experience the mountains on a grander scale, the 19-kilometre Grand Cliff Top Walk is a remarkable two-day adventure connecting Wentworth Falls, Leura and Katoomba.
This spectacular trail follows the sandstone escarpment, revealing sweeping views across the Jamison Valley, dramatic cliff faces, waterfalls and some of the region's most iconic landmarks.
Take in the magnificent Wentworth Falls, wander through pockets of rainforest, discover historic sandstone tracks and pause at lookouts where the vastness of the World Heritage landscape unfolds before you.
The Three Sisters, Mount Solitary and the endless blue horizons provide a constant reminder of just how extraordinary this part of the world is.
And perhaps the greatest joy of walking in the Blue Mountains is that it's never just about reaching the destination. It's the birdsong, the fresh mountain air, the unexpected wildlife encounters, the sunlight filtering through the trees and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature.
These are the moments that make a walk memorable.
Best Wellness Destination – Shortlisted: Blue Mountains
Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply slow down. And the Blue Mountains has a special way of encouraging just that.
With its crisp mountain air, peaceful bushland, restorative natural surrounds and unhurried village atmosphere, the region is a natural destination for wellbeing. Add an impressive collection of day spas, bathhouses and wellness experiences, and it's easy to see why the Blue Mountains earned a place among Australia's leading wellness destinations.
Whether it's a luxurious spa ritual, a therapeutic massage, a restorative facial or a little time spent soaking away the stresses of everyday life, there are wonderful ways to reconnect and recharge.
A few local wellness experiences to discover:
Èliva Blue Mountains – Ardour Lilianfels, Katoomba
A contemporary luxury day spa experience nestled within the beautiful surrounds of Lilianfels. Èliva brings together mindful rituals, therapeutic treatments and advanced wellness experiences, with massages, facials, sauna and steam rooms, a mineral pool and a dedicated recovery lounge. A beautiful place to retreat, restore and return to balance.
Ubika Day Spa – Fairmont Resort, Leura
A destination in its own right, Ubika offers an extensive menu of spa treatments and holistic therapies. With 16 treatment rooms, couples' suites, float therapy, a halotherapy salt room and luxurious iKOU spa rituals, it's an inviting sanctuary for a little indulgence and deep relaxation.
Spa Sublime – Katoomba
Set within the beautiful surrounds of the mountains, Spa Sublime offers a nurturing spa experience with massage, signature facials, skin treatments and restorative spa rituals. With dedicated couples' treatment spaces, it's a lovely option for sharing a little time out with someone special.
Sensalium – Blackheath
For a more intimate and personalised wellness experience, Sensalium offers considered facial and body rituals in a private, tranquil setting. Specialising in restorative facial treatments, therapeutic massage and techniques designed to release tension and support relaxation, it's a beautiful opportunity to slow down and reconnect.
Beyond the treatment rooms, wellness in the Blue Mountains is woven into everyday experiences. It's found in a morning walk through the forest, a leisurely breakfast overlooking the valley, a quiet afternoon in a garden, or watching the mist roll across the mountains with nowhere else you need to be.
There is something wonderfully restorative about the rarified mountain air and the relaxed pace of life here. Sometimes wellbeing is less about doing more and more about giving yourself permission to do less.
Discover more at https://www.visitbluemountains.com.au/play/health-wellbeing
A mountain of reasons to visit
Being recognised across three categories in the 2026 Australian Traveller Readers' Choice Awards is a wonderful celebration of everything that makes the Blue Mountains special.
From its winning credentials as Australia's Best Country Escape to its spectacular walks and growing reputation as a wellness destination, the region offers an extraordinary combination of nature, adventure, hospitality and relaxation.
Whether you come for the views, the trails, the food, the spa experiences or simply the chance to breathe a little deeper, the Blue Mountains is a place that invites you to stay, explore and experience more.
Perhaps it's time to plan your next mountain escape.