Give your health a kick start on one of these accessible bushwalks in the Blue Mountains. By Julie MillerIn the 1920s, a Russian biochemist discovered that trees emit phytoncides, airborne anti-microbial substances that not only help the plant fight off disease, but also have a beneficial effect on human immune systems. In the 1980s, the Japanese adapted these findings into a practice called shinrin-yoku, or ‘forest bathing’, a preventative health practice that improves wellbeing and reduces stress by immersing your senses in nature.

“Rising mists everywhere, giving place to glorious sunlight, with peeps of blue sky above…: an atmosphere light, cold, and exhilarating in the extreme; such is the scene that greets us as we fling up our window at The Carrington, one of the most comfortable and convenient hotels in all Australia.” (Sydney Mail & NSW Advertiser February 1891)As true today as it was in 1891, the Carrington has proudly promoted itself as centrally located in the healthiest location in NSW. The benefits of the invigorating mountain air have been praised by writers, journalists and visitors ever since the hotel opened in 1883.

At Archer & Hobb, high tea is elevated to a fine dining experience. By Julie Miller.  The ritual of High Tea is a time-honoured tradition in the Blue Mountains, with the indulgent brunch activity as much a part of our landscape as dramatic cliffs and misty valleys. 

Built as a health retreat in 1901, Kurrara Historic Guest house is once again a place to find inner peace and wellbeing.In the late 1890s, the Blue Mountains became a popular destination for those wishing to escape the industrialised smoke and noise of Sydney.