Just a stone’s throw from the Blue Mountain is Leura Cascades, a haven where you can connect with nature. It has waterfalls, greenery and walking tracks so it’s become a hot spot for locals and visitors. This article will take you through the features of Leura Cascades, its history and the fun things to do in this lovely place.
Leura Cascades
On any Blue Mountains tour, Leura Cascades is one of the popular spots and a gem to visit. The lovely waterfall, situated in the highlands National Park of the Blue Mountains, is a series of small reverse waterfalls on rocky ledges, making the landscape peaceful and beautiful. A trickle of clear water flows over deodorised stones surrounded by shrub-style surroundings like Leura cascades fen Bower, which is very enticing. The breathtaking view of the cascades is lovely after heavy rain when the water flows over the top, adding a new kind of beauty to this scenic spot.
With many recreational activities, the Blue Mountains has these activities plus amazing rock formations and beautiful forests. A beautiful waterfall is not the only thing to see- from here you can also see Gordon Falls, Wentworth Falls, Katoomba Falls. The ferns are blooming and tiny water trickling create a lovely scene. Other features of the area include the Majestic lookout and other lookouts at Echo Point.
History of Leura
It’s clear Leura has a rich history and that’s what makes it even more fun to explore. The Gundungurra and Darug people were the first to inhabit Leura and it was known for its resources and scenic views. European settlers arrived in the 19th century and since then Leura has become a popular place to escape from Sydney.
The introduction of the railway in the late 19th century further developed the town of Leura, which became a tourist hub. As access became easier, more tourists came to the area, attracted by the magnificent views and the chance to see the Blue Mountains. Even now, Leura is a popular destination for people who want to get away from city life, with many people making a day trip to the place.
How Did Leura Get Its Name?
The name “Leura” comes from the Native Australian word which means ‘deep water’, ‘pool’ or ‘to see a bathtub’. This name is apt for the area as it is surrounded by water- Leura Falls and the deep pool of water at the base of the waterfall. A perfect description for an area that greets you with brilliant views against a backdrop of stillness.
How to get to Leura Cascades
Leura Cascades can be accessed via Cliff Drive which is a beautiful drive along the Blue Mountains and Jamison Valley. The drive from Sydney is only 2 hours so it’s a great day trip. Public transport is also good in this area with trains from Sydney to Katoomba and then a short drive or bus ride to the cascades.
Once you’re at Leura Cascades, you can park at the Leura Cascades Picnic Area, which is within the park. This area has good walking access to the walking tracks and picnic tables, so it’s a great spot to have a lovely picnic while surrounded by the beautiful forest.
Surrounded By Beautiful Walks
Sheer Cliffs With Cascading Waterfalls Walking paths around Leura cascades These walking paths have a variety of sceneries to suit different natures and general walking interests. The area has several trails which show the beautiful topography and lead to popular lookouts and stunning waterfalls.
Leura Cascades Walking Circuit
The Leura Cascades Walking Circuit is one of the best walks that goes around many beautiful forests and falls including Sylvia Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and many others. This circuit walk is not hard and is suitable for most people and gives everyone plenty of opportunities to see the best of the area with its unusual boulders. Ferns and other plantations in attractive spots are where people choose this walk.
Prince Henry Cliff Walk
If you want more jaw-dropping views of the distance the Prince Henry Cliff Walk is that and more. This is a cliff-top walk and has beautiful views of the Blue Mountains, including the Jamison Valley and the blue ridges in the distance. The walk has lookouts at various points of interest, including the Gordon Falls lookout and the Tarpeian Lookout.
Majestic Lookout
The Majestic Lookout is one place to try, as it has great views of the Blue Mountain region and its sheer cliffs. This one has two-way views from any hill or high point and over to the waterfalls, including Horseshoe, BN and Victoria Falls.
Things to Do
Leura Cascades and surrounding area has something for everyone. Whether you want to walk to the falls or eat at a nearby cafe.
Leura Cascades Picnic Area
Although there are other facilities to make it nice, the Leura Cascades Picnic Area is really just for eating outside as there are toilets here and a few picnic tables with views of the cascades. Having lunch here or just taking a break from a long day of walking is very refreshing in the Blue Mountains. The picnic area is right off the main entrance of some of the walking tracks.
Leuralla Toy & Railway Museum
If you’re looking for something different, there is the Leuralla Toy & Railway Museum just off Leura Cascades you might like to visit. This museum has all sorts of toys and model trains and shows how children played and travelled over the years.
Leura Candy Store
The Leura Candy Store is another local favourite that tourists also enjoy, where they are treated to many types of lollies. A nice stop for those who love sweet things and a great way to taste the region.
Other attractions
There are many places and natural wonders in the Blue Mountains. So a trip to Leura Cascades can be added to other local attractions.
Scenic World
Scenic World has the Scenic Railway and Scenic Skyway, both with great views of the Blue Mountains and Three Sisters. It’s a nice addition to any of the many Blue Mountains tours.
Leura Park is another nice part of the landscape worth visiting. This has gardens and fields and the like. Adjacent Leura forest is peaceful and is covered in green with some walking tracks so it’s a nice spot for a lazy afternoon.
Blue Mountains National Park
The blue mountains national park has a lot of wilderness and includes places like Govetts Leap Falls and Beauchamp Falls and the Federal Pass. There are many trails to use and lookouts to visit so it’s very popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
Table: Overview of Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Description | Distance from Leura Cascades |
|---|---|---|
| Gordon Falls | Scenic waterfall with views of the valley and surrounding cliffs. | 5 km |
| Wentworth Falls | Majestic waterfall and popular hiking destination with spectacular views. | 10 km |
| Scenic World | Adventure park featuring a scenic railway, cableway, and skyway. | 8 km |
| Katoomba Falls | Iconic waterfalls with a nearby lookout offering panoramic views. | 8 km |
| Leura Park | It is a charming park with well-maintained gardens and picnic areas. | 2 km |
| Majestic Lookout | Provides sweeping views of the Blue Mountains and surrounding valleys. | 6 km |
| Leuralla Toy & Railway Museum | Museum showcasing vintage toys and model trains. | 3 km |
| Leura Candy Store | The specialty store offers a variety of sweets and confectionery. | 3 km |
Conclusion
In short Leura Cascades is a nature lovers paradise. Whether it’s walking on beautiful walking trails, enjoying the green gardens or many more; Leura Cascades has it all in the Blue Mountains. With waterfalls, views and history it’s an area every tourist should stop by as they pass through this area.
FAQ
When to go to Leura Cascades?
It’s best to visit Leura Cascades after heavy rain as the waterfalls will be at their best. Spring and autumn are the best seasons as the weather is good but not too many people.
How long does it take to do the Leura Cascades Walking Circuit?
The Leura Cascades walking circuit takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and time spent sightseeing.
Are there other things in Leura Cascades?
Leura Cascades Picnic Area has picnic tables, parking, and toilets for customers’ use.
Can I see other waterfalls apart from Leura Cascades?
Yes, there are several other waterfalls you can access from Gullery, Wentworth, as well as Bridal Veil Falls and more in the nearby trails and scenic walks in Blue Mountains National Park
Are the trails around Leura Cascades suitable for children?
The trails around Leura Cascades Kopjes are considered safe, but always carry a personal locator beacon and be aware of weather changes. Stick to the path and watch out for cliff faces, boulders and rock formations.
