Mt Victoria – the gem that oozing with old world charm of NSW

The township of Mount Victoria is a Blue Mountains’s gems, oozing with old world charm — even the railways station is a jewel from a more elegant time.

Now that NSW residents will soon be able to resume holidaying in the state, this incredible spot is keen to welcome visitors back to its enchanting shops, cafes and historic inns.

The westernmost town in the Blue Mountains, Mt Victoria is still just a two-hour drive from the Sydney CBD, or 2.5 hours by train from Central station — but it feels like a world away.

It’s packed with incredible historic buildings, from its beautiful, 150-year-old sandstone railway station to the incredible Gatekeepers Cottage, which dates back to a time when passing horse-drawn coaches had to pay a toll. Unfortunately another major landmark, the old Imperial Hotel, said to be the first tourist hotel in Australia, is currently closed but there are redevelopment plans

The Mount Victoria Historical Museum is a great way to take in the fascinating local history.

There are lots of local drives and walks to explore the natural terrain and take in the amazing views. One of the best, Victoria Falls Lookout, has been reopened since the bushfires.

And there’s heaps to do in town, too. The Blue Mountains’ most iconic cinema, Mount Vic Flicks, screens art house movies along with homemade snacks — including warming bowls of soup in the winter months. The cinema is currently closed due to COVID-19 restrictions but is keen to reopen soon.

For shopping, there great spots like Cobweb Collectables, which is full of interesting treasures, and Mount Vic and Me, an art studio that also sells funky souvenirs.

Hungry? Tucker into some modern Australian dishes using seasonal ingredients at Ambermere Inn, along with a glass of wine or craft beer, when it’s back up and running.

If you’re after sometime sweet, there are great scones with jam and cream at Petalura Eatery. Even the local Caltex service station is famous for its old-style Aussie hamburgers.

There are lots of places to stay locally including the historic Victoria and Albert Guesthouse, which sadly had all its bookings cancelled due to the bushfires.