Faulconbridge

Famous locals: Norman Lindsay 

The Blue Mountains has always been a magnet for creative types, inspired by the evocative landscapes and invigorated by the cool, fresh air. Arguably the most controversial (thanks to his paintings of voluptuous women) of all was celebrated artist Norman Lindsay, who established a home and studio at Faulconbridge in 1912. 

Today, the magnificent Norman Lindsay Gallery is managed by the National Trust, its gorgeous grounds and sandstone house brimming with Lindsay’s bohemian paintings, etchings and sculptures as well as excerpts and sketches from his children’s classic, The Magic Pudding. 

Norman Lindsay Gallery, Faulconbridge - Credit: Norman Lindsay Gallery

Things to do 

Explore railway memorabilia at Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum, set on the site of a 1914 railway roundhouse. There’s a fascinating collection of artefacts that avid train spotters will love.   

Some of the region’s lesser-known bushwalks include the hike to Blue Gum Swamp at Winmalee, a relatively flat trail that meanders through incredible eucalypt forest. The family-friendly trails of Birdwood Gully are also a hit, and as an added bonus, they are pet friendly. Then there’s the 10km Sassafras Gully Loop at Springwood – it’s a challenging trail but you’re rewarded with dense bushland, dramatic rock formations and waterfalls. 

One of Faulconbridge's hidden treasures is Faulconbridge Point, offering one of the most stunning secluded lookouts in the Blue Mountains region, overlooking the Grose River and across the valley to Bilpin and Mount Tomah. The 6km fire trail out to the Point is one of the best mountain bike trails in the Blue Mountains.  

The area is also rich in cultural heritage, with protected Aboriginal cave art on display on the Red Hands Cave Walking Track near Glenbrook. Learn about Indigenous culture on an Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout, following a Songline of ancient sites on a secluded bushwalk that sets off from Faulconbridge Station. It’s an 8km loop walk, following tracks that Aboriginal communities have used for years. 

Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout, Faulconbridge - Credit: Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout

Wining & dining 

While Faulconbridge itself has limited restaurants, the village of Springwood (a five-minute drive away) is full of great places to eat. Enjoy a hearty brunch at Finn and Co, where the all-day menu includes everything from fish tacos to loaded burgers. Or save your outing for happy hour, when The Bunker offers cocktail and snack specials. You can also enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere of Springwood Country Club after a round of golf (there’s a great playground for kids). While Lindsay’s Café at the Norman Lindsay Gallery in Faulconbridge is open for lunch in a lovely courtyard setting.   

Springwood may be small, but it’s home to one of the best restaurants in the Blue Mountains. Drop in on Arrana to savour a degustation-style menu that heroes native Australian ingredients.   

Arrana, Springwood - Credit: Time Out

Where to stay 

While there are no large resorts in the Faulconbridge area, there are several secluded self-contained cottages available for rent, including the romantic, sandstone Rose Lindsay Cottage which was part of the original Norman Lindsay estate. There is also a cottage on the Norman Lindsay Gallery grounds suitable for couples. 

Rose Lindsay Cottage, Faulconbridge

Getting there  

Faulconbridge is just over an hour’s drive from Sydney and a five-minute drive west of Springwood. Faulconbridge Station is on the Blue Mountains line, a relaxing 90-minute train ride from Central.