Megalong Valley

Historic hotels & local icons

Perched on the edge of the Megalong Valley, the tiny outpost of Medlow Bath is most famous for a hotel – but not just any hotel. Opened in 1904, Hydro Majestic Hotel instantly became an icon of the Blue Mountains with its signature white façade and Art Deco domes attracting Sydney's elite. It gazes out over bucolic countryside dappled by passing shadows and mountain mists. After several multi-million-dollar renovations over the past century, it remains one of Australia’s most spectacular heritage hotels.  

The Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath

During the 1920s, adventurers travelled here to go hunting and would refresh themselves at the many tea rooms dotting the valley. Today, only a few survive, like the Megalong Valley Tearooms, celebrated for its Devonshire tea and tranquil ambience. Inside the Hydro Majestic, The Wintergarden is famed for its panoramic views through floor to ceiling windows. Look out over the Jamison Valley while nibbling on petite sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and homemade pastries. If you're so inclined, opt for the Eastern High Tea, which includes dumplings and rice paper rolls.

The Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath

Wining & dining

Another dining highlight in the Valley is Megalong, set on the LOT101 farm and with stunning views of the escarpment and bushland. Nearly all the vegetables, fruit and herbs on the menu are grown organically on-site, in large gardens that visitors can walk through and learn about from staff. 

Megalong, Megalong Valley - Credit: Megalong

This lush valley is also home to two wineries: Dryridge Estate and Megalong Creek Estate. With arguably the best cellar door views in NSW, these family-friendly wineries are open for tastings on weekends, with the spectacle of the afternoon sun illuminating the towering escarpment an added bonus. You can also visit Dryridge in the evening on a tour with Blue Mountains Stargazing – a wine tasting under the stars in the company of an astronomer? Yes please! 

Stargazing Dark Sky, Blue Mountains - Credit: Brendan Neaton

Outdoor adventure

The Six Foot Track is the stuff of legends, with the epic walking trail from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves taking three days to complete. The section from the old Megalong cemetery to the Swinging Bridge over the Coxs River is a popular day walk that takes three hours each way. 

Six Foot Track, Greater Blue Mountains - Credit: Nick Cubbin | DPE

Explore on horseback 

Megalong Valley is also a great place to explore on horseback. Saddle up with Megalong Valley Farm, a private wilderness lodge. Or ride from neighbouring Kanimbla Valley with Centennial Glen Stables to the tearooms in Megalong on an all-day horse trek (there are also shorter rides available). 

Centennial Glen Stables, Blackheath - Credit: Jim Commens | Centennial Glen Stables

Where to stay

A stay at the legendary Hydro Majestic Hotel is a true bucket list experience. Spend a night in one of the Art Deco rooms or suites to step back into the heyday of Blue Mountains travel. Other accommodation options include rustic country cottages, eco-lodges and glamping. You can even sleep among the vines in luxury cabins at Dryridge Estate. For a back-to-nature stay, camp at Old Ford Reserve or Dunphys Campground, and pitch a tent on Megalong Valley Farm through Hipcamp.

The Hydro Majestic Hotel, Medlow Bath

Getting there

The Megalong Valley and the village of Medlow Bath is a two-hour drive from Sydney. Cross the railway line at Blackheath and turn onto Shipley Road before winding down Megalong Valley Road, the only road in and out of the valley. You can also catch the train direct to Medlow Bath station from Sydney, which takes just over two hours.