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 of all (thanks to his paintings of voluptuous women) 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. The gardens are also a spectacular work of art on their own, with fountains, a bush pool and a riot of colourful flowers in spring.

Norman Lindsay Gallery, Faulconbridge - Credit: Norman Lindsay Gallery

Things to do

Explore railway memorabilia at the 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. The area is rich in Indigenous heritage, with protected Aboriginal cave art on display on the Red Hands Cave Walking Track near Glenbrook. Join an Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout tour to learn about these ancient traditions as you follow a Songline on a 3.5-kilometre walk through secluded bushland.

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

Popular bushwalks near Faulconbridge 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 also pet friendly. Then there’s the 10-kilometre 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 lookouts in the Blue Mountains region, overlooking the Grose River and across the valley to Bilpin and Mount Tomah. The six-kilometre fire trail that runs out to the Point is considered one of the best mountain bike trails in the Blue Mountains.  

Faulconbridge Point trail, Blue Mountains National Park - Credit: Stephen Alton | DCCEEW

Wining & dining

While Faulconbridge itself has limited restaurants, you can enjoy authentic Italian at La Bello Pizzeria. Lindsay’s Café at the Norman Lindsay Gallery is open for lunch with a lovely courtyard setting. 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. You can also enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere of Springwood Country Club after a round of golf and there’s a great playground for kids.

While Springwood may be small, it’s home to one of the best restaurants in the Blue Mountains. Arrana has been awarded two prestigious chef’s hats each year since it opened in 2020 and is the place to savour a degustation-style menu that heroes native Australian ingredients.   

Arrana, Springwood - Credit: Food Frenzy

Where to stay

While there are no hotels or 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. There are also budget-friendly motels and classic pub rooms available.

Rose Lindsay Cottage, Faulconbridge