Grand Circular Tourist Drive

Grand Circular Tourist Drive is a fantastic way to explore the Hawkesbury Highlands and Blue Mountains, winding 260km from Sydney along the Great Western Hwy & Bells Line of Road.

Taking in several of the area's popular towns, attractions and lookouts; including Kurrajong, Bilpin and Mount Tomah; its a unique drive that highlights the region's diverse natural beauty.

From Sydney, take the M4 Motorway out of the city and follow the Great Western Highway up the mountains from Lapstone. The highway and rail line follow the route of the first European explorers who found a way over the mountains in 1813, opening rich plains and mineral fields.

An ideal place to start your Blue Mountains expedition is the Heritage Centre in Blackheath. Here you can pick up a range of maps, souvenirs and brochures, as well as invaluable free advice.

From Blackheath there are a number of possible touring routes you can take, each offering a distinctly different experience. Sandstone cliffs, plunging waterfalls, and historic towns are at your fingertips.

Drive another 15km along the Great Western Highway from Blackheath to the 19th-century village of Hartley, at the base of the Victoria Pass (this is a steep descent). After Mt Victoria the Bells Line of Road loops back to Sydney, passing by Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens and Wollemi National Park on its way to the historic townships of Richmond and Windsor.

Grand Circular Tourist Drive is as varied as your imagination, offering seemingly endless touring possibilities. Allow plenty of time to enjoy the mountains.