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KATOOMBA
Introduction
In
1874 there was a spot along the railway line in the Blue Mountains known
as ‘Crushes.’ It was here that stone was quarried to act as ballast
for the trains. In 1877 it became Katoomba.
Katoomba is based on the
aboriginal word ‘Kedumba’ meaning ‘shiny, falling water.’ Once you
have visited the area the name takes on a more mystical meaning.
The
inherent beauty of the region can be seen in the many exotic natural
attractions that abound. Today Katoomba is one of the major tourist sites
in the Blue Mountains.
Sydney residents find the area a great place to get
away for a week end or just a few hours.
It can be easily reached by car
or train and is located about 110 km from Sydney. This mountain town
retains a visage of old elegance and an essence of bye-gone times.
The art
-deco, art-nouveau facades of the cafes and shops portray a rather
whimsical ambience.
Attractions
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The most popular attraction is the
The Scenic Railway
which remains the world’s steepest incline railway with areas as sharp
as forty five degrees. Visitors pass through a tunnel in the mountain
side, through areas of primitive rainforest and breath-taking scenery to
stop at the Jamison Valley floor.
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Another attraction is
Echo Point, the
located at the southern end of Katoomba Street, the main avenue of the
town. This area is host to the famous ‘Three Sisters” rock formation.
An aboriginal dream- time legend has it that the rocks were three sisters
of the Katoomba tribe. These sisters fell in love with men from another
tribe, but, tribal laws made marriage impossible. When their lovers found
this out, the men swore to take the sisters by force. A witch doctor of
the Katoomba tribe felt that the sisters were in danger and he turned them
into rocks to protect them.
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The “Giant Stairway” offers a challenge of
800 steps to the valley floor for the energetic and hale.
Activities
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The area abounds with a wide scope of
outdoor recreation. An adventurer can choose between rock climbing, abseiling,
canyoning, and caving.
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The Australian School of Mountaineering is located
in Katoomba and offers beginning classes in many of these areas. Other
companies that give instruction can be found locally.
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If you aren’t as
adventuresome as others, you can still see the mountains as few others do.
The Edge Maxvision Cinema offers a six stories high screen that allows you
to experience areas in the mountains you couldn’t see on your own.
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“The Edge” is a spectacular peek into the natural vastness of the Blue
Mountains.
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There are many bush walks available in the area, guided tours
are popular. Many offer unusual and stunning views of the Megalong Valley
as well.
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There are many
Lookout’s in the area that provide many diverse
views of this incredible region.
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