Tuesday, September 08, 2009

A Trip To The Blue Mountains

Had an exciting outdoor adventure at Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney. It is a two hour train ride through the various neighbourhoods of Sydney. I must say the public transit system is unbelievable, very complex yet simple to use and get around either by bus, train or ferry...brilliant!

The train left Central Station and eventually began the climb into the Blue Mountains. Once in Katoomba, took a London Double-Deck bus for a Hop On Hop Off tour around Katoomba and Leura, with 27 stops of interest. Got off at Honeymoon Lookout and hiked along cliffs with a great vista to take in. In the valley floor is a forest of various types of trees including eucalyptus, which gives off a "blue" look, due to the oil that is emitted from the leaves of the eucalyptus trees.

What blew me away was hearing lots of screeching and looking down into the valley to see dozens and dozens of white cockatoos flying together and making a ton of screeching noises. Along the walk many beautifully coloured parrots flew around, landing in the branches of nearby trees.

The piece de resistance is the destination of the hike, the lookout at Echo Point. Here you can take in the amazing panorama of the plateau that was eroded by the sea ninety million years ago, resulting in the valley below. There is a 3000 metre outcropping of three sandstone towers called the Three Sisters. Truly this is an amazing natural wonder. Check out the photo below.

One last day Wednesday, then back home to Vancouver. See you Sunday for the next live show.

Bye for now.
Michael