Wildflowers, saunas and antiques: a local’s guide to the Blue Mountains

Incredible views and secluded swimming holes are just the beginning, says local artist Nastia Gladushchenko. The world heritage-listed area has award-winning beer, steamy bathhouses and a thriving arts community tooRead more local’s guides to AustraliaMy partner and I are both creatives. Six years ago we were living in a tiny apartment in Sydney’s inner west, and I was paying extra for a studio. It wasn’t sustainable so we decided to move to Katoomba, on the traditional lands of the Dharug and Gundungurra people.I read an article recently saying something like “skip it, it’s not at its best” but Katoomba has a beautiful authenticity, even if it’s not quite polished. Continue reading...

Jun 21, 2025 - 08:40

Wildflowers, saunas and antiques: a local’s guide to the Blue Mountains

Incredible views and secluded swimming holes are just the beginning, says local artist Nastia Gladushchenko. The world heritage-listed area has award-winning beer, steamy bathhouses and a thriving arts community too

Read more local’s guides to Australia

My partner and I are both creatives. Six years ago we were living in a tiny apartment in Sydney’s inner west, and I was paying extra for a studio. It wasn’t sustainable so we decided to move to Katoomba, on the traditional lands of the Dharug and Gundungurra people.

I read an article recently saying something like “skip it, it’s not at its best” but Katoomba has a beautiful authenticity, even if it’s not quite polished. Continue reading...