Blaue Berge

20.05.19

The early bird catches the worm. So we started on Monday morning to the Blue Mountains, first stop Wentworth Falls.

With a beautiful view of the blue shimmering hills (the blue shimmer comes from the eucalyptus essential oils which evaporate and lie as a fine mist over the mountains), of the National Park we covered the first 15 minutes of our little hike to the waterfall. After this short distance, we discovered a small side waterfall which we initially had all to ourselves and which was definitely worth a rest!

While the first part of the trail was still relaxed and easy downhill, this joy soon came to an end. After crossing the waterfall at a shallow point further upstream, the stairs began. Carved directly into the rock, with a gigantic view but unfortunately built over 100 years ago. A team of 4 men allegedly set out to build the most spectacular hiking trail in all of Australia and was willing to take some risks. It took a full 2 years to build the stairs, with several very risky measures such as the team leader abseiling in a wooden armchair to determine the best course for the planned stairs...

Built 100 years ago, the steps unfortunately also feel that way, huge gaps make a comfortable descent impossible, not to mention the ascent.

Nevertheless, we bravely descended, following my motto 'don't think about going up while going down, otherwise you won't enjoy either'. 😉

Once we reached the bottom, we were greeted by a beautiful shallow lagoon with a gentle stream that would have served as a shower in warmer weather, but unfortunately was too cold on Monday.

We hiked back up at a very fast pace despite the steepness because my ego, to Timo's chagrin, didn't allow for a break. We had actually overtaken a typical 'we're Instagram famous and so athletic' couple at the waterfall and didn't want to let them catch up again!

After completing the first hike, we went to the famous rock formation 'Three sisters', although to be honest I had hoped for more. With a giant center and a viewing platform around it, it was very touristy compared to our nice little hike where we hardly encountered anyone.

Nevertheless, you definitely want to see it!

Now we quickly went shopping and then to the free camping spot before it got dark. At the camping spot, to everyone's great joy, we met up with old vacation acquaintances. Freddy and Nina, who are currently tearing down the east coast, wanted to visit the Blue Mountains the next day! So luckily we were able to see each other, even if it wasn't planned like in Sydney.

We had a lot to catch up on and spent a very relaxed evening with pasta, pesto, and lots of laughter.

See u soon, XO