Old world chic perched on the edge of the National Park, Lilianfels combines traditional accommodation with a relaxed atmosphere that spells 'leave your worries at the door'. Lilianfels started as the Victorian home of then Chief Justice of New South Wales, Sir Frederick Darley, and continues its grand country house tradition today as a Luxury Collection Resort. It's all picnics on clifftops and high tea at three for cashed up weekenders escaping urban Sydney, and international guests doing their Australian 'tour'.
Enter via a gravelled driveway past the swanky pool begging for a cocktail. There's a Great Gatsby feel to the open plan salon with grand piano, fireplaces, French doors, terrace and Victorian couches to lose yourself in. A distinctly retro indoor swimming pool with traditional wide striped towels and glass conservatory, plus a full-sized billiard table and a tennis court, complete the historical picture. But don't overlook the award-winning cuisine at Darley’s restaurant, nor the seriously seductive spa tucked away in the basement of pampering.
Highs
- Vast bathrooms with deep vanity sinks in every gracious bedroom
- Service, service, service - friendly, impeccable and discreet
- Two acres of landscaped gardens
- Proximity to the Three Sisters rock formations and a plethora of bush walking tracks
- Darley’s restaurant has won a "chef's hat" - Sydney's equivalent of a Michelin star - 2 years running
- The four handed poultice massage treatment in the spa
- Spa and gourmet packages from one to seven nights
Lows
- Lavish is never cheap
- You will need to make dinner and spa reservations well in advance
- The very old-fashioned country house décor is not for everybody
- The road that divides the national park from the resort prevents it from being absolute clifftop, you have to walk to the public viewpoint to see the view
- Daytrippers break the spell when showing up for high tea and a look-see
- It's larger and better known than most of the hidden gems selected by i-escape, but it's quite simply the best hotel in the Blue Mountains, and you can't argue with that
Best time to go
The Blue Mountains are cooler and wetter than Sydney - typically 5-10 celsius in winter (June-August) and around 20 celsius in summer (December-February). Winter is actually the most popular time, for cosy fireside escapes with the (small) chance of snow - there might be 4 or 5 snowfalls per year, and predominantly on the mountaintops around 1000 metres. In summer it is a welcome relief from Sydney's sticky heat, and poolside loungers are in high demand. Spring and autumn can have wonderful clear days which suit outdoor pursuits; September is excellent for wild flowers.
Our top tips
Pack sunscreen and insect repellent, and walking shoes are a must. It’s sacrilege not to take the walk down to the valley floor - but be warned the walk back up is a killer.
Location
Lilianfels is in Katoomba, in the Blue Mountains, 1.5 hours' drive to the west of Sydney. The Blue Mountains are an ancient escarpment weathered into valleys, which now boast lovely waterfalls and great walks.
By Air:
Sydney (80km). Click on the links below for a list of airlines.
From the Airport
Lilianfels offers an airport transfer which takes 1.5 hours. See Rates for details.
By Car:
It's worth hiring a car so you can tour around the spectacular Blue Mountains' region. See our car rental recommendations.
By Train:
Trains depart hourly from Sydney's Central Station and the journey to Katoomba Rail Station takes 2 hours. Lilianfels offer a complimentary transfer service from the railway.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Australia and getting around
Airports:
- Sydney Kingsford Smith 80.0 km SYD
Other:
- Beach 120.0 km
- Shops 1.0 km
- Restaurant 1.0 km