Living in Sydney comes with a lot of perks, but “traditional seasons” isn’t really one of them. In the city, autumn usually just means the humidity drops slightly while the palm trees stay exactly the same.
If you are craving that classic “fall aesthetic”—the crunch of leaves under your boots, the crisp air and the vibrant reds and oranges—
you have to leave the coast.
Luckily, the Blue Mountains are only 90 minutes away, and right now, they are putting on a show. Here is where to drive to find the best autumn colours before winter sets in.
The Heavy Hitter: Mount Wilson
If you only go to one place, make it Mount Wilson. This tiny heritage garden village is the undisputed capital of autumn in NSW.
Because it is higher in altitude and filled with heritage English gardens (like the famous Breenhold Gardens), the colours here are explosive. The “Cathedral of Trees”—a row of massive plane trees—turns a brilliant gold. It is arguably the most photogenic spot in the state right now.
The Drive: You can’t catch a train here. Mount Wilson is tucked away off the Bells Line of Road. It is a stunning, winding drive through the bush that suddenly opens up into avenues of European trees.
The Village Vibe: Leura
Leura is the perfect lunch stop. The main street (The Mall) is lined with cherry trees and oaks that turn a deep red in May.
Grab a coffee and walk the streets south of the railway line. The heritage homes have manicured gardens that spill over fences with copper and bronze foliage. It feels less like Australia and more like a quiet English village.
The Cool Change: Blackheath
Further up the mountain, Blackheath gets properly cold. The streets here are lined with massive oaks that create tunnels of colour.
Because it’s higher up, the air is sharper, and the “winter mode” vibes are stronger. It’s the perfect spot to finish the day with a hot pie from the bakery before heading back down the hill.
Getting There
The best spots for autumn leaves—especially Mount Wilson—are not accessible by public transport. To chase the season properly, you need your own set of wheels.
Our car hire Sydney fleet is perfect for the mountain run.
Power: You want a car that can handle the climb up the Great Western Highway without struggling.
Comfort: Heated seats and climate control make the drive home cosy after a day in the cool mountain air.
Don’t Miss the Window
Autumn is short. One big wind storm and those beautiful leaves are on the ground.
Don’t wait until June and miss the show. Book your mountain drive now. The trees are ready, and so are the cars.
Wrap up warm!