BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN MOUNT TOMAH

Australia’s highest botanic garden, perched on the edge of the Blue Mountains, featuring cool-climate collections and breathtaking mountain vistas.

OVERVIEW

Perched 1,000 metres above sea level on the edge of the World Heritage–listed Greater Blue Mountains, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah offers sweeping vistas and an extraordinary plant collection. This 252-hectare cool-climate garden specialises in plants from around the world that thrive in a high-altitude setting, alongside an outstanding display of native flora. With its crisp mountain air, seasonal colour, and dramatic views across the valleys, it’s one of Australia’s most breathtaking garden experiences.

QUICK FACTS

Opening Hours

Daily, 9 am – 5 pm (closed Christmas Day)

Entry Fee

Free

Location

Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah NSW (approx. 2 hours from Sydney CBD)

Best Time to Visit

Spring for vibrant rhododendrons and waratahs, autumn for brilliant foliage, summer for cool mountain air, winter for camellias and clear valley views.

Suggested Visit Duration

2–4 hours (longer if walking the trails or joining a tour)

Photo credit: CH Photography/Unsplash

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Formal Garden with sweeping lawns framed by exotic and native plantings

  • Rhododendron and Magnolia collections, spectacular in spring

  • The Gondwana Walk, telling the story of ancient plant life

  • The Heath and Heather Garden, ablaze with seasonal colour

  • Scenic lookouts with panoramic views across the Blue Mountains valleys

  • Cool-climate glasshouse showcasing rare and unusual species

VISITOR INFORMATION

FACILITIES

☕ Café

🚻 Toilets

Free Parking

Visitor Centre and Garden Shop

Picnic areas and shelters

ACCESSIBILITY

Main garden paths near the Visitor Centre are paved and pram-friendly. Some trails are steep or uneven due to the mountain terrain, but accessible toilets and designated parking are available.

GETTING HERE

Public Transport: Limited. Catch a train to Richmond Station, then connect by local bus or taxi (approx. 45 minutes).

Driving: Located on the Bells Line of Road, about 2 hours from Sydney CBD. Free onsite parking is available.

IS IT SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN?

Yes! Families will love the wide-open lawns, dedicated Children’s Garden, and discovery trails that encourage exploration. Pram-friendly areas make it easy for families with younger children, and kids enjoy spotting seasonal blooms and local birdlife.

lathe art on green ceramic saucer

FOOD AND DRINK

The onsite Potager Café serves seasonal meals, coffee, and treats with stunning views across the mountains. Picnic areas are scattered throughout the grounds for those who wish to bring their own food.

Nearby, the villages of Bilpin and Mount Wilson are home to country cafés, bakeries, and orchards, perfect for a pre or post-garden stop.

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

  • Seasonal guided walks and talks by horticultural experts

  • Wildflower weekends and seasonal plant festivals

  • School holiday programs for kids

  • Art exhibitions and photography workshops

  • Venue hire for weddings and private events

orange petaled flowers

INSIDER TIP

Arrive in the morning when the air is crisp and the light is soft across the valleys - it’s the perfect time for photography and peaceful exploration.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

MT WILSON GARDENS

Several privately owned heritage gardens, especially stunning in autumn (15 min drive)

BILPIN APPLE ORCHARDS

Pick-your-own fruit and taste local baking and cider (20 min drive)

One of the Blue Mountains’ most iconic viewpoints (40 min drive)

GOVETT'S LEAP LOOKOUT

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Website: Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah

Contact: +61 2 4567 3000

Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah – Garden with a View