How long is it since you’ve felt a real sense of wonder about something? Maybe it’s time you rediscovered just how awesome NSW’s waterfalls really are.
Jan 2024 -
3
min readPerhaps it’s the calming backdrop. Maybe it’s the mesmerising sound. It's definitely the serenity that comes from simply watching that never-ending flow of water, whether gentle or thunderous. Whatever the reason, we reckon waterfalls are the perfect antidote for those missing a sense of the majestic in their lives. Luckily, NSW has fabulous waterfalls to spare. Here are seven of the best, lose-yourself-in-the-moment cascades to bring back a little wonder.
Belmore Falls, Kangaroo Valley
In the beautiful Southern Highlands, Belmore Falls is a picturesque, long-drop waterfall that’s relatively easy to access on foot. It's located in Morton National Park, and you can park your car at the Hindmarsh lookout point off Belmore Falls Road then take the 2km return walk on a well-maintained Grade 3 track.
While the falls are breathtaking in their own right, they are also close to other spectacular drops (we’re looking at you, Fitzroy Falls; see below) and are enveloped by forest of supreme natural beauty.
Is there parking? Yes, at Hindmarsh lookout point (free)
How long is the walk? About 2km return (roughly 45min)
Can you swim here? No
Belmore Falls, Morton National Park - Credit: Above Down Under by Kramer Photography
Ebor Falls, Waterfall Way
You know you’re in for something awe-inspiring when you're travelling along a road called the Waterfall Way. And that’s exactly what Ebor Falls delivers: multi-tiered majesty and sensational, sprawling scenery. While the big-picture view is breathtaking, you can also get close to both the upper falls and lower falls via multiple viewing platforms. Our recommendation? Find a perch, take it all in and get well-and-truly lost in the moment.
Located about 80km from either end of the route (Armidale to the west and Bellingen to the east), Ebor Falls sits in Guy Fawkes River National Park. West of Ebor, towards Armidale, is the powerful Wollomombi Falls, the highest waterfall in NSW at 220m.
Is there parking? Yes, at Ebor Falls Visitors' Car Park and Lower Ebor Falls car park (free)
How long is the walk? About 700m
Can you swim here? No
Ebor Falls, Guy Fawkes River National Park - Credit: Don Fuchs/Destination NSW
Fitzroy Falls, Kangaroo Valley
Also in Morton National Park – not too far from Belmore Falls – sits Fitzroy Falls: why not pair the two for an awe-inspiring double feature? The easy level paths around this stunning drop are suitable for a range of walkers. While not paved, they are well maintained. Look for native animals and buzzing birdlife on your walk through the serene forest.
Is there parking? Yes, at Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre (paid)
How long is the walk? A few hundred metres
Can you swim here? No
Fitzroy Falls, Morton National Park - Credit: Kramer Photography/www.kramer.photography
Minyon Falls, Nightcap National Park
These epic, 100m-high falls sit within the Nightcap National Park, about a 75min-drive west of Byron Bay in northern NSW. There are several ways to take in this sublime drop, including multiple lookout points and walking trails. These take you through lush rainforest and flowing creeks – find a rock and take in the sounds of silence.
What makes Minyon particularly wondrous is the swimming hole at the foot of the falls – the cold water is bracing and exhilarating. You can also climb the rocks around the falls (carefully) and stand behind the rushing curtain of water for a perfect lost-in-the-moment experience.
Is there parking? Yes, at Minyon Grass picnic area and Minyon Falls lookout (free)
How long is the walk? There’s a 13km-loop track but there are also shorter options
Can you swim here? Yes
Minyon Falls, Nightcap National Park
Somersby Falls, Central Coast
What Somersby Falls lacks in size it makes up for in family appeal. This Central Coast favourite is a great spot for a day of picnicking and swimming. The easy 500m-return Somersby Falls walking track will immerse you in gorgeous rainforest. A 30min drive away are Kariong Brook Falls. There’s a short easy path in, and it’s a great spot for swimming.
Is there parking? Yes, at Somersby Falls Picnic Area (paid)
How long is the walk? About 500m return
Can you swim here? Yes
Somersby Falls, Central Coast
Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains National Park
These falls, in the Blue Mountains region (2hrs west of Sydney), are one of the most popular in the state. Park at the Wentworth Falls picnic area then take the 1.4km Wentworth Falls Track – it’s a reasonably challenging walk, with a couple of hundred stairs. Stop off at Fletcher’s Point to take in the spectacular 100m drop before continuing to the top of the falls. The Blue Mountains is also home to Minnehaha Falls, one of the best-hidden waterfalls in NSW.
Is there parking? Yes, at Wentworth Falls picnic area (free)
How long is the walk? About 1.4km return
Can you swim here? No
Wentworth Falls, Blue Mountains
Curracurrong Falls, Royal National Park
There are plenty of features of Royal National Park, 90min south of Sydney, that will blow you away. But these falls are a stand-out – spilling magnificently into the ocean. The scenic coastal walk starts at Wattamoolla Beach and leads to Eagle Rock (named because the landmark strongly resembles an eagle's beak), before coming to the falls themselves – meaning you get to see not one but two beautiful natural sights along the way.
Is there parking? The closest parking is at Wattamolla Beach (note that while there are many car spaces, it can get busy on sunny weekends, so it's best to arrive early)
How long is the walk? About 8km return
Can you swim here? No, but pack your swimmers and take a dip at Wattamolla before or after
Curracurrong Falls and Eagle Rock, Royal National Park
