katoomba I

It's been at least 20 years since I was last in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, and can I just say . . . things have changed a little! It was always breathtaking to visit this chain of villages and towns draped over the stunning Blue Mountain range - but time and cleverness have added even more to this truly beautiful part of the world.

After our visit to Margaret Hamilton's Pinerolo children's book cottage, we stopped in Blackheath for lunch at the Victory Theatre and Antique Centre where we enjoyed some delicious spoils (after an unusually lengthy wait).

Then it was into Glee Books (I mean, how could we resist?) and then off to Katoomba and our beautiful little cottage.

Waratah Cottage is just the sweetest place to stay - voted by Country Style magazine as one of the top four Blue Mountains stays.

This little two bedroom house has the most divine kitchen, a luxurious bathroom, French-doored bedrooms and an endless array of those 'special touches' that make cottages like this so worth staying in, including French-inspired soft furnishings, a fireplace and comfy armchairs. The collection of magazines and books, CDs and DVDs is also inspiring.

The garden, however, was my absolute fave. Teensy but so beautifully chic and lovingly cared for, our only regret was not having more time to enjoy it. Here is a glimpse at the gorgeous main bedroom, with its views into the gorgeous garden.

Here is the second bedroom, complete with a faux border collie featured throughout the cottage - on coasters, in photographs.

I am so in love with this kitchen

Reluctantly tearing ourselves away from the garden, we headed down to Echo Point to visit the jaw-dropping Three Sisters site. We originally planned this little jaunt around Riley's school project on this incredible rock formation - and he wasn't disappointed . . . what an incredible sight to behold - the cliff faces and bluffs, the rising mountains and falling valleys, the rocky outcrops, and of course - those magnificent Three.

Check back tomorrow for our journey into the stunning valley below . . . and much more.