Village People

BLACKHEATH

SITTING AT AN ALTITUDE OF 1065 METRES, BLACKHEATH IS CLOSE TO THE HIGHEST POINT IN THE REGION. THE INVIGORATING AIR, COLONIAL HISTORY, GLORIOUS GARDENS AND GREAT MIX OF CAFÉS, SHOPS AND GALLERIES MAKE IT THE PERFECT PLACE TO EXPLORE ON A WINTER’S DAY.

VICTORY THEATRE

There’s something in the Blackheath air that draws creative folk from near and far. The village is home to an impressive number of artists – Rowen Matthews, Les Love, Ray Harrington, Leonie Lyall and Margaret Aalders all take their inspiration from the spectacular surrounds and are celebrated at local galleries.

Fashion designer and artist Jenny Kee has long added her vibrancy to the village – her colourful mural can’t be missed as you enter Govetts Leap Road, and her signature waratah paintings are exhibited at Hat Hill Gallery.

Creativity is also key to the success of local businesses. Set over two levels, Victory Theatre is a treasure trove – you’ll need a good hour to peruse the antique and vintage wares before taking a breather at the downstairs café. CABIN & CO

Across the road is Cabin & Co, where you’ll find designer fashion pieces amid furniture and homewares, along with Ravir Boutique, where natural fibres reign. Blackheath Interiors & Homewares is down the road, and Keith Rowe and Kayo Yokoyama’s Glass Gallery is on the highway.

There are outstanding dining experiences to be had at the award-winning Ashcrofts Bistro, Escarpment and Vesta – fresh, seasonal cuisine is served up at all three. Meet Me At Matt’s is a favourite lunch destination, while the Gardners Inn offers hearty pub fare with a side of history – it’s the oldest licensed hotel in the Blue Mountains.

Perhaps most impressive is Blackheath’s natural beauty. Head straight for Govetts Leap Lookout to soak up the magnificence of the Grose Valley and refresh your spirit. BML