Portal lookout

Located on top of the lower ridges of the Blue Mountains National Park is the Portal Lookout.

This lookout offers magnificent views of the Glenbrook Gorge and the Nepean River junction. The observation point’s wheelchair accessible path makes it a perfect stopover point for car tours for visitors. Thrill-seekers and adventure lovers can take advantage of this base location to indulge in abseiling and climbing.

Gazing across the Glenbrook Gorge and the water, visitors will be awe-inspired by the grand sweep of the Nepean River opening up to the Cumberland Plains on the western edge of Sydney. One can also discover evidence that the ridge top was an ancient riverbed in the large rounded pebbles called lapstones.

The Blue Mountains National Park hosts several wild creatures that can be spotted from the Portal Lookout. Shapely angophoras are a common sight with their elegantly contorted limbs that thrive in this rugged terrain. Bearded dragons are often seen sunning themselves on the surrounding rocky outcrops.

For visitors keen on exploring the area further, they can check out the unique Aboriginal art at Red Hands Cave, located within walking distance of the lookout.

The Blue Mountains National Park is open every day, all year round. Visitors should plan their visit to the lookout during daylight hours to enjoy the magnificent view. The easiest way to get to the National Park is by car or train from the Sydney CBD. One needs to take the Great Western Highway from Sydney and follow the signs to Glenbrook. One can then take Ross St and turn left on Bruce Rd to reach the park.