Grand Exploration in Medlow Bath
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Tucked between its better-known Blue Mountains neighbours Blackheath and Katoomba, Medlow Bath is a suburb perched 1050 metres above sea level with sweeping views over the Megalong Valley. On the traditional lands of the Dharug and Gundungurra people, Medlow Bath is home to the Hydro Majestic hotel, site of Australia’s first hydropathic health resort, the epitome of grand accommodation when established in 1904.
The Hydro Majestic 
The Hydro Majestic - Blue Mountains 
The Boiler Room
Exploring Medlow Bath can easily be done within walking distance of Medlow Bath Station, so why not leave the car at home and enjoy a leisurely train trip instead – it’s the perfect relaxed way to travel.
Just outside the station, make Potbelly at Medlow, a lovely local cafe, your first stop. Housed in a red heritage building that has lived many lives (including as a post office, Catholic church and the Hydro Majestic chauffeur car garage), there’s a huge range of homemade pies, pastries, desserts and brunch dishes to choose from, including plenty of gluten-free options for our coeliac friends. Cosy up to the wood stove on a cold day and sip on a great cup of Bun Coffee.
Potbelly at Medlow 
Medlow Bath Station 
Potbelly at Medlow
Afterwards, take a stroll to nearby Medlow Bath Park and enjoy some relaxed meandering along nature-filled walking paths. At the right time of year, the cherry blossom trees will be blooming – a magnificent sight! Continue your stroll around the neighbourhood to admire the beautifully designed homes, including some picturesque lodgings available to rent, such as Our Glenbogle.
Medlow Bath Park 
The Glenbogle, Medlow Bath 
Medlow Bath Park
Cross the highway overpass to explore the Hydro Majestic hotel, Medlow Bath’s historic landmark. Opened in 1904 and spanning over one kilometre along the escarpment, the hotel was the vision of retail magnate Mark Foy. Introducing long galleries, a domed concert and dance hall imported from Chicago, and hydrotherapy treatments, it was a luxurious getaway for the Sydney elite. The interior design is a throwback to the early 1900s, with opulent ceilings, plush velvet furniture, walls covered in unique art, and every corner bringing spectacular views of the Blue Mountains. For the historically curious, the Hydro Majestic runs historian-led tours of the hotel, so be sure to book ahead.
The Hydro Majestic 
The Wintergarden, Hydro Majestic 
The Hydro Majestic
Make the most of your trip with a spectacularly scenic high tea in The Wintergarden room, or for more casual eats head to The Pavilion, a room full of hotel memorabilia fascinating in its own right. Another superb option is The Boiler House, the former site of the Hydro Majestic’s steam boilers. Its dining room is designed with big glass windows providing you with panoramic views over the Megalong Valley. Their menu is diverse with a focus on local produce; the perfectly cooked fish of the day and the buttery Angus rump are excellent examples of the quality you can expect.
The Boiler House 
The Boiler House 
The Pavilion, Hydro Majestic
Nearby, walking tracks lead to the sunbaths that guests visited in the hotel’s heyday. Pop into The Pavilion for a map of the local area, and take care on some of the unpaved paths. Next time you’re headed to the Blue Mountains, make sure to add a visit to Medlow Bath to your plans. It’s packed with unexpected things to see and do – everything you could want for a great day out.
Potbelly at Medlow 
The Hydro Majestic 
The Hydro Majestic
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