Poet's Cottage: clifftop walks, fire, spa bath

One of the very first homes built in the district, Poet's Cottage is a beautifully restored and extended 1912 worker's cottage at the edge of the Valley of the Waters in historic Wentworth Falls. After more than a century it has been lovingly brought back to life, full of character and quietly elegant, and now offers a peaceful retreat for couples, friends and families in the heart of the upper Blue Mountains. There is no cleaning fee and no pet fee.

You'll have the best of both worlds: peace and quiet away from the tourist crowds, yet just a short drive from everything that makes the mountains special. Wentworth Falls village is three minutes away, Leura five, and Katoomba's famous Three Sisters a quick drive on. Best of all, the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park backs directly onto the property - walking tracks lead from the back gate to the historic Conservation Hut cafe, sweeping views over the Valley of the Waters, and the National Pass track down to Wentworth Falls waterfall, one of Australia's finest walks. The cottage also makes a very comfortable base for the Grand Clifftop Walk.

Inside, the cottage is self-contained and full of pampering comforts. The open-plan lounge and dining room is warmed by a freestanding Regency gas fireplace and central heating, with polished Australian Spotted-Gum floors, sliding French doors and antique stained-glass windows giving it real soul. The chef's-style kitchen is fully equipped, with a Smeg freestanding stove, dishwasher and a cafe-style Nespresso machine, and there are views out of almost every window.

There is room here for everyone. Three bedrooms - two queens, a king-single and two singles - comfortably sleep two to seven, and the oak dining table seats six with extra chairs on hand for a larger gathering. Groups of four to six settle in especially well, whether it's a milestone birthday, a weekend away with friends or a family holiday. Children are warmly welcomed, and a port-a-cot and highchair are available on request.

Step out onto the west-facing Merbau deck to watch honey-eaters sip nectar from the garden flowers, or settle into the lovebird seats on the front verandah. The large garden is yours to wander, and the deck is made for a glass of champagne at sunset. When the day is done, sink into the indoor spa bath and let the mountains work their quiet magic.

Whether it's a romantic escape, a family holiday or a base for trekkers and bird enthusiasts, Poet's Cottage offers simple elegance, real comfort and the very best of the Blue Mountains right at the back door.

A popular holiday home since 2013 and multi-award winning across several booking platforms.