This drive takes you to one of Sydney's favourite recreation areas - the rugged and scenic Blue Mountains.

From central Sydney, go west along Parramatta Road, to join the Western Motorway (M4). Continue on to the Great Western Highway (Route 32) at the base of the mountains.

After Glenbrook (information centre), continue to the Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum at Faulconbridge, devoted to one of Australia's most celebrated artists and writers. Wentworth Falls offers short bushwalks and the Falls Reserve.

Continue on the highway until you reach the Leura turnoff.

The picturesque town of Leura has cafés, crafts shops and the cool-climate Everglades Gardens.

Take the signposted scenic Cliff Drive to nearby Katoomba.

This brings you to Echo Point with spectacular views of the Three Sisters, the surrounding cliffs, and the forested Jamison Valley.

Continue on the Cliff Drive, which rejoins the Great Western Highway. Follow the signs to Blackheath.

In Blackheath, head for the National Parks and Wildlife Service Heritage Centre, and a splendid panorama.

Keep following the Great Western Highway to Mount Victoria.

Mount Victoria is classifed as an Urban Conservation Area and has a museum, teashops and a few antique shops.

Follow the Darling Causeway then turn right on to the Bells Line of Road.

Visit Mount Tomah Botanic Garden, the cool-climate branch of Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens.

Continue to Windsor, then follow Route 40, and the Western Motorway.