Have you come across a rare opportunity to spend time with a friend?
These moments can be hard to come across, especially is it is child free. You want to make the most of it right?
This blog is outlining some some ideas of where and how you could spend that time.
Many of these ideas could be enjoyed as a couple as well so keep that in mind also.
Hope it inspires you!
Daytime catch up:
High tea at Lilianfels truely is an experience. If you haven’t tried this one- you simply must. Ambience of the ‘Lounge’ is unrivalled, deep plush couches, fireplace and baby grand piano. Oh and food and drinks are lovely too.
CLICK HERE to see more about Lilianfels.
High tea at Hydro Majestic is also a beautiful experience with Spectacular views. You can order other items but the room is fitting for an elegant high tea with some of your favourite people.
CLICK HERE to see more about Hydro Majestic and their high teas.
Megalong Valley Tearooms. It may be a bit of a drive for some, but the drive in itself is idyllic. I don’t think I have ever gone past the tea and scones when I am there, but they are worth the drive.
CLICK HERE for more about Megalong Tearooms.
Sorensens Glasshouse Leura. This cafe and nursery is exactly as it sounds…a Glasshouse. Overlooking beautiful gardens and filled with gorgeous plants and decor items, this is a fairly new business that won my heart immediately. Run by a beautiful local family, food is Devine. When the weather is right sitting out in the Gardens makes for a perfect setting to relax and chat.
CLICK HERE for more about Sorensens Glasshouse.
Bygone Beauties Tearooms and Museum. This is a destination I rarely visit now that I have kids, but it is a special one. Surrounded by teapots and everything related, as well as vintage finds, this is a unique place to stop in for tea and cake, best enjoyed child free and with a fellow tea lover.
CLICK HERE for more about Bygone Beauties Tearooms.
Conservation Hut. This little gem is hidden away in Wentworth Falls, and actually is a lovely to place to come to with the kids also. Food is lovely,views are beautiful, big fireplace in winter. I think a trip to Conservation Hut is best enjoyed if you also make time for a bushwalking before or after, as you can step outside the doors and choose one of several beautiful bush walks.
CLICK HERE for more information about Conservation Hut.
Frankly my Dear Coffee. This has to be one of the prettiest places you will dine at. You will also be served the prettiest food you have ever have plated for you, that tastes equally delicious. This cafe has fast earned itself a great reputation and regular patrons, and for good reason. A great place to stop in for breakfast, morning or lunch and then perhaps enjoy a bit of shopping along Katoomba Street.
CLICK HERE for more about Frankly my Dear Coffee
Lindsays Cafe. Situated on the grounds of the Norman Lindsay Gallery, this sweet little building hidden among the gardens is such a treat. Currently under new management with new Menu, you can choose to sit in the beautiful Mountains cottage or out amoung the gardens- both are just perfect. Then take a stroll over the grounds and even visit the Gallery. What a Classy day to be had. Open for Breakfast and Lunch as well as evening events.
Chapters and Leaves. This little Gem is just off the highway in Faulconbridge. It has just expanded its space and is the perfect spot for an inspired conversation with your favourite people. As the name suggests- they are passionate about books and tea leaves, and have a very impressive selection of both (150 teas in fact). Shelves full of gifts and treasures and a cake cabinet full of delicious treats, what more could you want.
CLICK HERE for Chapters and Leaves
Kickaboom. Like a little sister to ‘Frankly my dear’ this space has the best colour palate and selection of indoor plants. Sumptuous treats and delicious coffee, this is the perfect pit stop while you are perusing the boutique shops in Glenbrook. Of if you are in full mum mode enrolee to the playground with the kids, make sure to get a takeaway coffee on your way.
CLICK HERE for more about Kickaboom
Percy Plunkett. Now this gorgeous little place is in Penrith, but absolutely worth the mention. Also a really pretty restaurant, decor heaven and food is delicious. There is a child friendly outdoor area, but it is a different experience when you are child free, with a friend able to sit and take in the elegance.
CLICK HERE for more about Percy Plunkett.
Emu Hall. Another new destination at the foot of the mountain on this side of the river, recently refurbished and perfectly placed near the new bridge that crosses the Nepean River. The best way to enjoy this little stop is to plan a river walk before or after and then sit and enjoy the views of the river whilst enjoying lovely food, with some of your favourite company.
CLICK HERE for more about Emu Hall.
Out and about of an Evening.
Oriental Hotel in Springwood. Whether you just want some tea and dessert or a full meal with friends, dining by the open fire or out in the beer garden makes for a lovely spot to catch up with friends.
CLICK HERE for more about the Ori.
Bunker. There are restaurants at both Springwood and Leura, Ill admit I am a bit more in love with Leura venue. The views from the back balcony and garden are just beautiful. Can be enjoyed with children, but a little bit more relaxed when you are with some favourite adult company. Whether you are looking for a meal or just drinks and dessert- a lovely destination to try.
CLICK HERE for more about the Bunker.
Echoes. Now this is a special one, for when you really want something special. You may need to save some pennies to afford it but….Worth it. This gorgeous restaurant is truely an experience. The views are stunning, the indoor decor is rich with character and the food is next level delicious. Save this one for a really special occasion with a loved one. If you are really keen, splurge on accomodation and stay the night in one of the most beautiful suites the mountains has to offer.
CLICK HERE for more about Echoes.
The Lookout- Echo Point. Is another restaurant/bar with stunning views and a great atmosphere when you just want to get away for a few hours with some of your favourite company.
CLICK HERE for more about The Lookout Echo Point.
2773. A favourite for the kids yes. But it is also a favourite when I am catching up with friends of an evening. The outdoor atmosphere is really lovely and they keep you pretty warm. Pizza oven and ice cream bar just a few of the wonderful menu offerings. Perhaps you could plan to see a movie at Glenbrook theatre after dinner to polish off the evening perfectly.
Other options:
Bushwalks:
Bushwalks with friends is truely a wonderful way to spend the day.One of my favourites to do with friends is to take the day to walk out to the Ruined castle from Katoomba. Perhaps some refreshments before or after at Scenic World. Or a packed lunch to enjoy onto of the rock that sports 360 degree views of the valley. A day well spent.
CLICK HERE for some other bush walks you can enjoy with and without kids.
Movies:
Enjoying a choc top and a movie with a girlfriend is never going to get old. Especially if it is followed by a meal or dessert at a local venue. (cinemas are subject to COVIDrestrictions)
CLICK HERE for Glenbrook Theatre. Perhaps book a table at Cafe 2773 (listed above) to accompany.
CLICK HERE for Katoomba Theatre. Perhaps consider drinks at The Lookout afterwards, or pizza at the Station Bar beforehand.
CLICK HERE for Mt Vic Flicks. (I will admit I have yet to venture up to this theatre, but I hear great things about this venue.)
Dinner and a show. As we move out of restrictions (hopefully) watch out for what shows are being offered at the The Hub Springwood. A great performance followed by dinner or dessert- perfect evening. The Original is just around the corner if you wanted to book a table.
CLICK HERE to see what is happening at The Hub.
Gallery lover?
Perhaps a look at current exhibitions @
The Cultural Centre Katoomba- CLICK HERE. There is a lovely cafe available to grab lunch at and a beautiful view from the platform outside.
The regional gallery Penrith- CLICK HERE. There is also a cafe here that extends into the gardens to enjoy.
Spa Day anyone?
While both are a little drive, I can vouch that both are worth it.
Sparadise- Japanese Spa house in South Bowenfels. This place must be added to your bucket list. Natural hot springs indoor and outdoor, zen garden with stunning views, in house treatments such as massage and facials as well as a tea house with an incredible variety of teas to choose from. This is such a unique and therapeutic experience for couples and friends.
CLICK HERE for more about Sparadise.
Villa Thalgo in Windsor. A spa day in robes sound good? Book a treatment at the spa and then indulge in all the other facilities while you are there. Book lunch to enjoy while you are there also, a perfect a few hours with friends or someone special.
CLICK HERE for more about Villa Thalgo.
I didn’t want to list anything that I have not tried myself, so I am sure that there are places that I have not included.
Please do let me know of anything you think I should try so I can add it to this list.
Time with friends is such a beautiful investment- for yourself and for others.
If something on this list takes your fancy, contact a friend now and get it booked in!
Enjoy!
Rachel xx
