A pleasant ninety minute drive from Sydney brings you to the Blue Mountains, so named due to the blue haze which permeates the air. This is caused by tiny oil droplets from the ubiquitous and densely packed Eucalyptus trees which cover the mountainsides. Attractions here are mainly related to hiking in the mountains, spectacular views (including the Three Sisters rock formation), and the Jenolan caves. The Jenolan caves are a set of nine caves carved from the limestone over thousands of years. The first recorded discovery was in 1838, and new caves have continued to be found throughout the years, with the last (the Spider Cave) being unearthed in 1975. A nature reserve surrounds the caves, making for some lovely walks and abundant wildlife. We visited the Temple of Baal, so named for its rock formations similarity to Baal as mentioned in the Bible. They include the Angel's Wing and Baal himself, perched at the top of the cave looking down on you! For more information look at www.jenolancaves.org.au.
