The Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains of Australia is a Natural Wonder

The majestic Blue Mountains are the location of the breathtaking rock formation known as The Three Sisters. The name itself is derived from Aboriginal legend and the location, set deep in the heart of Australia's Blue Mountains, has an otherworldly quality about it.

The Legend of The Three Sisters
The Aboriginal legend of The Three Sisters has a few different interpretations as to how The Three Sisters rock formation came into being. The most reported Aboriginal legend explains the story of three sisters; Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo, who fell in love with three brothers from a neighboring Aboriginal tribe. It was forbidden by tribal law for the three sisters to marry the Nepean tribe brothers, which led to the tragic story of The Three Sisters. The Nepean brothers did not take the tribal marriage restrictions well and they decided to start a tribal war. The Aboriginal witch doctor of the Katoomba tribe feared for the lives of the three sisters and cast a spell to temporarily turn them to stone to protect them. During the battle, the witch doctor was killed, leaving the three sisters forever frozen in their stone form. Today, the legend is still passed down to explain the beautiful natural wonder of The Three Sisters rock formation in Katoomba.

The Three Sisters Experience
The scenic drive from Sydney to Katoomba took about an hour and a half. The drive windsalong the Great Western Highway, through a number of Australia's Blue Mountain towns. Once at Katoomba, Echo Park is easy to reach, and there were several signs pointing the way.

Nothing can really prepare you for the panoramic view of the Blue Mountains from Echo Park. There is no admission fee for the view and parking was easily found on the street. The Echo Park area has a tourist information center right near The Three Sisters viewing site, as well as a souvenier shop. The first thing on the agenda was to glimpse a long, slow view of The Three SIsters. The overlook has a railing and several perfect photo spots. The Jamison Valley can be seen from many angles at Echo Park.

The view of The Three Sisters can be seen from the highest overlook, as well as from other points below. A marked trail leads to a lower overlook, and continues on for those who wish to hike even closer. In the distance the Blue Mountans can be seen for miles, making this one of the most panoramic spots in the Blue Mountains. There is a sense of being near a very spiritual place when standing on the overlook with The Three Sisters in sight. This is one of the places in the world to make a point of seeing, if given the chance.

How to Plan a Visit
If you are in the Sydney area, the drive to Katoomba and the Blue Mountains is well worth the ride. The natural beauty of Australia's Blue Mountains and The Three Sisters is a refreshing day trip away from the city. There is also a Sydney rail system that will transport to many Blue Mountain towns. The town of Katoomba has a variety of shops, restaurants, and other tourist attraction spots to visit while in the area.

More information can be found at www.bluemts.com.au. If you plan to hike near The Three Sisters area, be sure to bring some good walking shoes and a light jacket in case of weather changes.