Tall Stories: A Lively History of the Blue Mountains

Most people in the Blue Mountains look down, not up: are they mountains at all? Does Echo Point have an echo, and did Govett really make his leap? As for the story of the Three Sisters... it's complicated!

World-famous for their natural beauty, the Blue Mountains also possess a rich history. Here it is told by way of lively incidents and fascinating people who have lived and died here, artists and visionaries, climbers and bushwalkers, those on the run.

This is a story of the traditional lives of the Aboriginal owners, extensive mining operations in the. valleys, and strange religious institutions. Of a golden period of tourism followed by years of decline — which preserved its character — and eventual resurrection. 

Welcome to one of Australia's most extraordinary places.