A Bibliophile’s dream trail

The past weekend I enjoyed doing the Blue Mountains Bookshop Trail with my sister! We managed to visit all the shops but needed to drive instead of relying on public transport, especially on a Saturday.

Stopping at 11 bookshops along the way, the Blue Mountains Bookshop trail is perfect for all readers, from the well-read to the beginners.

1. Blue Dragon Books, Glenbrook

The trail begins at the foot of the Blue Mountains at Blue Dragon Books in Glenbrook. I explored around with my sister before the store opened and found some great cafes. I walked away with a great picture book The Best Cat by Libby Hathorn.

2. The Turning Page Bookshop, Springwood

Next stop was The Turning Page Bookshop in Springwood. I loved the selection of picture books, graphic novels and Fantasy books. Found some great books but ended up walking out of the store with Bernie thinks in Boxes by Jess Horn.

3. Chapters and Leaves, Faulconbridge

Chapters and Leaves in Faulconbridge mixes two loves of book lovers, tea and books. Browse the shelves for books or gifts and even tea.

4. RoseyRavelston Books, Lawson

Next stop was RoseyRavelston Books in Lawson. I loved this show, which featured a mixture of secondhand and new books. I especially loved the shelves dedicated to local authors. I walked away with three picture books by Jodie McLeod.

5. Good Earth Bookshop, Wentworth Falls

Good Earth Bookshop in Wentworth Falls is a cosy bookshop that is filled with preloved books and a small selection of new editions to choose from. There was a group for memoir writing using the space when I visited. I found The Book Star by Bec Nanayakkara.

6. Wyrd Books, Wentworth Falls

Just around the corner is the next stop, Wyrd Books in Wentworth Falls. This shop focuses on fantasy, sci-fi and horror. Although I don’t read a lot of horror, there were a lot of books that sounded interesting. I had to have a lot of self-control as Wyrd Books also focuses on first-edition hardcovers and special editions that were being sold as sets. If you are building your collection, definitely head here.

7. Megalong Books, Leura

My next stop was Megalong Books in Leura. I definitely see why it’s a favourite for locals and tourists. They had a fantastic selection of books, and I loved walking through the archway of books to the classics, the Young Adult section, and the Children’s section.

8. Mr Pickwick’s Fine Old Books, Katoomba

This shop is a treasure trove for lovers of old and rare books. Visitors might be surprised when they first step inside, as the ground floor is a haven of vintage wonders—imagine clothing, homewares, toys, jewelry, furniture, and art, all echoing the charm of bygone eras.

But it’s the downstairs where the true enchantment begins: the bookstore. While you’ll find a selection of modern novels, it’s the vintage collection that truly stands out. Collectors will be in paradise, with shelves lined with volumes dating back to the early 1800s, each one a piece of history waiting to be rediscovered.

9. The Little Lost Bookshop, Katoomba

Tucked away on Hapenny Lane, amidst a charming array of small shops perfect for a leisurely stroll, lies The Little Lost Bookshop. This two-story haven for book lovers offers a serene escape and an abundance of literary treasures. The ground floor features a diverse selection of fiction and non-fiction, alongside a curated collection of books about the Blue Mountains.

Upstairs, shelves of second-hand books eagerly await new readers. You’ll also find board games, cards, bookmarks, and unique gifts. While fitting 12 bookshops into one day might be a challenge, Katoomba offers plenty of cozy accommodations—ideal for an overnight stay, so you can wake up refreshed and ready to complete the trail the following day.

10. Gleebooks, Blackheath

Next stop was Gleebooks in Blackheath. Rows of bookshelves invite countless “just one more” moments from browsing book lovers. Gleebooks Blackheath is more than just a bookstore—it’s a community hub that hosts events year-round, from author talks to live readings and book launches. Everyone is welcome!

11. A Reader’s Heaven, Lithgow

This bookshop may be the final stop on the Blue Mountains Book Trail, but it’s well worth the extra travel time.

A Reader’s Heaven boasts an extensive collection of both new and preloved books, where visitors can easily lose themselves among the shelves. The owners, Paul and Jo, are incredibly welcoming, always eager to share their favorite book recommendations. Their love for the store runs so deep that they even chose it as the place to get married.