Jenolan plan for five star and fabulous

INITIATIVES: To promote overnight stays in regional NSW, the NSW government is funding the renovation of the iconic, heritage-listed hotel, Jenolan Caves House.

INITIATIVES: To promote overnight stays in regional NSW, the NSW government is funding the renovation of the iconic, heritage-listed hotel, Jenolan Caves House.

Situated on the western edge of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Jenolan boasts the most spectacular caves in Australia. It is Australia's largest publicly accessible cave system, and the world's oldest caves - 340 million years. Pure underground rivers, fascinating guided cave tours, challenging 'adventure caving' and scenic bush walks come together to create unforgettable experiences.

The NSW government has decided to fund four ambitious projects at Jenolan, because they will have a lasting effect on the region's prosperity.

Jenolan will receive money to construct a state-of-the-art visitor centre, the Jenolan Gateway, and to upgrade the Blue Lake and surrounding area. The Blue Lake project will involve constructing a beautiful (wheelchair friendly) boardwalk around the small but perfect man-made lake - famous for its extraordinary turquoise waters that flow from the caves. The boardwalk will protect the habitat of the resident platypuses and will allow visitors to safely view the platypuses and other lake fauna.

Jenolan plans to construct a new walking track circuit, in the nearby McKeown's Valley. Anyone who appreciates walking in pristine mountain valleys, catching glimpses of wild wallabies, kangaroos and lyrebirds will appreciate this project.

To promote overnight stays in regional NSW, the NSW government is funding the renovation of the iconic, heritage-listed hotel, Jenolan Caves House. This is a dream come true for Jenolan staff, management and residents of the nearby town of Oberon.

For Jenolan Caves House, the grant will mean that at last, it can have the features that all 21st century hotel guests consider essential. It will be fabulous and 5-star.

The hotel renovations should begin in 2020. That means that anyone who loves authentic historical ambience is strongly advised to book a night or two in Caves House now, before renovations start. Book online at www.jenolancaves.org.au.

During renovations, Jenolan's other accommodation (the Mountain Lodge, the Gatehouse backpacker lodge and the self-contained cottages) will be available for overnight guests as usual.

SHARE