Why are the Blue Mountains blue? What are the Blue Mountains?

The world famous Blue Mountains brings tourists from all over the world to Australia to marvel at their beauty. A common question from visitors (and locals alike!) is: Why are the Blue Mountains blue? When looking at the Mountains from a distance, they appear blue and take on a strong blue haze. This has baffled visitors since Europeans first settled in Sydney in the late 1700s.

So… why are the Blue Mountains blue?

The Blue Mountains are densely covered by Eucalyptus trees which release fine droplets of oil into the atmosphere. When combined with dust particles and water vapour, the Eucalyptus oil droplets scatter short wavelength rays of light which are mainly blue in colour. This is an optical phenomenon which is called “Rayleigh scattering”.

Blue Mountains Accommodation

Come and see the beautiful Blue Mountains and this amazing phenomenon with your own eyes. Book a stay at historic Glen Isla Blue Mountains Accommodation