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Gone Walkabout: Exploring the Blue Mountains with Dani & James

At Everything Australian, we believe the best adventures are the ones that take you off the beaten path and into the heart of the countryside. That’s why we teamed up with James and Dani on a journey to the stunning Blue Mountains in NSW, equipped with some of our favourite boots and apparel, to experience the rugged beauty of this iconic Aussie destination.
This trip was part of our Gone Walkabout series, where we help adventurers gear up and head out to explore Australia’s natural wonders. From hiking to hidden waterfalls to stargazing under clear skies, Dani and her partner embraced the spirit of adventure, proving that with the right gear, you can make memories to last a lifetime.
Their journey wasn’t just about the breathtaking views or encounters with wildlife—it was about the freedom to roam and explore with confidence, thanks to boots like the trusty Mongrels and Baxters that carried them every step of the way. Read on to see how they made the most of their countryside escape, and get inspired for your next Gone Walkabout adventure!
Q 1. Who did you travel with, and what inspired this adventure?
I travelled alongside my partner, James. This adventure was all about escaping to the countryside to find some much-needed serenity and peace. Life where we live can get pretty hectic, and I’ve always been inspired by my upbringing near the mountains and countryside. No matter where I’m living, I feel drawn to explore the natural beauty of rural areas and coastal escapes.
Q 2. Where did you go, and what was the highlight of your destination?
We travelled to the Blue Mountains of NSW, focusing primarily on the beautiful Hampton area. This region is brimming with natural wonders: majestic gum trees, lush farmland, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain ranges. The absolute highlight of the trip was hiking to a stunning waterfall and jumping into the refreshing water—it was such an invigorating and unforgettable experience.
Q 3. Where did you stay—were you camping, glamping, or in a cozy retreat?
We stayed in a cozy "Into the Wild" cabin situated in the Hampton area. This little retreat was the perfect mix of comfort and charm, surrounded by panoramic views of rolling farmland and mountain ranges. It felt like the ultimate escape while still offering all the comforts of home.
Q 4. What were the most memorable activities or experiences you had?
The most memorable moments included hiking the beautiful trails of Hampton and discovering the hidden gems along the way, like the nearby waterfall where we jumped in to cool off. In the evenings, we cooked dinner over the fire and stargazed—an experience that truly made us feel connected to nature.
Q 5. What were your top three essentials for the trip?
Our top three essentials for this trip were:
- Hats (Jacaroo) – essential for sun protection and style.
- Sturdy boots – James wore Mongrel boots, and I wore Baxter boots. Both are perfect for rugged outdoor adventures but look great for a casual outing too.
- A bottle of red wine – because there’s nothing better than ending the day with a glass by the fire.
Q 6. What wildlife or natural wonders did you encounter along the way?
We were lucky to see an incredible variety of wildlife! From the Scottish Highland cows and horses grazing in the farmland to kangaroos, wallabies, kookaburras, and even goannas, it felt like nature was showing off just for us.
Q 7. Which boots did you wear, and how did they hold up?
James swore by his Mongrel boots, while I loved my Baxter boots. They held up perfectly on the trails and were rugged enough for the outdoors, but they also looked great when we ventured into town. A win-win!
Q 8. What was your favourite moment or memory from the trip?
My favourite memory was cooking dinner over the fire while gazing at the stars. There’s something so peaceful and grounding about being outdoors at night, surrounded by the sounds of nature and a sky full of stars.
Q 9. What advice would you give to someone planning a similar escape?
If you’re planning an escape to the countryside, my biggest advice is: put your phone away. The scenery and serenity are worth soaking in without distractions. Embrace the moment, and you’ll create memories to cherish forever.
Q 10. Where are you dreaming of going next for your Aussie adventure?
Next on the list? Tasmania! The idea of chasing mountain ranges and embarking on a coastal hiking adventure is so exciting. From the photos I’ve seen, it looks absolutely magical, and I can’t wait to explore it.
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