Discover Australia’s hidden gem for studying Hotel Management

When considering where to study Hotel Management in Australia, many people think of busy capital cities or beachside destinations: locations where there are also plenty of hotels for on-the-job training or part-time work while studying. Yet, the Blue Mountains, nestled just outside Sydney in New South Wales, offers a unique setting and loads of opportunities for students aiming for success in the hospitality industry.

A hidden hotel industry gem, the Blue Mountains region is actually one of the most established locations for luxury retreats, sustainable boutiques and spa hotels in the whole country. The incredible natural beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage mountains, combined with its quaint villages and easy Sydney access has made it the ideal weekend escape for generations of tourists.

You might be surprised to discover that there are over 165 hotels across the mountain villages and nearby valleys, ranging from exclusive luxury wellness resorts to small, local B&B operators. As home to the prestigious Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School (BMIHMS), the region also combines an exceptional educational institution with an inspiring environment. Here’s why the Blue Mountains are Australia’s brilliant option for hotel management studies.

Blue Mountains: The hidden gem

The Blue Mountains region offers visitors an ideal blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, history, arts and crafts and culinary destinations. The welcoming, picturesque communities of colonial cottages accessible along the train line such as Katoomba, Blackheath and Leura, each offer unique attractions. Tourists can visit each village and explore its cafes, clifftop views, restaurants, antique markets, bookstores, art galleries and day spas.

Known for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys of temperate rainforest, dramatic waterfalls and scenic lookouts, the area also boasts UNESCO World Heritage status, attracting international nature-loving tourists year-round. Hiking, rock climbing, canyoning, horse-riding and other forms of outdoor recreation bring thousands of visitors here each year.

Because of this natural allure, the Blue Mountains region has a historic legacy as a luxury destination. In fact, there has been an active tourism industry in the Blue Mountains going all the way back to the late 1800s, when the newly built railroad first made the mountains accessible to Sydney’s opulent leisure classes. During the 19th and 20th centuries, high-end hotels, spas, and retreats flourished here, setting the standard for luxury hospitality in Australia. Wellness retreats, high-end eco-lodges and sustainable tourism now also play a big role in the local economy.

Today, the region’s thriving tourism economy and diverse accommodation sector make it an excellent location for aspiring hoteliers, offering practical exposure in a world-renowned destination. For hospitality students, studying here means gaining insights into a unique, sustainable tourism industry. Students have an opportunity to explore this long-standing international tourist economy first-hand as consumers or to learn on the job through part-time work, placements and internships in some of the many world-class hotels in the region.

A hotel management school in the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School (BMIHMS) located at Leura offers one of the most respected hospitality programs in the Asia Pacific, right in the heart of this unique regional tourism sector. The Leura residential campus is designed as a simulated hotel, providing hands-on experience in every aspect of hotel operations, from front desk management to restaurant service. The training model is hands-on, preparing students for real-world roles with a unique focus on both practical, leadership and academic development.

Recognised globally, BMIHMS ranks as the top 3 in Oceania in the QS World University Rankings for Hospitality and Leisure Management Schools (QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2024). Graduates from BMIHMS are highly sought after due to the program’s strong industry connections, practical training environment, and the school's robust network with leading hospitality brands. Students complete their studies with a blend of classroom learning and industry placements, giving them the opportunity to apply their skills in real-world settings, both locally and globally.

Well-trained hotel management professionals are in high and growing demand in Australia. A Bachelor of Business (International Hotel and Resort Management) degree or similar from a highly regarded school such as BMIHMS would offer a direct pathway into a successful career as a hotelier, in Australia or globally.

Things to do in the Blue Mountains after class

From exploring nature to immersing yourself in the area’s rich cultural heritage, the Blue Mountains provide an ideal backdrop for both relaxation and adventure. Here are some must-do experiences in the Blue Mountains that will help you to develop a broader industry perspective as a hotel professional, while also providing some relaxation and adventure.

Scenic bush walks and outdoor adventures

The Blue Mountains National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails that wind through dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and tranquil valleys. Here are some of the most popular walks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s a walk for you, for example:

• The Grand Canyon Walk: This 6-kilometre loop takes you down into the depths of the Grand Canyon, showcasing a stunning variety of plants, waterfalls, and rock formations
• Wentworth Falls to Jamison Valley Walk: For a slightly more challenging route, the trail from Wentworth Falls descends into the picturesque Jamison Valley, offering views of the falls, surrounding cliffs, and dense rainforest

For the more adventurous, there are lots of popular canyoning, climbing and horse riding at a number of cliff faces and locations nearby. Explore hidden gorges, waterfalls, and creeks by scaling cliffs or abseiling into clear rock pools. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced adventurer, friendly local companies offer guided tours suited to all levels.

These outdoor activities not only allow students to spend time in nature, have fun and decompress - they also help build an appreciation for sustainable tourism practices and the value of unique ecologies. Students will gain a deep understanding of ecotourism from a consumer perspective: an important area of focus for hotel management.

Pamper yourself at spas and wellness retreats

Wellness is one of the fastest growing sectors in the hotel industry right now - and what better way to study this trend up close than to treat yourself to some day spas? When you need a break from your studies, the Blue Mountains offers a wide range of luxurious spas and wellness retreats. Rejuvenate your mind and body in between exams:

• The Japanese Bath House at Lake Lyell: Inspired by traditional Japanese onsen (hot springs), this spa uses naturally mineralised water drawn from underground springs.
• Spa Sublime: Situated in a historic colonial house in Katoomba, Spa Sublime offers a variety of treatments, including massage therapies, facials, and indulgent spa packages.
• Parklands Day Spa: Located in the picturesque Parklands Garden and Lodges Hotel in Blackheath, the spa is surrounded by lush gardens, making it an ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Enjoying wellness experiences as a consumer will teach you valuable lessons in hospitality, guest care, and service delivery—all essential components of a hotel management curriculum.

Explore local art galleries, antique stores and crafts markets

The Blue Mountains is home to a rich arts and cultural community, with numerous galleries, antique stores, and vintage shops scattered across the region. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary art, local crafts or finding vintage treasures, the Blue Mountains offers a wealth of opportunities to explore:

• Norman Lindsay Gallery and Cultural Centre: The former home and studio of Australian artist Norman Lindsay showcases his artwork and personal collection, providing insight into the artist’s life and the creative process. 
• Victory Theatre Antique Centre: Located in Blackheath, this charming antique market occupies an old Art Deco cinema building and is a treasure trove of vintage items, from furniture to jewellery. 
• Memento Vintage and Antiques and the Katoomba Antiques Centre both located in Katoomba are also a must-see.
• The Blue Mountains Cultural Centre: This gallery in Katoomba hosts a variety of exhibitions, showcasing the work of local and national artists. The centre also offers educational programs, making it a great spot for students interested in the intersection of art and hospitality.
• Blue Mountains Craft and Produce Markets: If you’re a fan of homemade jam, crafts, and wandering around markets, every weekend brings a lot of options across the mountain villages.

While enjoying these activities, students can gain an insight into cultural tourism and the importance of local arts economies in adding to overall guest experiences. Hotel management students will appreciate the importance of integrating local art, history, and culture into their guest experience designs.

Experience dining at Iconic Venues

The Blue Mountains boasts a variety of diverse restaurants that provide a perfect way to unwind. These dining establishments reflect the region’s rich heritage and remain an integral part of its vibrant hospitality scene.

• Darley’s Restaurant: Located in the original historic homestead of Sir Frederick Darley, this fine-dining restaurant is known for its exceptional food and historic ambience.

This historic venue offers a unique glimpse into the past, highlighting luxury service, architecture, hotel design, and the rich history of the hospitality industry.

Secret places in the Blue Mountains to study

For students looking for unique study spots, the Blue Mountains is full of serene, inspiring locations perfect for catching up on coursework or reading over lessons learned in class:

• Leura Cascades Picnic Area: A tranquil spot nearby to the BMIHMS campus with the sound of waterfalls and birds in the background, ideal for studying or practising presentations.
• BLAQ, Blue Mist Cafe and the Megalong Valley Tearooms: These are just three of the many chic, cosy and fantastic quality cafes around the Mountains villages, where you can bring your laptop or notes to study. With a flat white or some tea and scones to keep you warm, the cafes in the Blue Mountains are great choices for studying during winter.
• The Everglades Gardens: A lush, historic garden of an Art Deco heritage house, also near the BMIHMS campus in Leura, with quiet paths and shaded benches that offer a picturesque setting for study sessions.
• Govetts Leap Lookout: A little further afield, with sweeping views over Grose Valley and a seating area looking out, this iconic lookout is perfect for outdoor studying while admiring the impressive valleys below, giving you a break from traditional classroom walls.
• Katoomba Library: If you need somewhere indoors to study on a rainy day, the modern and quiet Katoomba Library offers wifi, desks and comfy chairs, within walking distance of Leura and the BMIHMS campus.

Why the Blue Mountains is the ideal place to study Hotel Management

Studying in the Blue Mountains offers a distinctive advantage for those pursuing hotel management in Australia. Not only is it an awe-inspiring location where every day is full of natural beauty, but its rich history as a destination and its diverse hospitality economy provide students with opportunities to gain a broader understanding of luxury tourism, sustainable practices, and guest experiences - within a unique UNESCO world heritage area.

With access to an internationally acclaimed school like BMIHMS, as well as the over 165 hotels in the region, students can gain invaluable skills and exposure to industry standards in a unique setting and economy.

By choosing the Blue Mountains as a region in which to learn their profession, hotel management students are setting themselves up for a career that values innovation, environmental sustainability, long-term customer satisfaction and appreciation of historical legacy. Whether you’re an international student seeking a unique entry point into the Australian industry or a local aiming to excel in a niche like eco-tourism, the Blue Mountains offers everything needed to learn from some of the oldest luxury hotels in the country, and to build your successful career in hotel management.