Ourimbah
Ourimbah
Lithgow
Lithgow
Driving

Ourimbah to Lithgow

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Ourimbah to Lithgow involves a scenic 160-kilometer journey across the Blue Mountains. The most direct route is via the M1 and the Bells Line of Road, offering stunning mountain vistas. Expect a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes depending on mountain traffic. This route takes you through historic towns like Richmond and Bilpin. It is a popular choice for those seeking a picturesque drive away from the coastal plains.

Total Distance: 160 km driving distance, 110 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the Bells Line of Road is the fastest route at 2.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own car is the most economical way to reach Lithgow.
Compare Ourimbah to Lithgow Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price
35-45 AUD in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
M1 Pacific Motorway to Bells Line of Road (B59).

Check for road closures on Bells Line of Road during heavy rain.

Travel Tips
  • Mountain Driving
    Use low gears when descending steep mountain passes to save your brakes.
  • Fuel
    Fill up in Richmond before heading up the mountain, as fuel is more expensive in Lithgow.
  • Weather
    Expect significantly colder temperatures in Lithgow compared to the Central Coast.
  • Traffic
    Avoid traveling on Sunday afternoons when traffic returning to Sydney is heavy.
  • Supplies
    Pack warm clothing, as the weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
Safety Tips
  • Fog
    Use fog lights if visibility drops on the mountain roads.
  • Curves
    Drive slowly on the winding sections of the Bells Line of Road.
  • Wildlife
    Watch for wombats and wallabies crossing the road at night.
  • Emergency
    Keep a mobile phone charged and carry water in case of delays.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train?
    You would need to travel to Sydney Central to catch a train to Lithgow.
  • How long is the drive?
    The drive takes about 2.5 hours via the Bells Line of Road.
  • Is the road safe?
    The road is safe but requires caution due to winding sections.
  • Are there tolls?
    There are no tolls on the Bells Line of Road route.
  • Can I stop in Bilpin?
    Yes, Bilpin is a great place to stop for apple pie and local produce.
Quick Info
  • From Ourimbah, New South Wales, Australia
  • To Lithgow, New South Wales, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn for the vibrant colors of the Blue Mountains or Spring for blooming gardens.

Things to Do in Lithgow
1
Lithgow Blast Furnace
Visit the historic ruins of the iron and steel works. It is a significant site for industrial heritage.
2
Zig Zag Railway
Experience a historic steam train ride through the mountains. It is a major tourist attraction in the region.
3
Lake Lyell
Enjoy fishing, swimming, or picnicking at this scenic reservoir. It is a popular spot for outdoor recreation.
4
Hassans Walls Lookout
View the spectacular escarpments of the Blue Mountains from the highest lookout in the region.
Tags
Ourimbah to Lithgow Bells Line of Road Blue Mountains drive travel to Lithgow Ourimbah road trip NSW scenic drives driving to Lithgow Central Coast to Lithgow