ILLAWARRA
Stretching along the New South Wales coast from the Royal National Park to the Shoalhaven River, the Illawarra region is ideal for leisurely touring and weekend retreats, while the beaches and national parks provide ample opportunity for more vigorous activities. Below the spectacular coastal escarpment, Shellharbour is a water enthusiast's dream with its rugged coastline and sheltered beaches.
Surfing, boating and fishing are popular. The Blowhole at Kiama attracts visitors from around the world. Kiama is an amazing contrast of rugged coastlines and the rolling green hills of the Jamberoo Valley. A walk through the Minnamurra Rainforest is an absolute must.
The City of Wollongong has a dramatic cliff entry from the north through Stanwell Park, to the lighthouse at Flagstaff Point. The beauty of the working fishing harbour and the famous North Beach are contrasted with the tranquillity of the magnificent Nan Tien Temple. Illawarra, a sophisticated getaway - just an hour and a half south of Sydney.
One of New South Wales' biggest cities, Wollongong has prospered in its time, but managed to keep its mellow sensibility. It stands by example as a fine place to springboard into the rest of the New South Wales' South Coast pleasures. Wollongong Harbour can make for both an intimate afternoon and a family-oriented day and a stroll through the Botanic gardens is hugely enjoyable.
And it's merely a short distance to beaches at neighbouring suburbs, including Stanwell Park, Coledale, and Sandon Point at Thirroul. Australian history buffs will definitely want to discover facts about Wollongong's major foundation in coalmining.
