Stretching south of Sydney from the Royal National Park to the Shoalhaven River. Illawarra is a derivation of an Aboriginal word meaning 'high and pleasant place by the sea.' Travel there and you'll understand why. Reserves dotted along the craggy coast feature mountain streams, waterfalls and colourful wildflowers. See the distinctive vegetation of the area, including cabbage palms, tree ferns and giant fig trees.
Below a spectacular escarpment is the popular resort of Shellharbour, one of the coast's oldest towns. With long, clean, sandy white beaches and drawcards such as surfing, boating and fishing, it's clear why it's a water enthusiasts dream. One of Shellharbour's main features is Blackbutt Reserve where you can enjoy a picnic in the peaceful surrounds of this coastal plain forest.
Because Shellharbour provides easy access to all the Illawarra's attractions, it's the perfect place to base your family. Further south is Kiama, a small resort and fishing town renowned for its rolling green hills and crystal blue waters. But no trip to the Illawarra would be complete without a visit to Kiama's most famous attraction, the blowhole. Behind Kiama, the award winning Minnamurra Rainforest Centre attraction in Budderoo National Park is an oasis of calm.
Illawarra features several other National Parks, and each has its own appeal. The Royal National Park just south of Sydney, was the first National Park to be proclaimed in Australia, and has 16000 hectares of sandstone plateau country. Macquarie Pass National Park is a stunning section of the Illawarra escarpment, and consists of densely timbered ridges and rainforest gullies, topped by a rim of impressive cliffs.
Watch hang gliders take off from the escarpment at Stanwell Tops. Walk the Wadi Wadi bush trail, which flanks a magnificent railway viaduct arching 70 metres over the Stanwell Gorge. Ride a bobsled, racing car or speed boat at Jamberoo Recreation Park. When you stroll along the elevated boardwalk at the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, listen out for lyrebirds mimicking the sounds of the rainforest.
Illawarra Accommodation
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