DESCRIPTION
Departing from Sydney CBD at 7:45am, this tour first travels through the city’s southern suburbs and then along a section of the renowned Grand Pacific Drive, one of Australia’s great coastal drives. Here, stop at a clifftop viewpoint (and popular parasailing and hang gliding launch point) for views of the coastline and the Illawarra Escarpment, which dominates the landscape of the region. Pass through typical Australian beach side communities, with time for you to dip your toes in the water or take a quick swim. Drive, or walk, along the Sea Cliff Bridge, a stretch of the coast road jutting out from the cliff-side and considered a marvel of modern engineering.
Next, veer inland slightly and pass through an agricultural region – famed for its green rolling hills and dairy industry – on your way to Kiama, one of the South Coast’s most pleasant coastal towns. Stop at a headland to take in the town and coastline and view the famed Blowhole, where, when the conditions are right, the sea surges up through a gap in the dark volcanic rock. Stay in Kiama for lunch (at own expense). The town has a range of eateries to suit most tastes and budgets. You can also take a stroll along the main streets, which feature heritage buildings and craft shops.
Leave Kiama and make your final stop in the town of Wollongong, the region’s commercial and industrial center. Although known for its steel industry, Wollongong draws visitors to its appealing waterfront precinct, the “Blue Mile”. Enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, at the headland cannon batteries reflect the importance of the town in years past, and the steel plant can be viewed sitting incongruously along the sandy coastline. Further along, the peaceful harbor – with its two lighthouses, tranquil beach and cafes – is a popular place for rest and relaxation. From here, make the return journey to Sydney, arriving back around 4:45pm.