Enjoy a spectacular scenic drive along the loop road and discover galleries, gifts, cafes, restaurants, pubs, jazz, parklands, picnics, beaches, pools, horse riding, wild life, lookouts and history. A great way to spend a day is to explore this unique stretch of the Australian coastline. You will experience the same dramatic beauty that has attracted many famous artists from all over the world during the past centuries. Make sure you pack the picnic rug and a few snacks so when you come across that special spot you can spread out and take it all in.

Give yourself plenty of time to try out unique cafes and eateries and search out the amazing range of original art, antiques and creative gifts. And there's plenty of other sight seeing and recreations whether you are looking for a game of golf, a visit to an orchard or a plant nursery. How to get there is really very simple and the golden rule is to follow the route 60 signs.

Situated just one hour's drive south Sydney's international airport, the city of Wollongong and the Illawarra stretches out over 30 kilometres of breathtaking coastline, pristine beaches, rich bushland and rainforests to the dramatic escarpment.

From Sydney, the Illawarra region is easily accessible by coach, train and car along the Grand Pacific Drive

Accommodation is varied from back packer - budget motels - beach front tourist parks to deluxe four star hotels - make sure you book for holiday periods to avoid disappointment.

From Helensburgh in the north to Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour and Gerringong and Gerroa in the south, there's a fascinating variety of activities and entertainment to satisfy all your family needs.