VISIT Illawarra Galleries Theatre Pubs & Clubs North of Wollongong Grand Pacific Drive Stanwell Park Helensburgh Thirroul Wollongong Eating Guide Jamberoo Gerringong Shellharbour Kiama Festivals & Events Where to stay Golf Courses Attractions Fun & Discovery Beaches & Parks Tours & Sightseeing Adventure

Magnificent scenery & historic settlements An abundance of treasures - old, new and antique - are waiting to be discovered in the beautiful Illawarra. Just where to go next. Its decisions, decisions all the way when looking for the top spots in the area north of Wollongong. Coming from Sydney follow the F6 to Waterfall and then take the first turn on the right - yes follow the route 60 signs and the Helensburgh pointer. From Bulli Pass, turn right at the route 60 sign and follow the Helensburgh pointer.From Appin, once again take the "north route" do not enter the F6 but turn left at the route 60 sign. The Coastal route is much simpler - just follow Lawrence Hargrave Drive, from the south or Lady Wakehurst Drive from the north.Nature Reserve to see one of the worlds finest vista. The views over the Pacific Ocean and the green hinterland are breath taking. 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.   Otford Farm www.tourismwollongong.com

SYMBIO WILDLIFE GARDENS: Located 45 minutes south of Sydney and 15 minutes south of Sutherland, Symbio Wildlife Gardens borders the World famous Royal National Park and is the gateway to Sydney’s Scenic South Coast. Symbio is open 9.30 daily (except Christmas Day). To get there follow the F6 Sydney/Wollongong Freeway and follow the Helensburgh Stanwell Park Symbio signs - 15 seconds from the freeway - it’s that easy! Experience some of the worlds amazing wildlife in natural and relaxed surrounds. Enjoy a splash in the pool or meet some of the park personalities at daily shows from 11.30am. Picnic in the park grounds or enjoy some Aussie tucker from the take away selection. Cuddle the koalas, hand feed the roos, get close to crocodiles, American alligators and look one of the boa constrictors in the eye (if you’re game!). A day out at Symbio is a memorable Australian Wildlife Experience - so don’t forget the camera. www.symbiozoo.com.au 7-11 Lawrence Hardgrave Drive Helensburgh NSW 2508 Open from 9.30 everyday (except Christmas Day) Ph: 4294 1244

For every season!...Adventure, Views, Relaxation

From Helensburgh to Otford, Clifton to Stanwell Park and Stanwell Tops to Darkes Forest and Bulli Tops, down Bulli Pass and back along Lawrence Hargrave Drive to the "Birth Place of Flight". Kilometre for kilometre there is more to see and do than in any other comparable distance - and groups are well catered for. There are many wonderful outdoor experiences. Picnic at beautiful Kellys Falls, visit the Hindu Temple, bushwalk or laze on a golden beach. The best are to be found within these web pages.

The spectacular views and diverse Australian flora along the area's many walking tracks is a delight to behold and more enjoyable with a qualified guide. The three main tracks are the Forest Walk, Wadi Wadi and Garden of Peace - The latter, from the Garden of Peace on Stanwell Tops down to the railway station is quite beautiful but does require a degree of fitness. Nature is the theme throughout the area with its beauty, peace and seclusion - Unless you take the adventure trail and then the thrills are only limited by your choice of activity.

Fine Art Galleries Articles Fine Art Gallery is situated in the lovely beach village of Stanwell Park. The gallery is a pleasant 30 minutes drive from Wollongong and one hour from Sydney. Artist John Vander and his wife, Frances, own Articles. John, a full time artist since 1976, has won many awards and his work is represented in leading commercial galleries throughout Australia. A good selection of his work is on display as well as work by many leading artists and well known potters. John Vander was born in Belgium in 1945. He came to Australia in 1969 and began to paint professionally in 1976. Through his unique style, illustrating with careful research his impressions of historical Australia, John has become one of Australia's top selling artists. Mr and Mrs Vander began their 'dream' from humble beginnings, and with the support of many artists and craftspeople and friends plus the keen following of the local people and art lovers, the gallery has grown rapidly. Articles is open 10am - 5pm on Friday, Saturday and Sundays and Public Holidays. The Fine Art Gallery is located a 111 Lawrence Hargrave Drive Stanwell Park and can be contacted on (02) 4294 2491.

Travel the Grand Pacific Drive - Wollongong Visitors Guide