Kangaroo Valley to Berry and Wollongong is picturesque and full of early history. The South Coast of Australia's Illawarra area is beautifully unique.
Wollongong
Wollongong is located south of Sydney. It is approximately an hour away by car and an hour and a half by train. The city is nestled between the mountains and the sea and the natural beauty of the area is breathtaking.
The city is delightful, vibrant and bustling with raw energy that seems to come from the land itself. It is a multicultural heaven for visitors. The wide range of cultures ensures a smorgasbord of cuisines that surpasses most other Australian cities. Visitors will delight in the variety of eateries available in malls, arcades and galleries throughout the city.
Wollongong is the gateway to the Illawarra coast famous for it's sparkling white beaches and wonderful resorts. Beaches of neighboring areas such as Stanwell Park, Sandon Point and Coledale are easily accessible.
Historically the area was first settled by the wodi wodi aboriginal tribe. It is said that Captain Cook attempted to alight here in April of 1770 but was unable to land due to rough conditions at sea. The area was eventually settled by farmers and the timber industries. Once the Bulli Pass from Sydney was built in 1868 settlers poured in at a much faster rate. In the late 1880's a rail connection to Sydney was established and the area's famous coalmining industry was begun.
Wollongong is also noted for its steelwork industries which were developed sometime in the late 1920's and continue to flourish today. Many immigrants were lured to the city to work in the increasingly large steelworks, thus the interesting legacy of cultural events and wonderful festivals that are seen throughout the city today.
Here are a few of the most popular places to see in Wollongong.
The Buddhist Temple Nan Tien is a center for cultural, educational and religious functions. It was opened on October 8, 1995 and is the largest temple in the southern hemisphere.
The Wollongong City Gallery hosts more than one thousand pieces in its collection. Visitors may find Aboriginal Art from many areas of the country here.
Australia's Industry World is an entertaining look at the steel industry and it's history in this area.
The Wollongong Fish Markets on the wharves is a great place to sample the many types of seafood available in the area. Fish and chips are a must for anyone visiting for the first time.
Visitors find more than 120 species of animals at the Symbio Koala Gardens. See dingo, emus, ostrich, deer, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, peacocks and koalas to name just a few.
Wollongong has lovely beaches and lagoons that are some of the finest in the country. Most of the beaches are patrolled during the summer months by the best of the lifesaving community. Different beaches boast different environments, some are calm and protected, others offer large breaks for the surfing community. Ask the locals which are best for family fun. Lake Illawara offers many water sports, windsufring, sailing, fishing and prawning are among the many diverse activities available there.
Places to stay vary from caravan parks to beach side units. There are hotels, guest houses and internationally known resorts as well. No matter what your budget, there are a grand variety of accommodations obtainable.
Berry
Berry is located south of Wollongong along the south coast. It sits in the middle of some of the best dairy country in New South Wales and has a fine reputation for its hospitality. It is approximately a two-hour drive from Sydney or two and a half hours by train.
This lovely rural town was founded in 1883. It was named for Alexander Berry, an early explorer who took land grants and became the first white settler in the Shoalhaven area. Today it is home to more than 1,500 people and is a flourishing tourist center.
As one of the area's oldest settlements it houses some fine examples of early architecture and is rich in history. Berry is famous for its arts and craft shops as well as antique markets. The atmosphere in Berry is unspoiled and relaxed, visitors enjoy its tree lined avenues and can meander in the shade enjoying the fresh bouquets of its famous tress and gardens.
Visitors should attempt to be in town the first Sunday of each month when the Berry Markets are being held. Wonderful collections of crafts, pottery and antiques are available as well as fine food and drink.
Berry hosts many guesthouses, motels and hotels for the discerning traveler as well.
Kangaroo Valley
Kangaroo Valley is in the northern region of the Shoalhaven area of New South Wales. Located between the regions of Shoalhaven and the Southern Highlands this valley has to be one of the most picturesque and charming areas in the state. The valley itself is a unique contrast of rolling hills and craggy peaks. Yes, there are kangaroos in the valley as well as other unusual animals that are indigenous. If one is lucky they will encounter wallabies, echidnas, vivid and colorful birdlife and wombats in their travels.
There are twenty some walking tracks in the area for visitors to explore. Some are winding and gentle paths, others are for the physically fit and are quite challenging. No matter which type of trail you take, they all have unconventional beauty as a common factor.
The Kangaroo Valley is a holiday treat whether one is staying a few hours, a few days or even weeks at a time. The unique beauty of the place is enough to keep any visitor content and willing to explore further into the secret places the valley fosters.
Some of the area attractions are:
The Hampden Bridge was built in 1898 and resembles a medieval castle. It is the oldest suspension bridge in Australia and is the Valley's most famous landmark and photographic site.
The Pioneer Farm is a museum that looks at the Valley's history. The buildings are original and house many old photos and artifacts which include machinery that was used by the district's pioneers.
The Orchid Images is the first organic orchid nursery in the country. There is a small fee to explore the nursery and see some unique and rare orchids that are housed there.
There are three historic churches in the area and many examples of fine old architecture as well. Visit the Barrengarry General Store and Post Office. It's a step back in time and the pies will make even the hearty weak. Visitors that give into a "˜sweet attack' may sit on the old veranda and enjoy their pie while taking in the wonderful view.
Australia's South Coast is one of the most majestic and scenic areas in New South Wales.
