Top of the town - Wollongong

The escarpment towns and villages of Helensburgh, Otford, Darkes Forest and Stanwell Park have their own unique attractions. The Symbio Wildlife Gardens provide a fascinating insight into the habitats of over 100 species of animals, including a wide range of Australian wildlife. Many of which freely roam the grounds, providing plenty of scope for visitors to gain a real 'hands-on' experience.

The turn-off to Darkes Forest leads to diverse places of interest including a horse riding school, a greyhound breeding and training complex and Glenbernie Orchard. Many sightseers also avail themselves of the opportunity to visit the nearby catchment area with its major repository of Aboriginal sites. The catchment is a haven for many species of wildlife, as well as the extremely rare white waratah.

Sublime Point affords one of the best known views of the Wollongong region. Apart from the lookout, there is an excellent choice of restaurants perched high on the escarpment, each offering a unique view of the metropolis below.
Anyone who travels the coast road will appreciate why this spectacular stretch of road is often featured on national television. Part of Lawrence Hargrave Drive, the road has a toehold cut into the cliff face, passing over sites where coal mines once burrowed into the mountain and ships loaded cargo from jetties beneath the cliffs.