Archive for the Category »New South Wales «

Sydney’s Popular Darling Harbour
Wednesday, March 09th, 2011 /

Darling Harbour is one of Sydney’s major attractions for tourists and locals alike. With its stunning harbour side location, dozens of gift shops and boutiques, restaurants and excellent conference and exhibition facilities, it’s little wonder that virtually everyone who visits or lives in Sydney goes to Darling Harbour.

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour wasn’t always what it is today. In fact, prior to 1988, it was a dismal, neglected industrial park with a haunted feeling to it. Back in the 19th century until well into the 20th century, Darling Harbour and neighbouring Pyrmont hummed with activity throughout a long period of manufacturing. Then, when the manufacturing industries moved away from the city, the factories and warehouses closed one by one until the massive brick buildings were finally left derelict.

As Australia’s Bicentennial approached, civic leaders lead by Premier Neville Wran decided it was time to reinvigorate Darling Harbour for a new era and it was formally re-opened just in time for the 1988 celebrations. Then, when Sydney prepared to host the 2000 Olympic Games, a further $1.5 billion was poured into Darling Harbour. This massive influx of funds is what made Darling Harbour what it is today.

You don’t need a reason to enjoy Darling Harbour. On a warm spring day, there’s nothing more enjoyable than taking a stroll across Pyrmont Bridge and then along the long promenade that stretches along the waterside in front of the development. If you’re feeling hungry, there are dozens of cafes, restaurants and take-out stalls to choose from. It’s a great place to bring the whole family. The kids love to take the miniature train tour and, for a big day out, there’s the Sydney Aquarium, one of the world’s largest, the IMAX theatre and the fascinating National Maritime and Powerhouse Museums.

Powerhouse Museum

There are so many things to do and see in Darling Harbour, many Sydney residents return again and again and do something different every time. If you’ve taken the kids to see the aquarium, you’ll want to bring them back again to see Sydney Wildlife World with its 6000 varieties of Australian wildlife. Then, for a night on the town without the children, you can enjoy the spectacle of Star City Casino. Inside the casino, Sydney’s Lyric Theatre and Star Theatre are two of Sydney’s premier entertainment venues.

Back outside, you can enjoy a ride on the Sydney monorail and get a bird’s eye view of Sydney or you can see the city from a dolphin’s perspective aboard a Sydney Harbour cruise. Then again, if you feel you need a bit of peace and tranquillity, a visit to the beautiful Chinese Garden of Friendship, with its wonderful gardens, lakes and waterfalls is sure to put your mind and spirit at ease.

All of these things and more are at your fingertips at Darling Harbour. It’s no wonder so many people choose to stay at a Darling Harbour accommodation when they visit Sydney. There’s no better place to begin your day, end your day or enjoy your day than Darling Harbour.

Category: Sydney  Tags: , ,  One Comment
The magical Kangaroo Valley
Friday, March 04th, 2011 /

Kangaroo Valley is a magical area located less than 100 miles (160km) from Sydney. The village of Kangaroo Valley, with a population of just 360, is a National Trust listed village and the valley itself is often cited as "the most beautiful valley in all of Australia." Many people who have visited the region argue that this is an understatement, believing it to be one of the most beautiful valleys in the world. The only way to judge for yourself is to book into a unique Kangaroo Valley accommodation and experience it firsthand.

Kangaroo Valley

Whether you approach Kangaroo Valley from Canberra or Sydney, the drive takes only 2 hours and much of that is through beautiful rolling hills. It can truly be said of this valley that "getting there is half the fun" and often travellers find that the drive takes much longer because they make so many stops along the way. Once you get there, you are treated with a taste of old Australia before you even enter the town when you cross the historical Hampden Bridge, a beautiful sandstone bridge built in 1898. This suspension bridge is the oldest surviving bridge of its kind in Australia.

Hampden Bridge

Kangaroo Valley’s beauty has been appreciated ever since the first settlers discovered it in the 19th century. Unlike other areas which were exploited for their natural resources, it was the rich, fertile soil of Kangaroo Valley that attracted the early settlers. Surveyor/explorer George Evans, who made the first European discovery of the valley in 1812 commented that "no painter could beautify" the landscape he viewed from atop Mt Tapatallee. It was perfect as it was. The aborigines, who lived in and around the valley for over 20,000 years, hold it in the highest esteem, viewing it as an important spiritual and healing centre.

Although they are few in number, Kangaroo Valley arguably has more creative and artistic local residents per capita than anyplace else in Australia. Their artistic and environmental sensitivities make the village one of the most beautiful in the country. It seems to fit in perfectly with the landscape and although small, visitors can spend days exploring the galleries, gift shops and restaurants within the village itself. One popular spot on "the other side of the bridge" is the Old Barrengarry Store, which enjoys legendary status for its range of sweet and savoury pies. In the village itself, be prepared for a treat as you explore the antique shops, the galleries and the boutiques before settling down to a gourmet meal.

Of course, you won’t want to stay indoors too much when you’re in Kangaroo Valley. The scenery is simply too spectacular. Bush walking is as popular today as it was with the aborigines 20,000 years ago. Remarkably, you can literally follow in their footsteps, because many of their trails remain. There is an abundance of wildlife in the valley and on the surrounding slopes. The locals only ask that you tread lightly and treat their unspoiled paradise with the respect it deserves. You won’t need to be reminded, though. There’s something about Kangaroo Valley that makes you want it to remain exactly as it is forever.

Category: South Coast  Tags:  Leave a Comment
Exploring the popular Jenolan Caves in the Blue Mountains
Friday, March 04th, 2011 /

Jenolan Caves, situated at the Western end of the Blue Mountains in Jenolan National Forest, is one of Australia’s most popular country destinations. Over a quarter of a million visitors visit the caves each year to marvel at their wonders and explore the many caves that are open to the public.

Jenolan Caves

The extensive and as yet still not fully discovered network of Jenolan caves is what is known as "Karst Caves." These limestone caves are formed over millions of years as water soluble limestone is dissolved away from surrounding insoluble rocks. The result is a spectacular labyrinth punctuated by stalagmites and stalactites. The early aborigines dubbed them "Binoomea" or dark places and did not explore them. The first European credited with exploring the interiors of the caves was James Whalan, who first entered them in 1838. However, James McKeown, an ex-convict, is widely recognized as having preceded Whalan. McKeown was not as interested in exploring the caves as he was in using them as a hideout, though, so Whalan’s credit is deserved.

Other explorers followed Whalan and his group and by the 1860s, several major caves had been discovered. Word spread and the Jenolan Caves became a tourist destination. The first tourists treated the caves with little respect and evidence of their vandalism remains to this day. Fortunately, it was made illegal to remove any material from the caves in 1872, so the damage has remained minimal. John Lucas, a local member of Parliament, is credited with this accomplishment and the Lucas Cave has been named in his honour.

Although there is no public transportation system to and from the Jenolan Caves, there are regular bus services from Katoomba in the Blue Mountains as well as tours from Sydney. Getting to the caves by road is as enjoyable as visiting the caves themselves as you pass through the spectacular Blue Mountains and wind your way down beautiful country roads on the hour long journey from Katoomba. Once there, you can take any of the regular guided tours of the caves that are held each day. After you have finished exploring, you can buy souvenirs and gifts at the "Things Jenolan" gift shop inside Caves House, the only hotel at the site.

Caves House

There are places to eat at Jenolan Caves, but many visitors prefer to use the many picnic and barbeque facilities that have been set up around the parking lots. Those who prefer dining in style do so in grand style at Jenolan Caves House. This magnificent, rambling structure was rebuilt in 1898 after the original Caves House was destroyed by fire.

Jenolan Caves House is the closest Jenolan Caves accommodation to the park and is a landmark in its own right, but others can be found in nearby Oberon and nearby Jenolan Cabins, perched on a hill with breathtaking 360 degree views is another popular place to stay. If you wish to stay anywhere near Jenolan Caves, it is best to book your room well in advance, because there are few accommodations in the area and they fill up fast, especially during the peak seasons.

Category: Blue Mountains  Tags:  Leave a Comment
The massively popular Byron Bay
Friday, February 25th, 2011 /

The town of Byron Bay, Australia’s easternmost town on the far north coast of New South Wales, is anything but a big city. The town itself has a permanent population of only about five thousand and the entire shire has a permanent population of only around 30,000. While Byron Bay locals may be small in number, they are big on hospitality, hosting over 1.5 million visitors per year.

Byron Bay

The massive popularity of Byron Bay is a fairly recent phenomenon. Until the late 60s, it was just a peaceful country town whose only claim to fame was as the largest producer of dairy products in the Southern Hemisphere. Back then, the only tourists were the surfers who came there to ride the "secret spot" known only as The Pass. The Pass didn’t remain a secret for very long, though and when the Flower Children heard about Byron Bay from the Soul Surfers who discovered it, it quickly developed into a haven for the seventies’ alternative lifestyle community.

These enterprising new arrivals started many of Byron Bay’s first tourist oriented businesses. They opened surf shops, gift shops, galleries, arts and crafts shops, cafes and, most importantly, backpackers’ resorts. Word spread about Byron Bay largely by word of mouth and by the early eighties, it was on every young globetrotter’s "must see" list. Attracted by the laid-back lifestyle, the spectacular beaches and the magnificent surrounding countryside, they came in droves.

1990 marked a turning point and challenge for Byron Bay. That was the year the first "BluesFest" music festival took place at the Arts Factory. Even the organizers of the event had no idea how popular it would become. It quickly outgrew its original venue, but continues to this day, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.

BluesFest

Byron Bay’s new-found prosperity led to further development, but it has always been kept in check by the locals’ fierce determination to keep it from becoming another highrise resort town like Surfers Paradise. Their efforts have largely paid off and to this day, Byron Bay somehow manages to retain its unique atmosphere and yet still cater to the millions of visitors who flock there every year.

Byron Shire is more than you see from Lawson or Jonson Streets, the main streets in town and the centres of the tourist activities. Take a stroll out to the world famous Byron Bay Lighthouse and, after you’ve feasted your eyes on the glittering Tasman Sea from Australia’s easternmost tip, turn around and look to the verdant hills behind the city. Tucked away in the hills are many fascinating towns and villages, all of which can be easily visited by car or shuttle bus.

Main street in Byron Bay

Although Byron Bay also caters to families and well-heeled travellers looking for luxury resorts and five star cuisine, it still retains the best of its alternative lifestyle appeal. Whether you choose a backpackers lodge or a luxurious resort as your Byron Bay accommodation, it will be designed with your comfort and minimal environmental impact in mind. The grounds will be beautifully landscaped with native flora and the atmosphere will be wonderfully relaxing. Byron Bay is almost synonymous with laid back, so soak it up as long as you can.

Category: Far North Coast NSW  Tags: , , ,  One Comment
Unforgettable Kiama less than two hours from the heart of Sydney
Wednesday, February 16th, 2011 /

Less than two hours by car from the heart of Sydney is the popular tourist resort town of Kiama. Often referred to as the "Gateway to the South Coast," many visitors to the region choose a Kiama accommodation as their "base of operations." From here, all the sights and attractions of the South Coast are easily accessible and the hospitality of the locals is legendary.

Kiama Lighthouse

Kiama is the perfect place to stay for an extended South Coast holiday because it is both big enough to have all the amenities you need yet small enough to feel like you’ve really gotten away from the city. In this town of 20,000 residents, you won’t have to go without any of the luxuries you’re used to, yet you can find a quiet beach or walking trail almost within walking distance of the main part of town. If you’re interested in Australian history, there’s plenty of that in Kiama, too – and it’s all within easy reach.

Kiama Terrace is a good example of how Kiama mixes history with the modern world. Originally built in the late 19th century as housing for quarry workers, this row of weatherboard cottages has been fully restored and now houses souvenir shops, crafts galleries, cafes and other fascinating shops in a lovely, tree-shaded setting.

Kiama Blowhole

Kiama is proud of its heritage and puts it on display at the Pilot’s Cottage Museum, on Blowhole Point. The "Blowhole" after which Blowhole Point is named, is Kiama’s oldest and most internationally famous landmark. It was first recorded in 1793 by George Bass, who saw it in action from the deck of his whaling boat. When an incoming tide combines with a fair-sized swell, water rushes into an underground cave. The surge of water compresses the air inside the cave and forces a huge plume of water and air skyward from the only available opening. There are other blowholes around the world, but the Kiama Blowhole is the largest and most spectacular.

If you can, try to arrange your visit to Kiama around the 3rd Sunday of any month. This is when the monthly Kiama Seaside Market is held in a park just above Black Beach, in the centre of Kiama. Local artists and artisans come to the Market every month to display their wares and other stallholders sell antiques, odds and ends and even delicious homemade preserves, baked goods and other treats. The Kiama Seaside Market is now so well known that many families make it a point to come to Kiama once a month just to spend a day wandering through the stalls and enjoying the atmosphere.

While Kiama may be the Gateway to the South Coast, many visitors never pass through the "gates" once they reach Kiama. It’s easy to find more than enough attractions within the city itself to keep you occupied for a long weekend. When you’re not shopping or dining out, you can explore the beaches or take a leisurely bike ride or walk on one of the many tracks and trails within and around the city. In order to appreciate it all, you simply have to go there and experience it yourself!

Category: South Coast  Tags:  Leave a Comment
Nelson Bay – the unsung secret of New South Wales
Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010 /

Nelson BayNelson Bay, NSW is one of the unsung secrets that allot of tourist seems to know about. If you’re looking for a fun vacation laced with affordable accommodation, warm locales and a number of other different aquatic activities to engage in, then Nelson Bay, NSW is your superlative location. Located in Port Stephens, Nelson Bay offers miles and miles of calm coastal beaches, sky blue water and a rich, colourful local history. Every year, many tourists visit Nelson Bay, NSW to enjoy its many delights. Few people every leave unsatisfied.

It’s hard deciding what the strongest selling point Nelson Bay, NSW is. Its marine offerings are without doubt impressive. There is great surfing action for people who want to enjoy the thrill of riding the waves. If you’re more of a viewer than a spectator, it is possible to go dolphin watching out in the waters or visit some of the aquatic reserves within the region. You may also go canoeing and fishing with friends.

With calm waves against the shore, Nelson Bay has a number of the safest beaches in the world. However, most of the tourists to Nelson Bay inevitably end up taking of their shoes and diving into the cooling waters of the bay. The coastline of Nelson Bay is full of beautiful marine wildlife which makes it the perfect location for scuba diving and snorkelling. Regions such as Looking Glass are firm favourites because of the spectacular view of the local marine wildlife that it provides.

Tomaree National ParkAside from enjoying the countless aquatic pleasures that Nelson Bay provides, there are other events and things to do. Tourists can for instance go walking along the paths of Tomaree National park which offers many amazing views. They may also get memorable views by visiting the Gan Gan lookout.

Nelson Bay, NSW has several outstanding architectural buildings reflecting its evolution over the years. One of these is the Nelson Head Lighthouse. Erected in 1872 and presently still active, the lighthouse is among the stronger visitor attractions in the region. Just like a few of the lookouts within the region, visitors in the Nelson head lighthouse can enjoy beautiful views from the top of the tower.

Like most towns, Nelson bay has its own share of festivals and traditions. You will get an even better experience out of your vacation by scheduling your trip for any one of these. A hugely popular event is the ‘Festival of Whales’ which is held annually to mark the seasonal migration of whales. During the period, you’ll be able to view art displays, enjoy local music and engage in some whale watching.

When all is said and done, Nelson Bay, NSW is a perfect spot for anyone who is looking for the perfect holiday with some splashing in mind. You’ll be able to find and reserve suitable Nelson Bay accommodation options with little or no difficulty depending on what your preferences are. The legend of Nelson Bay is a constantly repeated song. Don’t just listen to it. Take a visit to the town and join in the global troupe.

Category: North Coast NSW  Tags: , ,  Leave a Comment
Wollongong & Grand Pacific Drive
Saturday, November 20th, 2010 /

Wollongong is NSW 3rd largest City and only 1 hour south of Sydney CBD and international airport and only 3 hours drive north east of the nations capital Canberra. Located in a narrow coastal strip Wollongong is home to over 200,000 residents, beautiful landscapes and one of Australia’s finest universities the University of Wollongong.

Wollongong is located 80 kilometres south of Sydney on a narrow coastal strip bordered by the Royal National Park to the north, Lake Illawarra to the south, the Tasman Sea to the east and the Illawarra Escarpment to the west.  Wollongong enjoys a magnificent natural environment from rainforests to spectacular sea cliffs and unspoilt beaches.

If you are a visitor, you want to know that you have the most upto date information and where better to get it from than Wollongong’s official tourism Website.  Giving you everything you need to know about accommodation, restaurants, recreation activities  and other features of our city. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy Wollongong’s great shopping facilities and the many recreational activities on offer, from our 17 patrolled beaches, parks and cycleways to cultural experiences such as the Nan Tien Temple and Wollongong Science Centre.

Grand Pacific Drive encompasses 140km of some of NSW most spectacular scenery and coastline. From the Royal National Park (world’s second oldest) to Wollongong and beyond, the route takes you through coastal rainforests, spectacular driving scenery, coastal villages, the bustling coastal city of Wollongong, and beautiful coastal towns of Shellharbour and Kiama. The drive ends in the spectacular Shoalhaven region and from here you can experience the Southern Highlands, greater South Coast and Canberra!

Once you get to Wollongong you won’t know where to start with all the attractions available to you!

Whether you are here on a short break or an extended visit there certainly won’t be a shortage of thing to do:

  • The Royal National Park is the second oldest national park in the world, it begins and is apart of our scenic Grand Pacific Drive. 
  • After some high impact adventure and fun why not try hang gliding or sky diving with Skydive the Beach, perhaps even spend the day at Jamberoo Action Park NSW largest water theme park.
  • Wollongong is gaining an international reputation for its excellence in the arts and cultural activities. Home to the biggest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, The Nan Tien Temple. This is a must see in the Illawarra. Along with other activities such as our Illawarra Museum, City Art Gallery or come in time for one of our many festivals.
  • Bald Hill Lookout will give you outstanding views of the Illawarra and its escarpment, spend some time exploring the atmosphere before heading down the cliff hugging roads hanging above the ocean. See for yourself how the mountains meet the sea. 
  • The benefits of Wollongong’s cultural mix are reflected in the excellent collection of restaurants and cafés, all offering a high standard of service and cuisine. First class seafood at Lagoon Seafood Restaurant & Harbourfront Restaurant. For specialty cafe’s visit Diggies North Kiosk, Levendi or Austi Beach Cafe. Coming with the family? Dine at Bomborra Seafood, Oscars at Towradgi Beach Hotel, Hogs Breath Cafe or Outback Steakhouse.
  • The Wollongong coastline offers 17 sparkling surf beaches that are patrolled by lifesavers from September to April. All beaches are in easy walking distance from shops, hotels and clubs. Enjoy over 60 kilometres of easy bicycle/walkway as you make your way from Bulli Beach in the north to Lake Illawarra in the south.

Category: South Coast  Leave a Comment
Pokolbin Hunter Valley is a great choice for a sort break away
Thursday, August 12th, 2010 /

Hunter Valley Gardens Pokolbin is located in the Lower Hunter Valley wine region in New South Wales Australia, an area famed for its vintners. Pokolbin is not a town but a rural area found between the towns of Cessnock and Branxton. Because of its famed wineries and vineyards, it is a popular destination for wine lovers. It attracts other holiday makers with its day spas, resorts and local art.

Wine tourism is the Hunter Valley’s mainstay and this brings numbers of people the area. Based here are the large multinational wine companies, small home vintners and everything in between. The countryside is primarily used for the growing of grapevines. Shiraz and Semillion predominate but one will also find Chardonay, Cabernet, Sauvignon and even a little Pinot Noir.

Vintage Hunter Wine and Visitor Centre is the nerve centre of the area’s wine tourism. It can be found at 455 Wine Country drive and one finds directions here to restaurants, Pokolbin hotels, resorts and public events. Of course, one can also find a directory and maps to the wineries and cellars. Some of those located in the Valley are Vinden Estate Wines, Thalgora Estate, Blueberry Hill Vineyard, Tyrrell’s Wines and Morgan Family Wine Growers.

Pokolbin Village is the heart of the Valley and serves as a starting point from which to explore the wine country. It is at the centre of Pokolbin and is located so that the area wineries can be reached by foot. Pokolbin Village is a resort designed like a rustic town, and has spacious grounds amidst which suites, villas and even a homestead provide lodging for extended stays. The staff will aid visitors in the arrangement of winery visits and can inform them of area events and festivals.

One may also visit or stay at the Hunter Valley Gardens. This is the creation of award-winning landscapers Bill and Imelda Roche. Twelve themed gardens lie upon over 25 hectares of land. Vacationers may stay at the Mercure Resort and participate in the varied events that are offered besides the daily garden tours.

Here can be visited the Rose Garden, a corkscrew patterned garden of over 8,000 roses of more than 150 kinds. Also the Sunken Garden, made to appear like a sunken grotto beneath a large waterfall and shaped around a pond the size of five Olympic swimming pools and planted with a variety of evergreen and deciduous trees. The Chinese Garden and the Oriental Garden feature Chinese, Korean and Japanese motifs such as moss covered rocks, bamboo stands, gardens of raked gravel, pagodas amidst gingko trees and lily covered lakes stocked with Asian fish.

Both a State Forest and a National Park, Barrington Tops allows visitors to partake of nature pursuits. Huge cliffs, rain forest and fishing streams proliferate. This World Heritage site rests atop a twenty-five kilometre plateau and is home to a great variety of flora and fauna, some of it very rare. Here one can engage in canoeing, kayaking, cycling and hiking on trails and mountains, bushwalking and camping.

Category: Hunter Valley  Tags: , ,  Leave a Comment
Step back in history in Newcastle Australia
Tuesday, August 03rd, 2010 /

In New South Wales, Australia, one city remembers its links to early European settlements and the important role convicts played in its construction. Newcastle embraces connections to the past as well as its ongoing relationship with the sea that lashes its shores. Today, visitors come to be wowed by past and present attractions.

The Lock Up The Lock-Up presents a bleak view of past penal life with its tiny cells. Tourists may come away feeling saddened for the people imprisoned here, knowing that many suffered simply for the courage to voice an opinion. Tour museum relics and displays with your family or as part of a school group. Take the time to view art by many locals whose work is presented in bright contrast to their sad surroundings.

Christ Church Cathedral has shown its resilience against war and an earthquake, standing tall today for visitors to admire its grace and beauty. Many tall stained glass windows were designed and created by famous Pre-Raphaelite painters from England. This sacred building maintains a bright aspect, along with exquisite marble flooring. Materials came from Australia and Italy, the latter in particular when earthquake repairs were required.

No one knows where the Nobbys gets its name, but this oddly-dubbed island performs a serious role. While welcoming vessels into Newcastle Harbour, it also offers the protection of a lighthouse. Many ships have been wrecked along this coast and numerous lives lost. The most recent wreck of merely a few years ago ended well with the ship re-floating and no lives lost. Guides will show the curious resting places of many unfortunate vessels.

At Lee Wharf on Hunter River enjoy active displays run by the Maritime Centre. Gain a better understanding of important sea-based industry to the people of Newcastle since the city first became official around 150 years ago. Bogey Hole marks the spot of an odd, sometimes dangerous pass time. Residents like to jump into this busy bathing hole from the cliffs above, or risk the waves which rush in during a storm, holding onto chains or getting washed out to sea. During good weather, safely soak up some sun without getting sand in your bathing suit.

Fort Scratchley displays relics from its 1870s origins and action during the Second World War. Guns fired here to defend the city over sixty years ago remain for the perusal of interested visitors. Guide yourself throughout the museum or join a tour, but make sure you go up top. A wide view over the harbour and sea may afford a glimpse of whales or dolphins passing through.

Enjoy all kinds of snacks and cuisine during a wander along the city streets. Precincts combine art galleries, pubs, cafes and restaurants serving Greek, Italian and more. The pubs get pretty busy along here, so if you hope to meet other tourists like yourself, this could be the place to do it.

Stay on a severe budget with backpacker accommodation or bring your young family to a resort. Newcastle Hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts will locate tourists in the city or suburbs. All kinds of lodgings wait for your booking. Rent an apartment with friends helping to cover the cost. Visit a spa for some self-care. Opt for the tranquility of a vineyard retreat.

Category: Central Coast  Tags: ,  Leave a Comment
Take a few days off in Mollymook on the NSW South Coast
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010 /

Mollymook Beach Pirates, aborigines and white settlers all found Mollymook idyllic in nature. Blessed with a treasure trove of temperate weather, mysterious caves and gleaming beaches, this little town located along the New South Wales coast is just waiting to be discovered by the individual or family looking for fun and adventure in a hedonistic setting.

Those afraid that such a place will be hidden too far off the beaten path will be pleased to discover that this bit of paradise is actually quite handily located almost equidistant from Sydney and Canberra a short and scenic three hour road trip. It is in the perfect spot to serve as a short get a way or as a longer family vacation.

While its is based around tourism retail and the lodging income, it creates no problem as anything one might need is available only five short minutes away in Ulladulla.

The beaches of Mollymook have already been discovered by those connoisseurs of great water, surfers. Each year sponsored festivals, contests and surfing competitions draw surfers from all over to take part. These clean and safe beaches also draw swimmers of all kinds as well as those less inclined to leave their comfy beach lounges preferring to enjoy to view and the sun.

They take care of their visitors with a plethora of Mollymook beach accommodation that take in preferences from luxurious, with 5 star hotels, to those who prefer to ‘rough it’ in the modern campgrounds available in the area. They haven’t forgotten the gustatory pleasures of a vacation either, providing familiar fast food, hearty buffets and even opulent dining experiences for those looking for an elegant night after an adventurous day.

The town enjoys the ease of such amazing neighbors as Morton National Park, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and striking foliage and Pigeon House Mountain and Murramarang. These parks offer adventure, discovery and an unmatched opportunity to experience the land as it once was. Both parks offer bushwalking with choices for those who need an easier trail and for those who want a chance to explore caves, coal mines and climbing the cliffs.

It was Captain Cook who stepped onto the shores here in 1770 where he discovered the area already inhabited by Aborigines and reported that the natives "appeared to be of a black or very dark colour". Later the local caves and artifacts that have been discovered proved that, indeed, it had been called home by a number of diverse Aboriginal groups before the white settlers arrived in 1859. The name itself seems to have come from a local species of albatross called the ‘mollymawk’. There was also a community house built by these settlers known as the "Molly Moke", all of which could be differing spellings that have wound up today as "Mollymook".

This is a ‘don’t miss’ destination for everyone of any age. The beautiful drive alone, a ribbon of clear road stretching between breathtaking cliffs and sparkling water calls you to a different place, a different time, a different adventure. Next time you plan your family vacation, take a look at Mollymook.

Category: South Coast  Tags: ,  Leave a Comment
« Previous Entries
Next Entries »