Daytripper must-do guide for Forest Reach locals
Looking for adventure? Keen on a leisurely hour or so out on the open road before launching into some memorable family fun? Countless weekend capers await the day-tripper headed out from Forest Reach.
If it’s natural wonders you seek, within a short drive you’ll find plenty of scenic coastland outcrops and bushland trails for walking and mountain biking.
On another day you might enjoy the boutique browsing in coastal and country townships nearby for that unique something-special you’ve been looking for.
Here’s our top day-tripping picks north, south, east and west from Forest Reach.
1. North for a walk and pier jumping by Bundeena beach
Image Courtesy: Visit NSW
The township of Bundeena is an hour north through one of Australia’s most picturesque twisty, turny, coastal roads through the Dharawal National Park. As you make your way down to the ocean, you’ll find this hamlet nestled around a calm cove whose beach is a favourite for weekend wanderlust.
Your kids will squeal with delight as they jump from the nearby pier into the fresh blue of the harbour.
After some deluxe café fish and chips enjoyed aside the playground and leafy park that surrounds the bay, perhaps a walk is in order. The famous Wedding Cake Rock is a 1.5hr (6km) round trip from Bundeena along the easy Coastal Trail. This gleaming white limestone outcrop is worth the walk to end a memorable day out.
2. South to Kiama for boutique browsing and the Blowhole
Image Courtesy: Visit NSW
Just 30 mins south of Forest Reach is the beautiful town of Kiama. Kiama offers just the kind of meandering day you’d be hoping for to soak in the sunshine of the beautiful south coast.
The big attraction is the Kiama Blowhole which begins your day with a burst of excitement. As you and kids try to predict when the waves will surge and spout through the rock opening, you’ll relish the anticipation and smiles of satisfaction that follow.
Strolling back toward the township past the towering Norfolk pines, there’s a picture-perfect moment to be enjoyed by the whitewashed walls of Kiama Lighthouse. Stop into the Pilot’s Cottage Museum and step back in time to learn about the local shipping heritage.
It’s easy to take your time for a stroll past the boutique shops and ever popular cafés. Penny Whistlers is among the most popular of stops, with its view overlooking Black Beach a showstopper.
3. East to Lake Illawarra for a sea fairing paradise
On the banks of Lake Illawarra, just 20 minutes from Forest Reach, your day of adventure begins at Port Kembla Lookout. It’s perched on the edge of the 37 km shoreline of this saltwater lake and Port Kembla Harbour. Be sure to keep an eye out for the majestic black swans and pelicans that make their home here.
The Lake is a haven for lovers of water sports. Every weekend you’ll see boats and kayaks out and about. Take your fishing rod too. Dusky flathead and surf bream are a common catch.
4. West up to the Highlands of Moss Vale and Bowral for bush and beyond
Another meandering 1 hours’ drive up through the green escarpment to the west is the Southern Highlands. First stop is the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk in Budderoo National Park. The 1.5km treetop, rainforest canopy walk stands 20-30 metres above the ground. An experience to remember. The kids will get a thrill out of the Zipline tour. It’s a little bit scary and a lot beautiful.
Eco-wilderness adventures continue a short drive away to the magnificent Fitzroy Falls. You’ll have to take a moment to catch your breath as you gaze upon the 80m high waterfall.
Onwards you drive to the historic country township of Moss Vale, and then to Bowral, the heart of the Southern Highlands community. Bowral is a boutique shoppers paradise with luxury boutiques and welcoming country charm around every corner.
A local favourite is Dirty Janes, a 1600 sqm maze of antiques, rustic furniture, and special things. It’s hard to know where to look first and easy to get lost in the hunt for the perfect gift.
A place where family memories are made
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