Local Attractions
The following are just some of the touring options available in and around Stanwell Tops, providing delegates and their families with a unique experience that will create fond, lasting memories.
Bald Hill Lookout
Travel from Sydney through the Royal National Park, the world’s second oldest national park, to one of the most spectacular lookouts on the Grand Pacific Drive. The Bald Hill Lookout provides your first glimpse of the amazing and scenic drive ahead of you to Wollongong. Soak up the atmosphere, keep an eye out for hang gliders and visit the memorial cairn dedicated to Lawrence Hargrave, an Australian pioneer of flight in the early part of the 20th century.
Beer tasting at the Illawarra Brewery
Illawarra Brewery is the first brewery in the history of the Illawarra and it is most picturesque, with spectacular ocean views from its city foreshore location in Wollongong. Enjoy a tour of the micro-brewery before sampling some of their 10 local beers – ranging from bitter brews to sweet, fruity concoctions.
A unique walk amongst the trees
Take in the fantastic views over the rainforest and out to the ocean on the tree top walk at Illawarra Fly. This 1,500-metre walk through beautiful temperate rainforest includes a 500-metre long section nestled in the treetop canopy up to 30 metres above the ground. The walkway also features two cantilevered arms – designed to hold the weight of 800 wombats! – that sway and take you to the edge of the forest. With only four steel canopy walks in the world – all located in Australia – this is truly a unique Australian experience.
Nan Tien Temple
Meet the Reverends during your personalised tour of the biggest Buddhist temple in the southern hemisphere. Nan Tien Temple hosts a popular program of retreats, meditation classes and displays for visitors, is home to a modern hotel and museum, and acts as an important centre for bridging different cultures.
Kiama Terraces and Blowhole
South of Wollongong, the charming seaside resort of Kiama boasts the only weatherboard terraces in NSW. Built in 1886 for the quarry workers’ families, they have been lovingly restored and converted into shops selling antiques, books, souvenirs and crafts. A short walk away you’ll find Kiama’s most famous feature – the ‘Blowhole’, which shoots water skyward like a popped champagne cork and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Regional Attractions
Whether beaches, cities, mountains or wine country take their fancy, delegates can find delightful and memorable experiences – all within three hours or less from Sydney.
The Blue Mountains
Escape the city and absorb the spectacular scenery of this majestic World Heritage-listed area. Discover the Aboriginal legend of the Three Sisters – giant sandstone rock formations in the Jamison Valley. Take a cable car ride out over the valley, enjoy high tea in a quaint village café, shop for local arts and crafts or hike through the Australian bushland.
The Hawkesbury River
Fly in by sea plane from Sydney Harbour or take a drive north to the Hawkesbury River. The Hawkesbury is dotted with houseboats for day, weekend or longer rental to small groups and is a peaceful site to go swimming,camping or pottering around the river’s surrounding jettys.
Hunter Valley Wine Country
The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region. Take a tour of a large established winery or a smaller boutique vineyard with experts who will explain the winemaking process from vine to bottle. Savour awardwinning Hunter classics including Chardonnay, Semillon and Shiraz. Enjoy a delicious lunch, stroll through sun-kissed vineyards and learn why Hunter Valley wines receive worldwide acclaim.
NSW Central Coast
Just a step away from Sydney, the Central Coast offers outstanding natural beauty, award-winning attractions and an array of activities and accommodation options. Go swimming, surfing, fishing or sailing or simply relax at one of the waterfront cafés or restaurants.