Located less than two hours south of Sydney, the scenic drive to “The Gong” should whet even a cynic’s appetite for a city that once had a reputation as nothing more than smog and steelworks. Now a thriving centre for shopping, beach culture and spectacular views, Wollongong also plays host to one of the largest universities in Australia. Perfect for a weekend away, find out why this charming destination was Captain Cook’s first choice to land in 1770 and is a great starting point to discover the Illawara region.

Where to Stay
Students are spoiled for choice when it comes to backpackers’ accommodation, and all come with mixed reviews. If really strapped for cash, try the YHA which is just a five-minute walk to the plethora of retailers located at Wollongong Central.
For those with extra wallet-weight, why not pay Rydges Central City Wollongong a visit? This simple yet sleek hotel comes complete with in-room mini-bar, 24-hour reception and a prime location neighbouring popular local watering hole, The Grand Hotel.
But if accommodation away from the urban buzz is more your style, spend an unforgettable night at the southern hemisphere’s largest Buddhist temple, Nan Tien Temple Pilgrim Lodge. Amidst the temple’s gardens, guests can join in for chanting, meditation or have a cuppa at The Dew Drop Inn Tea House. With rooms starting around $90, inner peace comes at an affordable price.

What to Do
The city centre offers a hub of educational experiences, starting with a bit of town history at the Illawarra Museum, or for something more contemporary the Wollongong City Gallery features Aboriginal and Illawarra colonial artworks. To keep kids’ minds active, as well as adults, experience science shows and interactive exhibitions at FutureWorld or the Science Centre & Planetarium. Alternatively, if you’re kiddie-free for the weekend, try your hand at brewing beer at U-Brew It Wollongong. Best of all, you get to sample your own handiwork.
 If you want to get out of the city, take advantage of Wollongong’s stunning beaches and take a relaxing dip at the family-friendly and easily accessed Wollongong City Beach or North Beach. To avoid the crowds and catch a wave, try Coledale beach where you can also camp overnight. For those seeking more of an adrenaline rush, jump headfirst into North Beach’s skydiving deals and get a spectacular birds-eye-view of the coastal strip - the only beach skydive available in NSW. Further south, just out of Wollongong, the Illawara Fly Treetop Walk provides a unique way to discover the rainforest and picturesque panoramas of the Illawara escarpment.

When to Travel
Any time of year makes for a good trip to Wollongong, although the winter months can be a bit chilly with average temperatures under 20 degrees and, more importantly, are not suitable for lazy days at the beach. But don’t be too disappointed if that’s the only time you can go, there are other sources of entertainment such as the Shoalhaven Coast Winter Wine Festival, which takes places just south of the city in June.

Transport
Roughly 85 kilometres south of Sydney, taxis (approx $178, 13 33 00), shuttle services (approx $50 one-way, 02 4261 7393) and trains (approx $21 return, www.cityrail.info) all service the station. Free shuttle buses also circulate the city but the best option may be hiring a car to explore the beautiful coastline.