The Solo Travellers Guide to Wollongong
Travelling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, but it can also be filled with disagreements, opinions and a whole lot of eye-rolling. If you are someone who has discovered the self-satisfying joys of travelling as a party of one, the City of Wollongong would love to host your next adventure.
Imagine coming and going as you please, eating when you feel like it, staying out until you you’ve indulged all your exploratory inclinations. Luxurious right?
Here are our best tips for tackling the great seaside City of Wollongong when travelling solo.
Accommodation by the Sea
Part of our city’s appeal is its prime position by the sea and proximity to so many, naturally beautiful places. Take advantage of our stunning coastline by booking yourself a room with a view or one that will leave you only a few steps from our magnificent beaches. Here are a few that might be worth taking a look at:
Breakfast with a Side of Ocean
If you are staying nearby, there is no better way to start the day than a walk along the picturesque shoreline on your way to an exquisite breakfast.
Even though Wollongong is home to many fantastic cafes and breakfast spots, the centrally located, Aqua Restaurant on Cliff Road looks out over the ocean and is a personal favourite of mine. I’m just going to tell you now, it’s all about the Breakfast Bruschetta. You’re welcome.
Nan Tien Temple
Just 10 minutes drive south of Wollongong, Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere, welcomes visitors from all walks of life. With beautiful architecture and an abundance of culture, Nan Tien Temple is a fantastic place to enjoy Buddist festivals, savour vegetarian cuisine, or stroll around the grounds and soak up the calming atmosphere.
Nan Tien also offer retreats spanning from one to several days, including a Short-Term Monastic Retreat that gives a 7-day experience into a traditional Monastic lifestyle.
What could be more zen than that?
Get your Dumpling on
When you have time to relax and really appreciate your dining experience, what sounds more delightful than the intoxicating scent of freshly brewed specialty teas and dumplings made to order? Add a good book, and I’m moving in!
Ziggy’s House of Nomms is open 7 days on Keira street and boasts a cozy, unique atmosphere that will get your creative juices flowing and leave you committed to try every type of delightful tea on offer.
The Great Outdoors
If you fancy a bit of exercise and like a challenge, set out to conquer the Sublime Point Walking track which begins in Bulli Tops and ends in a spectacular view overlooking Wollongong.
Trek through the coastal rainforest hidden within the Illawarra escarpment and test yourself against the trials of this Grade 4 hike through National Parklands.
Need something a little less labour-intensive? Head north and take a drive along the famous Sea Cliff Bridge before making your way up to Stanwell Tops for a breath-taking look at the south coast in all its glory. If you can beat the midday tourist rush, this little slice of heaven can serve as an excellent thinking spot, taking in the sights and watching the Sydney Hang Gliders. You might even be tempted to give it a try!
Zoë Wood is an international travel writer from the local Illawarra area. Contact her here: Facebook – Instagram – Email