Jump on your bike, buckle up your helmet, and get ready to explore Wollongong’s cycling playground. With a mix of heart-pounding climbs, smooth coastal stretches, and scenic routes that’ll leave you breathless (in the best way), Wollongong is a dream destination for cyclists.
Let’s hit the road and explore the best routes that Wollongong has to offer!
‘Lakeside Classic’ (Lake Illawarra) | 43.5km | 140m elevation
Looking for a flat, family-friendly ride packed with scenic views and a touch of adventure? The Lake Illawarra loop has you covered!
Kick things off with a picnic at Reddall Park, then cruise over Windang Bridge, hugging the lake’s northern side on a smooth shared path until you hit Fred Finch Park. From there, it’s time to navigate a slightly trickier stretch with two large roundabouts and a section running parallel to the freeway – consider it a mini challenge!
As the cycle path veers back towards the lake along Kanahooka Road, you’ll be treated to stunning waterside views on a top-notch shared path. The adventure continues through quieter roads and residential streets before reconnecting with the lake’s southern edge.
Finish strong with a peaceful, picturesque ride along the shoreline, circling back to where you started. It’s a ride that’s as fun as it is scenic.
‘Water Baby’ (Thirroul-North Wollongong) | 16km | 70m elevation
Kickstart your ride with a coffee at the Thirroul Beach Pavilion, the perfect launchpad for this epic 16km shared path adventure. Soak up the jaw-dropping coastal vibes at Sandon Point – keep an eye out for surfers carving waves and maybe even a whale or two putting on a show!
The path hugs lovely beaches, rock pools, and cosy cafés all the way to Towradgi Surf Club. From here, choose your own adventure: stick to the smooth concrete path inland past Innovation Campus or take the scenic detour through Puckey’s Estate, with its gravel tracks and charming boardwalks.
Cruise into North Wollongong and the harbour for beachside dining galore or push on to complete the breathtaking Flagstaff Hill loop. Either way, this ride is an absolute coastal classic!
‘Surf & Turf’ (Wollongong-Jamberoo) | 105km | 1,115m elevation
Ready for a ride that’s as challenging as it is jaw-dropping? This epic journey takes you south from Wollongong, past the iconic steelworks, and onto the stunning coastal stretch of Port Kembla. Cruise over Windang Bridge and hug the eastern side of Lake Illawarra before a quick pit stop at Reddall Reserve’s handy water tap and public toilets. From there, it’s nothing but gorgeous views as you pedal through Barrack Point, Shellharbour, and the glistening new Shell Cove Marina.
The adventure ramps up as you push through Minnamurra, Kiama Downs, and into the postcard-perfect township of Kiama, complete with its charming harbour. Then, it’s time to swap the sea breeze for rolling hills and lush farmland as you ride through Jamberoo and up to Albion Park. On the return, embrace the tranquillity of Dapto and Avondale’s back roads, skirting the base of the escarpment before reconnecting with the Old Princes Highway near Figtree.
This ride is a true Illawarra masterpiece – bring your A-game and your sense of adventure!
‘Around the World’ (UCI Road World Champs highlights) | 77km | 1,285m elevation
Ready to ride like a champion? Relive the highlights of the 2022 UCI Road World Championships with this epic route! Kick things off at Helensburgh, where the road races began, before flying down to the iconic Bald Hill lookout. Feel the thrill as you cruise across the breathtaking Sea Cliff Bridge, then tackle the rolling hills through Wollongong’s charming northern suburbs.
Channel your inner pro with a tough-but-glorious climb (7.9km, 465m, 5.2% gradient) to the escarpment ridge. Catch your breath as you savour the views, then dive into a fast, technical descent down Mt Kembla toward the serene Nan Tien Temple. From there, it’s back to business with punchy climbs that lead to Wollongong’s lush Botanic Garden and the University of Wollongong.
But the real test? The infamous Ramah Avenue – a 1.1km, 119m climb at a leg-burning 7.7% gradient average. Push through suburban streets, keeping an eye out for local schools and shops, before looping back to the ultimate finish line at Wollongong Harbour on Marine Drive.
This ride is more than just a workout – it’s a journey through cycling history!
‘Birdsong’ (Wollongong-Bald Hill, via Morrison Ave) | 65km | 800m elevation
Ready to ride like a local? This out-and-back favourite to Bald Hill packs in the best of Wollongong’s northern suburbs with stunning scenery and a solid dose of adventure. Starting in Wollongong, warm up on flat, quiet roads before hitting the shared path at Sandon Point, where coastal views and salty sea air fuel the fun all the way to Thirroul Beach.
Back on the road, take on Wollongong’s famous Asquith Street climb – it’s short, sharp, and oh-so-satisfying. From there, Morrison Avenue treats you to a lush, leafy ride with birdsong and the escarpment’s shadow as your backdrop. Just watch your speed on the steep descent back to Lawrence Hargrave Drive, where undulating roads weave through charming northern villages and lead you across the jaw-dropping Sea Cliff Bridge. (Pro tip: keep an eye out for whales from May to September!)
Finally, tackle the challenging climb to Bald Hill and reward yourself with panoramic views that make every pedal stroke worth it. Regroup, recharge, and then cruise back to Wollongong – or mix it up and explore more of our epic rides.
This one’s got it all: challenge, charm, and coastal vibes!
BONUS: Looking for an off-road option? Check out Cringila Hills MTB Park!
Cringila Hills Recreation Park includes almost 12km of mountain bike trails, plus approximately 3.4km of shared-use and walking trails. This national award-winning park includes a jumps park for beginner to intermediate riders, plus an asphalt pump track and bike skills playground.
Check out the park map here!
Wollongong offers something for every cyclist, whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience. The region’s diverse landscapes, from coastal routes to challenging climbs, cater to all riding styles. Iconic spots like the Sea Cliff Bridge and Bald Hill are complemented by quieter areas around Lake Illawarra and the city’s lively streets, making for an enjoyable and varied ride experience.
Whether you’re looking for a solid workout or a scenic ride, Wollongong’s cycling routes are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, clip in, and explore the area—there’s a route for everyone.
The only question is: which one will you complete first?