Pedal Power Tourism Kicks off in the Gong

Wollongong’s legendary MS Sydney to the Gong Bike Ride has long been a favorite with hard-core cyclists, but the picturesque coastal city is now stamping itself as Australia’s holiday cycling capital with a new brochure to promote its beachfront City Cycleway and other local bike routes.

Tourism Wollongong General Manager Greg Binskin said the 15km City Cycleway was a healthy way to explore the city and catered for cyclists of all abilities, from families to professional riders or anyone just keen to enjoy a self-propelled tour of Wollongong’s sandy coastline.

The new brochure, which is available by calling 1800 240 737 or from local cycle shops and visitor centres, explains key features of the route, which starts in the CBD and follows the shoreline north to the coastal village of Thirroul.

“The best part about the City Cycleway is that it’s now lined with fantastic new restaurants and cafes – among them Five Islands Brewery, Lagoon Restaurant, Dunes and Diggies Café – that give riders the opportunity to enjoy local fare in a variety of beachfront settings, while also enjoying a healthy cycle,” Mr Binskin said.

“Cyclists can ride all or part of the route, all the while taking in wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the brooding Illawarra Escarpment on the other.”

The Cycle Wollongong brochure also showcases stunning rides elsewhere around the region, including around Lake Illawarra and along the beachfronts at Shellharbour and Kiama.

“The options are endless for cyclists who want to enjoy the wonderful ambience of this part of the South Coast while burning off some serious calories.”

For more information about Wollongong or a copy of the new Cycle Wollongong brochure, phone toll-free 1800 240 737 or visit www.tourismwollongong.com

The Cycle Wollongong brochure was developed with support from the IMB Community Foundation.