Illawarra motorcyclists are spoiled for choice, with some of Australia’s best day trips on their doorstep. Here are just three examples, recommended by City Coast Motorcycles in Wollongong.

Morning Ride: Mountains and Majesty

Rise and shine! Head up Mount Keira Road and take in the sweeping views, before riding across to Mount Ousley through the early morning mystical fog and Maddens Plains. Turn right to Bald Hill and meet the early morning motorcyclists. Chew the fat for a bit, grab an egg and bacon roll and check out the myriad bikes. Next, go south to Stanwell Park for a wander around the art gallery before taking in the majesty of Sea Cliff Bridge. If time is on your side, carry on to Austinmer to the cafe verandah where you can watch the bikes roll by and the waves roll in.

Go West!

Another excuse to take in the twisties of Mount Keira Road. Head over to Mount Ousley and get a coffee at Sublime Point. A short ride back south will take you to Appin Road and Wilton Road; this is an alternative to taking the full and busy stretch of Picton Road. Have lunch in Thirlmere and wander around the Train Museum. Head home via the tourist road to Macquarie Pass. Be sure to stop at The Famous Robertson Pie Shop and chat with the bikers.

The Kangaroo Valley Loop

With a winding and spellbinding backdrop, this ride is breathtaking. Be careful – you are more than likely to be caught by the lens of Keogh’s Vision Photography! Meet up with your crew and ride up the Macquarie Pass. This steep road has waterfalls and hairpins to boot. From Robertson take the turn-off to Fitzroy Falls for another spectacular vista. Enjoy a hearty lunch at the pub in Kangaroo Valley, where you can toss a coin and choose to ride eastwards across Berry Mountain and shop in the village or go down Cambewarra Mountain to Nowra. Either way, top off the day with a stop in Gerringong for afternoon tea followed by a lazy ride home.

Find City Coast Motorcycles at 262 Keira Street, Wollongong.