By Michelle Barry, the Team Leader for Child Health Promotion for Healthy Cities Illawarra

When my mother came to town from Ireland, we wanted to do something active that showed off the beauty of the Illawarra but was suitable for a 60-year-old, a toddler, pregnant lady and hubby! It seemed unlikely but then we thought of a cycle along our beautiful coastline! The guys at Riding for Life have e-bikes that you can rent, including a child seat, which was perfect! Off we went, stopping for a fish and chips picnic and playground play – it was just a great way to spend a few hours! So, whether you are a cycle enthusiastic, a novice or just looking for a cool experience, check out these beautiful cycleways.

1. Bulli Beach Reserve, Trinity Row, Bulli

All along this stretch of cycleway you are spoilt for choice on places to stop. We did Corrimal to Bulli, just enough for a quick afternoon ride there and back with plenty of food options, beach views and great playgrounds and picnic areas, plus an ocean pool for a dip. Easy, accessible and just beautiful.

2. Reddall Reserve, Reddall Parade, Lake Illawarra

Looking for a bigger challenge? Explore around the lake – there are now 52kms of cycleways around our beautiful Lake Illawarra. Any point is great to start and end but this cycleway from this epic new playground south to Barrack Point is arguably the best part. [Note: to ride all around the lake involves some sections beside busy roads – see Wollongong City Council's map for more information.] 

3. Blackbutt Forest, Shellharbour Road

This gorgeous reserve has a short (about 3kms) family-friendly track through the bushland if you are looking for something other than coastal views. It gives you a challenge and an experience of mountain biking. It's primarily shaded and has a playground, picnic areas and toilets within the reserve as well as plenty of parking.

Find the best parks near you with Play Illawarra. Discover parks on the playground finder map with photos, facilities and so much more