ellaslist Review: Zipping Through The Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventure

Over the weekend, we had the absolute pleasure of visiting the Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures. What a terrific adventure this place is for the whole family; from the youngest to the most senior member.

We had been staying on a friend’s property in Figtree (Wollongong) so the extremely pretty drive took roughly 45mins up the mountain roads, past Jamberoo. It’s actually a lot closer to the Southern Highlands though; a mere 10 minutes from Robertson or 19km from Bowral. If you were to do the drive straight from Sydney, it’s an easy 1.5 - 2 hour journey. For itinerary ideas, visit Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures.

When coming from the coast, you really do feel like you are driving deep into the Budderoo National Park which heightens the sense of adventure and excitement. You’ll pass properties that look like the set of Babe and a pony riding club and we even spotted a wombat having lunch! Then just as you think you must have taken a wrong turn, there it is – the accommodating car park to the Fly.

The staff are just so friendly and warm. They efficiently made arrangements for our zip duo, then explained the highlights of the Treetop walk to the rest of us. Children must be taller than 105cm to participate in the zipline tour which meant unfortunately, our two boys were a little short but luckily, we love a good bushwalk and the Treetop walk does not disappoint - and our 12 year old was thrilled to be the only one suiting up to conquer the zip line! 

We had arrived during the Lyrebird mating season. Their “whip” like call surrounds you as you walk. It’s so enchanting. We were lucky enough to spot several during our time on the walk plus a Tawny frogmouth couple in the trees.

The Zipline

The Zipline tour sits 35m above the forest floor and is one of the highest in Australia. It has been ecologically designed with minimal impact on the forest itself, something staff are passionate about maintaining. It’s a world of fun that’s both educational, physical and thrilling. Our gorgeous 12-year-old, who has moved into the world of, well teenage-ness (you know what I’m saying) smiled ear to ear the entire time – and even considered returning with her friends to the after-dark tour. Not sure you can receive a higher compliment than that!  And don't worry if you've never done it before, you receive comprehensive training prior to even wearing the harness.

The Treetop Walk

The 500m steel walkway truly is nested at the top of the trees. It’s both exhilarating and breathtaking. Completely pram friendly too with the exception of the 106 step knights tower, almost 50m above the forest floor. We passed several elderly groups of visitors who had taken advantage of the courtesy transport that helps to complete the entire 1.5km walk.

The walkway itself is over 700m from sea level. It offers amazing views stretching out to the Tasman sea. On a clear day, you can even see Sydney city.

On-site

There is a café open Thursday – Sunday, Souvenir Shop, Car Park big enough for Caravans, a visitor information centre, plenty of room for a picnic with tables provided, and bathroom facilities including baby change tables.

If you enjoy spending time in nature as a family and educating your kids about the Aussie environment, then we can no recommend this activity highly enough. Ziplining through the rainforest is an unforgettable experience, as is strolling along the treetop walk whilst the Lyrebird sings the daily soundtrack.

Find more information and book at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures.

And don’t forget to tell them ellaslist sent you!