Here are 10 fun tracks in the Illawarra, Southern Highlands, Wollondilly and Shoalhaven, featuring suspension bridges, swimming holes, waterfalls, caves and fascinating blasts from the past.

A lush walk back in time in the Southern Highlands. A set of metal stairs by the side of a waterfall leads to a natural grotto of sorts, a gorgeous pool and haunting memories of the site's mining history, all of it surrounded by cliffs. Steep stairs and water. Details

Still in the Moreton National Park, this magical track takes you to the top of the escarpment, past long dangling vines and moss-covered rocks, with a ladder leading to the bottom of the falls. The sign at the track head says the 2km return walk takes just over an hour. Details.

This short, picturesque walk leads you through bushland to a pristine waterhole with sandstone features and a small stone island. Minerva Pool is a sacred women's place for the Dharawal people, and the Tharawal Local Aboriginal Land Council asks that only women and children enter the waters. Details

Take an easy and pleasant 2.5km walk to Whale Point, where the SS Merimbula ran aground in 1928 and the wreck still remains. Longer walks within Abrahams Bosom Reserve include Lobster Bay, Mermaids Inlet and Coomies. Details.

This stunning walk loops around the Shoalhaven River, through its gorges, forests and grassy shores. A suspension bridge provides a fun crossing of the river, and also gives access to Depot Farm Reserve and its picnic area. The complete track provides a leisurely return walk of about 5.5km. Details.

There is something very bohemian about this little hidden gem tucked away between Jamberoo and Robertson. See for yourself as you explore Nellies Glen and the Blue Pool, or head to nearby Missingham lookout track, Warris Chair lookout track or Carrington Falls picnic area. Details.

Situated on the Old Hume Highway, this signposted 1.8km walk guides you along the Wingecarribee River bank to reveal what the German merchant seamen built while interned in Berrima for four years during WW1 at the German Internment Camp. Details.

The 1km walk (each way) along a fire trail guides you through bushland, before opening up to a set of gently tiered falls, with many picnic-friendly ledges surrounding a pool. There are some steep areas just before you reach your destination and the trek back up the hill can be a bit of a slog. Details

A varied and interesting walk that takes in meandering rainforest tracks, tall woodlands, open trails and a poignant journey back in time through Wollongong's mining history. The path may be a little rough, muddy and steep in places so ensure you wear appropriate footwear. Details.

The track follows the creek through sandstone cliffs, rock walls, overhangs and caves. The small gorge is rich in Aboriginal heritage and sheer sandstone faces. There are two walks - a 5km return, and a 1 1/2km return along the western track. Dogs allowed on-leash. Details

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