Solo Exploration of Tasmania's Pristine Wilderness

Into the Heart of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Today was all about embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. I woke up with a sense of anticipation, eager to explore the trails that weave through this iconic Tasmanian wilderness. While Max and Astrid were sorely missed, I knew this solo journey was exactly what I needed to reconnect with nature and myself.


Explore the breathtaking Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers in Tasmania's rugged wilderness.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant. The thought of tucking into a delicious meal with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness was too good to pass up. I savored every bite, fueling up for the day's adventures. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with a stacked stone fireplace and wooden-beamed ceilings, creating a cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect start to a day immersed in nature. I made sure to grab an extra pastry for a mid-morning snack – a habit I’ve developed from our family hiking trips in the Alps.


Experience gourmet dining amidst stunning landscapes at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant - where nature meets culinary excellence.

With a full stomach and a spirit of adventure, I set off to explore the park. My first stop was the Enchanted Walk. The crisp morning air filled my lungs as I started down the trail. The walk more than lived up to its name. Imagine a path winding through a magical, mossy forest, alongside a cascading river. The information suggested the walk would take around 20 minutes, perfect for a gentle immersion into the landscape. The brochure promised glimpses of wombats and other wildlife, and I was keen to spot some of Tasmania's unique creatures.


Experience the breathtaking Enchanted Walk, a serene hiking trail in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania, surrounded by lush landscapes and stunning natural beauty.

The Enchanted Walk was truly enchanting. The trail meandered through buttongrass moorland before diving into a cool temperate rainforest along the edges of Pencil Pine Creek. I even crawled through a few of the interpretive tunnels – I couldn’t resist, even without Astrid by my side! I could just imagine how much she would have loved them. The play of light and shadow through the ancient trees created an ethereal atmosphere, and the sounds of the forest were both calming and invigorating. Although I didn't spot any wombats on the walk itself, I kept my eyes peeled, knowing they were around. It was a wonderful experience that I will treasure.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After the Enchanted Walk, I decided to tackle the trail to Knyvet Falls. This walk, starting near the Cradle Mountain Lodge, promised a journey through myrtle rainforest to a viewing platform at the top of the falls. According to the guide, it was a relatively short walk, perfect for a moderate challenge. The thought of seeing another of Cradle Mountain's waterfalls was too enticing to resist. I parked at the Cradle Mountain Discovery Centre and took the free shuttle bus to the start of the boardwalk.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Knyvet Falls in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania—a serene escape surrounded by nature's wonders.

The Knyvet Falls walk was a delightful contrast to the Enchanted Walk. The trail descended into a lush green valley beside the Pencil Pine River, the roar of the water growing louder with each step. The brochure mentioned a side track to the base of Pencil Pine Falls, which I eagerly took. The falls were stunning, a cascade of water tumbling over the rocks. I continued along the boardwalk to Knyvet Falls, the myrtle rainforest surrounding me with its tranquil beauty. The viewing platform offered a fantastic view of the falls, and I spent some time soaking in the scenery before retracing my steps.

After my invigorating hikes, I treated myself to lunch at the Highland Restaurant. Nestled within Cradle Mountain Lodge, the restaurant offered a sophisticated dining experience with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The menu showcased Tasmania's finest local ingredients, and I savored every bite of my meal. It was the perfect way to recharge after a day of exploring.


Experience modern Australian cuisine at Highland Restaurant while enjoying breathtaking views in Cradle Mountain's stunning landscape.

As evening approached, I decided to unwind at the Void Bar. Located at MONA, the bar promised a unique experience with its underground setting and creative cocktails. I nursed a martini, enjoying the cool ambiance and reflecting on the day's adventures. The bar was a welcome contrast to the ruggedness of the outdoors, a chance to relax and enjoy some sophisticated indulgence.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite beverages at Void Bar in Berriedale, Tasmania, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

For dinner, I opted for Wild Rivers Dining. The reviews for this restaurant were excellent, and I was eager to experience its culinary offerings. The restaurant lived up to its reputation, serving innovative dishes with a focus on local produce. It was a satisfying end to a day filled with exploration and natural beauty.


Experience authentic Tasmanian cuisine at Wild Rivers Dining in Strahan – where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

As I settled in for the night, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience Cradle Mountain's wilderness. The day had been a perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and culinary delights. The weather forecast for tomorrow predicts sunny weather, so I am looking forward to visiting Hartzview Vineyard and the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo.

I am also thinking of picking up some souvenirs at Mawson Sheepskin & Opals, and perhaps enjoying a meal at Mrs Jones Restaurant Bar Lounge. But for now, I'll let the sounds of the Tasmanian wilderness lull me to sleep, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.