Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

First Impressions: Cradle Mountain's Warm Embrace

After a long journey from London, with a stopover in between, arriving in Tasmania felt like stepping into another world. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of eucalyptus and damp earth. Aisha, Farah, Imani and I were buzzing with anticipation as we drove towards Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This trip has been a long time coming, and I was especially excited to share this experience with my family, trading the familiar streets of London for the rugged beauty of Tasmania.

Our first day was designed to be gentle, an introduction to the wilderness that awaited us. We had a few key destinations in mind, places to ease us into the landscape and prepare us for the adventures to come. I was hoping to capture the essence of this unique environment through my lens, sharing it with all of you. My family was more interested in seeing some wildlife, and experiencing the natural beauty of the park.

Tasmania, with its raw beauty and unique wildlife, has a way of capturing your soul and reminding you of the simple wonders of nature.

Our first stop was the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. This wasn't just a place to gather maps and information; it was a gateway to understanding the park's significance. The center was bustling with fellow travelers, a mix of families like ours, seasoned hikers preparing for the Overland Track, and solo adventurers eager to explore. We grabbed a few brochures, chatted with the rangers about the best trails for families, and learned about the park's history and ecology. It was great to get a sense of the area, and learn about the various activities in the park. The kids were excited to see the displays about Tasmanian devils, which made me even more excited about our next stop.


Explore Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre: Your gateway to Tasmania's stunning landscapes, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Before heading off for our first trail, we decided to have breakfast at Elements Cafe, conveniently located within the visitor center. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries filled the air, a welcome treat after our early start. I ordered a strong black coffee, while Aisha and the children opted for some pastries and juice. The cafe had a relaxed atmosphere, with large windows offering views of the surrounding landscape. It was the perfect place to fuel up before our first hike. I was pleasantly surprised by the cafe, as it was more than just a place to grab a quick bite. It was a cozy retreat, a place to gather your thoughts and prepare for the adventures ahead.


Discover comfort and flavor at Elements Cafe in Cradle Mountain—your perfect retreat amidst Tasmania's natural beauty.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off on the Enchanted Walk. This 1.1km loop is known for its accessibility and enchanting scenery, making it an ideal choice for families with young children. As we entered the trail, we were immediately enveloped by the lush rainforest. Towering trees draped in moss created a magical atmosphere, while the sound of Pencil Pine Creek trickling alongside the path added to the tranquility. The boardwalk made it easy to navigate the trail, even for Imani, who sometimes has a habit of running off-path to explore. We meandered through the forest, stopping to admire the cascading Pencil Pine Falls and the unique flora and fauna. The kids were fascinated by the wombat burrows we spotted along the way, though we didn't catch a glimpse of the elusive creatures themselves. I tried my best to capture the beauty of the falls with my camera, hoping to do justice to its serene charm. Farah was very excited to get some photos to post to her social media accounts as well.


Discover the magic of Cradle Mountain on this easy, enchanting walk through a mossy forest alongside a cascading creek. Perfect for all ages!

After our walk, it was time for lunch, and we headed to Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant. The restaurant had received mixed reviews, but we were eager to try it for ourselves. The cozy atmosphere and stunning views of Cradle Mountain certainly lived up to expectations. We were seated by the window, which provided a perfect backdrop for our meal. The menu offered a range of dishes made with local Tasmanian produce, and we decided to try a few different options to get a taste of the region. Aisha ordered the Tasmanian salmon, while I opted for the wallaby dumplings, wanting to try something uniquely Tasmanian. The children chose some more familiar dishes, like pizza and pasta. Overall, the food was delicious, and the service was attentive. I was quite happy with the experience, and would certainly recommend it to others.


Discover exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant in Tasmania.

Our final destination for the day was Devils@Cradle, a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of Tasmanian devils and quolls. As an archivist, I am always interested in conservation efforts, and I was excited to learn more about these unique creatures. The sanctuary offered a range of tours and experiences, and we opted for the general entry, allowing us to wander at our own pace. We observed the devils in their enclosures, learning about their life cycles, biology, and the threats they face in the wild. The kids were captivated by the devils' playful antics and their distinctive screeches. Imani, in particular, was very interested in the conservation programs, and asked many questions of the keepers. I was impressed by the sanctuary's commitment to education and conservation, and it was heartening to see the efforts being made to protect these iconic species.


Discover Tasmania's unique wildlife at Devils@Cradle, a sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education in the stunning Cradle Mountain region.

For dinner, we decided to try the Tavern Bar & Bistro. The rustic atmosphere, complete with a roaring log fire, was the perfect way to end our first day in Cradle Mountain. The menu was family-friendly, with a variety of pizzas, burgers, and pasta dishes to choose from. I ordered a Tasmanian beer to celebrate our arrival, while Aisha enjoyed a glass of local wine. The kids were happy with their meals, and we all enjoyed the cozy ambiance of the tavern. It was the perfect setting to reflect on our first day and plan for the adventures that awaited us tomorrow.


Discover delightful Tasmanian cuisine at Tavern Bar & Bistro in Cradle Mountain National Park - perfect for unwinding after outdoor adventures.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to our cabin, nestled amidst the towering trees. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs, and the stars twinkled above us. I felt a sense of contentment, knowing that we were embarking on a journey that would create lasting memories for our family. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Dove Lake Circuit and Crater Lake Lookout. I'm looking forward to the hike, and capturing the iconic views of Cradle Mountain reflected in the pristine waters of Dove Lake. For now, however, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this remarkable wilderness.