Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain's Majestic Embrace

Today marked our second day in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, and it was nothing short of spectacular. After the initial hiccup of forgetting the insect repellent and portable charger, we were determined to make the most of our family adventure. The crisp Tasmanian air and the promise of breathtaking views spurred us on as we embarked on a day filled with exploration and natural beauty.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Hungry Wombat Cafe. Aisha, the kids and I fueled up with some delicious pancakes and coffee, a perfect start to a day of hiking. The cafe had a charming, down-to-earth vibe, and it was evident why it’s considered a little gem in the middle of nowhere. Imani was particularly impressed with his bacon roll, declaring it the best he’d ever had. Farah, ever the food critic, meticulously analyzed her French toast and gave it a solid thumbs up. The Hungry Wombat Cafe definitely lived up to its reputation for generous portions and great coffee.


Experience the charm of Hungry Wombat Cafe in Tasmania - where delicious meals meet breathtaking landscapes.

With our bellies full, we set off to tackle the Dove Lake Circuit. The weather in Cradle Mountain during November can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C, and a chance of rain. True to form, the day was a mix of sunshine and fleeting showers, reminding us of London’s temperamental climate, only with much grander scenery. We were well-prepared with our rain jackets and hiking boots, ready to embrace whatever nature threw our way.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Dove Lake Circuit in Tasmania, where hiking meets stunning landscapes and rich wildlife encounters.

The Dove Lake Circuit is a 6-kilometer loop that skirts around the lake, offering stunning views of Cradle Mountain’s towering spires. The majority of the track is boardwalked, making it relatively easy for a family hike. As we started our trek, the landscape unfolded before us in all its glory. The dark blue waters of Dove Lake reflected the surrounding mountains, creating a mesmerizing scene. Farah, always the keen photographer, was snapping away, trying to capture the perfect shot. Imani, ever the energetic one, was already a few steps ahead, eager to explore every nook and cranny.

In the heart of Tasmania's wilderness, every step is a discovery, every view a masterpiece.

One of the highlights of the Dove Lake Circuit was Glacier Rock, a lookout that provided a taste of the fantastic views around the lake. The kids were fascinated by the rock formations, remnants of Tasmania’s glacial past. We took a moment to soak in the panoramic vista, the crisp air filling our lungs. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the immense power of nature and the beauty of the Tasmanian wilderness. The track itself was a mix of terrains, from scrubby buttongrass to sandy lake beaches, each turn offering a new perspective.

As we continued our circuit, we ventured into the Ballroom Forest, a cool temperate rainforest filled with ancient Myrtle-Beech trees covered in moss. The kids were captivated by the ethereal atmosphere, imagining mythical creatures lurking among the moss-covered trees. It felt like stepping into another world, a place where time stood still. The Ballroom Forest is a rare gem, having survived numerous bushfires, creating a stunning cathedral effect.

After completing the Dove Lake Circuit, we decided to visit the Crater Lake Lookout. The trail to Crater Lake was a bit more challenging, with some steep sections, but the reward was well worth the effort. As we ascended, the views became increasingly spectacular. Crater Lake itself was a sight to behold, a serene body of water nestled amidst rugged peaks. The lookout offered an expansive view of the surrounding lakes and Cradle Mountain, a vista that truly took our breath away.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views at Crater Lake Lookout, the crown jewel of Tasmania's stunning Cradle Mountain National Park.

By late afternoon, we were all feeling a bit weary, but the thought of a delicious dinner kept us going. We made our way to the Highland Restaurant for lunch. This restaurant is known for its fine dining experience, showcasing the best of Tasmanian produce. We started with fresh Tasmanian oysters, followed by a selection of local cheeses. Aisha and I savored the flavors of Tasmania, while the kids opted for some hearty main courses. The stylish interior and the views of the pristine bushland added to the overall experience. The Highland Restaurant truly lived up to its reputation as one of Tasmania’s premier dining destinations.


Experience modern Australian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views in Cradle Mountain National Park.

As evening approached, we decided to unwind at the Altitude Restaurant + Lounge Bar. The lounge bar had a stylish yet comfortable ambiance, with plush sofas and a large log fire. We sipped on some Tasmanian craft beer and local wine, enjoying the warmth of the fire. The kids were thrilled with the range of bar snacks and desserts on offer. The Altitude Restaurant + Lounge Bar was the perfect place to relax and reflect on our day of exploration.


Experience fine dining with breathtaking views at Altitude Restaurant + Lounge Bar in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a stroll around the Cradle Mountain Hotel. The hotel is nestled in alpine woodland, offering a blend of nature and comfort. We learned about the various activities and events on offer, including trivia nights and sculpture trail scavenger hunts. It was tempting to stay longer, but we knew we had to get some rest for our adventures tomorrow.

As we settled in for the night, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible experience with my family. Cradle Mountain had exceeded all our expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and culinary delights. Despite the unpredictable weather, we had embraced the wild side of Tasmania and created memories that would last a lifetime. I am already looking forward to tomorrow where we plan to explore the Rainforest Walk Circuit and Pencil Pine Falls.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Rainforest Walk Circuit and Pencil Pine Falls. Before that, we will have breakfast at Elements Cafe, lunch at Tullah Lakeside Bar & Grill, and dinner at THE OLD BLACK STUMP Restaurant and Function Room. We might also visit the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery to see local art.

As I reflect on our day, I am reminded of a quote by John Muir:

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

Cradle Mountain had indeed given us far more than we sought, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.