Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

Saying Goodbye to Cradle Mountain

As our Tasmanian adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. It's hard to believe that fifteen days have flown by so quickly. This trip was more than just a vacation; it was an immersion into nature's grandeur, a test of our family's resilience, and a collection of moments that I know we'll treasure for years to come.

Our final day began, as many others had, with the promise of unpredictable weather. November in Cradle Mountain is a mixed bag, with moderate temperatures that can swing from comfortable to chilly in an instant. We packed layers, anticipating anything from sunshine to rain, and made our way to the Hungry Wombat Cafe for breakfast. This charming spot, located inside the highway service station, was just what we needed to fuel up for our last day of exploring. The kids were thrilled with their pancakes, while Aisha and I opted for the hearty breakfast with delicious coffee. It's a simple place, but the food was satisfying, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.


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

With our bellies full, we set off towards Cradle Mountain itself. The iconic peak loomed in the distance, a constant reminder of the raw, untamed beauty of this place. We decided to tackle the hike to Marion's Lookout, a trek I'd heard offered some of the most spectacular views in the park. The weather was kind to us, with the sun peeking through the clouds, casting a golden light on the landscape.


Discover unparalleled views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake at Marions Lookout, a scenic gem in Tasmania's stunning wilderness.

The trail to Marion's Lookout is not for the faint of heart. It's a challenging climb, with a steep ascent that involves some rock scrambling. I was a little concerned about Imani, who, despite his love for sports, sometimes lacks the endurance for longer hikes. But he surprised me, tackling the rocks with determination, Farah, ever the supportive older sister, was by his side, offering encouragement and a helping hand. Aisha and I brought up the rear, taking our time and enjoying the stunning scenery.

    

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

There are three choices for getting to Marions Lookout. We chose the hard straight ascent from the Dove Lake Circuit. The ascent was difficult, but the view was definitely worth it. As we climbed higher, the landscape opened up before us. Dove Lake sparkled below, surrounded by lush green forests and rugged mountain peaks. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of our own breathing and the occasional call of a native bird. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the simple beauty of the natural world.

Reaching Marion's Lookout was a triumph. The view was, as promised, breathtaking. Cradle Mountain stood majestically in the distance, its jagged peaks piercing the sky. We could see for miles in every direction, a panorama of rolling hills, pristine lakes, and ancient forests. The kids were awestruck, and even Aisha, who is usually more reserved, couldn't help but gasp at the sight. We spent a long time at the lookout, soaking in the view and taking photos to capture the moment. It was a perfect family moment, one that I know we'll cherish forever.

After descending from Marion's Lookout, we drove to the Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre & Ranger Station. It was a good place to shop for souvenirs and learn more about the park's history and ecology. The kids were fascinated by the exhibits on local wildlife, and I picked up a travel guidebook to help plan future adventures. We spent some time browsing the shop, where I bought a small wombat toy for Imani and a beautiful piece of Tasmanian wood art for Aisha.


Explore the Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre & Ranger Station, your gateway to Tasmania's breathtaking wilderness and rich natural history.

For lunch, we decided to try the Tullah Lakeside Bar & Grill, a bit of a drive from Cradle Mountain but worth it for the change of scenery. The drive itself was beautiful, winding through rolling hills and past sparkling lakes. The restaurant was located right on the banks of Lake Rosebery, offering stunning views of the water. We sat outside on the deck, enjoying the sunshine and the fresh air. The menu was varied, with something for everyone, and the food was delicious. I had a juicy steak, while Aisha opted for the mouthwatering seafood. The kids were happy with their burgers and fries, and we all agreed that it was a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch.


Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking lake views at Tullah Lakeside Bar & Grill – where Tasmanian flavors meet serene landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Cradle Mountain for our final dinner at the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant. This restaurant had received mixed reviews, but we were eager to try it for ourselves. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with stunning views of Cradle Mountain in the background. The service was attentive, and the food was delicious. I tried the wallaby dumplings, a local delicacy, while Aisha enjoyed the pork cheek curry. The kids were happy with their pasta dishes, and we all agreed that it was a fitting end to our Tasmanian culinary adventure.


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

Our time in Cradle Mountain has been a journey of discovery, both of the natural world and of ourselves. We've faced challenges, overcome obstacles, and created memories that will last a lifetime. I've watched my children grow in confidence and resilience, and I've seen my family bond in ways that I never thought possible. As an archivist, I'm used to preserving the stories of the past, but this trip has shown me the importance of creating our own stories, of living in the moment and embracing the unknown.

As we prepare to leave this remarkable place, I know that a part of us will always remain here, amidst the towering peaks, the ancient forests, and the pristine lakes. Cradle Mountain has captured our hearts, and we leave with a sense of gratitude and a promise to return someday. I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family, and I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us forever.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to London. There is no specific itinerary, as our trip has come to an end. It is time to return home, back to our familiar routines. While I look forward to the comforts of home, I will miss the wild beauty of Tasmania, and the simple joys of spending time with my family in nature. This trip has reminded me of the importance of disconnecting from the digital world and connecting with the natural world, and I hope to make more trips like this in the future. Perhaps next time, we'll explore another corner of Africa, or venture into the mountains of Asia. The world is full of wonders, and I'm eager to discover them all with my family by my side. I will be sure to pack insect repellent and a portable charger next time, though!

Until next time, Cradle Mountain. Asante sana.