Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

Whispers of the Sleeping Water

Today, our family delved deeper into the heart of Tasmania's Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The crisp air, the scent of ancient forests, and the promise of serene waters set the stage for a day of exploration and connection. It's remarkable how a place so far removed from London can feel so profoundly familiar, reminding me of the importance of nature in grounding ourselves, no matter where we are in the world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Hungry Wombat Cafe. Aisha and the children were particularly taken by the quirky name, and the promise of a hearty meal was too good to resist. I opted for a classic Aussie burger, complete with beetroot, while Aisha enjoyed a curried prawn pie, a unique Tasmanian twist. The kids, of course, went for pancakes and declared them the best they'd had so far. Fuelled up, we made a quick stop at the Discovery Parks, reception and general store to replenish our supplies, mindful of the insect repellent and portable charger we'd forgotten to pack initially. It's a lesson learned – even the most meticulous archivist can overlook the obvious!


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake St Clair, Tasmania's deepest lake surrounded by pristine wilderness and endless outdoor adventures.

Lake St Clair was our main destination for the day. The traditional Aboriginal people called the lake Leeawuleena, meaning 'sleeping water'. As we stood by its shore, the glassy surface mirrored the surrounding mountains, creating an illusion of endless sky. The children were immediately captivated, skipping stones and pointing out the various birds flitting along the water's edge. It was a moment of simple joy, watching them connect with nature in a way that only travel can inspire.

The still waters of Lake St Clair reflect not only the sky above but also the profound peace that nature offers to those who seek it.

We decided to take the ferry across to Narcissus Hut, a journey that offered stunning views of the lake and the surrounding wilderness. The ferry ride itself was an experience, the gentle rocking of the boat and the crisp wind in our faces creating a sense of tranquility. As the highest altitude ferry service in Australia, it added a unique touch to our adventure.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Narcissus Hut, your gateway to Tasmania's stunning Overland Track and serene Lake St Clair.

Narcissus Hut, nestled at the northern end of Lake St Clair, is a haven for hikers completing the famed Overland Track. The hut has a rich history, originally built in 1935 and rebuilt in 1963 after a fire. It serves as the final stop for those traversing the 65km track. We explored the area around the hut, Farah and Imani were fascinated by the suspension bridge over the Narcissus River. I took a moment to imagine the countless travelers who had passed through this spot, their journeys etched into the very fabric of the landscape. The hut provides essential facilities such as bunks, tables and benches, a composting toilet and a rainwater tank.

Our time at Narcissus Hut was a gentle immersion into the world of the Overland Track. We met a few hikers who were nearing the end of their journey, their faces etched with the satisfaction of accomplishment. Their stories of perseverance and the challenges they overcame were truly inspiring. It reminded me of the importance of pushing oneself beyond perceived limits, a lesson I hope my children will carry with them.

For lunch, we had planned a simple picnic by the lake, but the allure of the Restaurant @ Great Lake Hotel proved too strong. We drove to the hotel and enjoyed a delightful meal with a focus on local produce. Aisha and I shared the crispy spiced squid, while the children enjoyed classic dishes from the sports bar menu. It was a satisfying end to our lakeside exploration.


Experience exquisite dining amidst stunning landscapes at the Great Lake Hotel Restaurant in Tasmania.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to our accommodation, the setting sun casting long shadows across the landscape. For dinner, we opted for the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant. This restaurant is located in Cradle Valley on the edge of the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain/Lake St Clair National Park. The restaurant uses local and fresh produce. Hellyers Restaurant is open to the public Tuesday to Saturday. It was a cosy atmosphere, and we were able to enjoy local wines.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Knyvet Falls and the King Billy Tree. I am particularly looking forward to seeing the ancient King Billy Tree, a living testament to the passage of time. We might even stop by Pumphouse Point for a drink, a unique adults-only retreat poised over the glacial waters of Lake St Clair.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Tasmania's wilderness has a way of stripping away the distractions of modern life, allowing us to connect with each other and with the natural world on a deeper level. It's a reminder that the most valuable souvenirs are not material possessions, but the memories we create and the lessons we learn along the way. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving these precious landscapes for future generations, so they too can experience the transformative power of nature.

Before drifting off to sleep, I read a bit about the local area. Lake St Clair is the deepest freshwater lake in Australia. The lake was formed by glacial activity over millions of years. The lake is 167 meters deep.