Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

A Day Amongst Giants

Today was a day of delving deeper into the heart of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. After several days of challenging hikes, we opted for something a bit more moderate, balancing education with exploration. It was a day of beautiful views and reflection, spent with my loved ones in this inspiring landscape.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Elements Cafe. The cafe is conveniently located at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. We fueled up with some wraps, pies and burgers before heading out for the day. It's always a good idea to grab a coffee before exploring the trails. I had a strong coffee, while Aisha and the children had some tea and pastries.
Our first stop was the Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre & Ranger Station. As an archivist, I am naturally drawn to places where information is preserved and shared, and this centre did not disappoint. We spent a good hour learning about the park's history, geology, and the unique flora and fauna that call this place home. The children were particularly fascinated by the displays on Tasmanian devils and other native animals. I was intrigued to learn about the geological history of the area. The centre provided a great foundation for appreciating the landscape we were about to explore further.


Explore Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre & Ranger Station, your gateway to Tasmania's majestic natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
From the centre, we embarked on our main adventure for the day: hiking to Hansons Peak. The trail wasn't too strenuous, making it perfect for a family hike. As we ascended, the views became increasingly panoramic. The crisp mountain air invigorated us, and the scenery was simply stunning. The weather in November is mild, perfect for hiking. I made sure the family had their rain jackets, as the weather can change quickly.


Experience the breathtaking views at Hansons Peak in Cradle Mountain National Park, Tasmania's stunning natural wonder perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Along the way, we encountered several other hikers, exchanging smiles and words of encouragement. There's a unique camaraderie among people who venture into the wilderness, a shared understanding of the challenges and rewards of being in nature. I even shared some stories about my adventures back home in Tanzania, and they were quite fascinated to hear them. Imani and Farah were excited to spot a few pademelons darting through the undergrowth. Aisha, ever the artist, was captivated by the textures and colors of the landscape, taking numerous photos for future textile designs.
Reaching the summit of Hansons Peak was a moment of triumph for all of us. The 360-degree views were simply breathtaking. Cradle Mountain loomed majestically in the distance, and the surrounding valleys stretched out before us in a tapestry of greens and browns. We spent a good while at the top, soaking in the scenery and enjoying a picnic lunch we had packed from Elements Cafe. It was a perfect spot for reflection. As I looked out over the vast wilderness, I thought about the importance of preserving these natural spaces for future generations. I made sure to take a photo of the family with the stunning backdrop.
After descending from Hansons Peak, we had lunch at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant. It was such a treat to enjoy a delicious meal after our hike. The restaurant offers a range of local and fresh produce. It was the perfect place to relax and reminisce about our hike.


Discover exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant in Tasmania.
In the late afternoon, we decided to check out Wandering Trout - Gourmet Stays, a bar that had been recommended to us. It was a bit of a drive, but well worth it. Wandering Trout is known for its gourmet dining and boutique stays. The place had a rustic charm, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We enjoyed some local Tasmanian beers and ciders while relaxing in the cozy lounge area. The children enjoyed some snacks and played some board games.


Experience Tasmania's culinary delights at Wandering Trout, where gourmet dining meets cozy lodge accommodations amidst stunning mountain views.
For dinner, we decided on THE OLD BLACK STUMP Restaurant and Function Room in Gowrie Park. The restaurant is known for its hearty, home-cooked meals made with fresh Tasmanian produce. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. I ordered the Tasmanian salmon, while Aisha opted for the local scotch fillet. The children enjoyed the kids' menu, which had a variety of options. The food was delicious and satisfying, the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.


Experience authentic Tasmanian cuisine at The Old Black Stump Restaurant in Gowrie Park – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared as a family. Cradle Mountain is a truly special place, a sanctuary of natural beauty that has a way of rejuvenating the soul. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cradle365 Photo Holder and Sheffield Murals Self-Guided Walking Tour. We will have breakfast at Hungry Wombat Cafe, lunch at Villarett Gardens, and dinner at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant. It promises to be another day of discovery and adventure in this remarkable corner of the world.
Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller. – Ibn Battuta