Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

Enchanted by Emerald Canopies

Today was a symphony of sights and sounds, a deep dive into the heart of Cradle Mountain's ancient rainforests. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and eucalyptus, a sensory feast that reminded me of the lush landscapes of Tanzania. It was a day of gentle exploration, perfect for the whole family, and one that left us all feeling refreshed and connected to nature.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Elements Cafe. The cafe was buzzing with early risers, all eager to start their day of adventure. I ordered a plate of eggs and bacon, while Aisha opted for a lighter meal of fresh fruit and yogurt. The kids, of course, went straight for the pancakes. Fueled up and ready to go, we set off to explore the Rainforest Walk Circuit.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tasmania's Rainforest Walk Circuit, a serene trail through lush landscapes teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
The Rainforest Walk Circuit was a gentle introduction to the wonders of Cradle Mountain. The well-maintained boardwalk meandered through a cool, temperate rainforest, showcasing ancient pencil pines and myrtle trees. The kids were fascinated by the towering ferns and moss-covered rocks, their imaginations running wild as they pretended to be explorers discovering a hidden world. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace as we walked, the only sounds the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant call of a native bird.

As we continued our walk, we reached Pencil Pine Falls. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Farah and Imani were captivated, watching the water as it plunged into the pool below. We paused for a moment, taking in the beauty of the falls and the tranquility of the surrounding rainforest. It was a perfect opportunity for a family photo, a memory we would cherish for years to come.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Pencil Pine Falls, an accessible and enchanting waterfall walk in Cradle Mountain's rainforest.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After our rainforest adventure, we drove to Tullah for lunch at the Tullah Lakeside Bar & Grill. The drive itself was scenic, winding through rolling hills and past sparkling lakes. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with stunning views of Lake Rosebery. We ordered a variety of dishes, from juicy steaks to fresh salads, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The kids devoured their burgers, while Aisha and I savored the flavors of Tasmania.


Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking lake views at Tullah Lakeside Bar & Grill – where Tasmanian flavors meet serene landscapes.
In the afternoon, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local art scene with a visit to the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery. This gallery is a treasure trove of Tasmanian art, showcasing the talents of local artists and celebrating the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. The gallery is designed into nine unique exhibition rooms, an outdoor garden, and a movie theatre. Farah, with her keen interest in design, was particularly enthralled, spending hours admiring the intricate details of the paintings and sculptures. Imani, on the other hand, was drawn to the photography exhibition, captivated by the stunning images of Cradle Mountain's landscapes. Aisha found herself drawn to the gift shop, full of Tasmanian products. I picked up a travel guidebook, while Aisha bought some handcrafted jewelry.


Discover the enchanting fusion of art and nature at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery, a unique escape in Tasmania's breathtaking landscape.
Before dinner, we took some time to reflect. I found myself thinking about the importance of preserving these natural spaces for future generations. It reminded me of the efforts we make back in Tanzania to protect our own natural heritage. It's a shared responsibility, one that transcends borders and cultures. I shared these thoughts with my family, hoping to instill in them a sense of stewardship for the environment.

Our day concluded with dinner at THE OLD BLACK STUMP Restaurant and Function Room. The restaurant was warm and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. We feasted on hearty meals, sharing stories and laughter. As the evening drew to a close, we made our way back to our accommodation, tired but content.


Experience authentic Tasmanian cuisine at The Old Black Stump Restaurant in Gowrie Park – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Tomorrow, we plan to tackle the Overland Track and visit Waldheim Chalet. I'm particularly excited about the Overland Track, as it promises to be a challenging but rewarding hike. I've heard that the views from the track are simply breathtaking, and I can't wait to experience them for myself. Aisha is looking forward to seeing Waldheim Chalet, as she's always been fascinated by the history of the area. We'll be having breakfast at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant, lunch at Villarett Gardens, and dinner at Tavern Bar & Bistro, which will give us a chance to relax after our day of exploring.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family. Cradle Mountain is a truly magical place, a sanctuary of natural beauty that has captured our hearts. I look forward to the adventures that tomorrow will bring, and the memories we will create together.

I am also glad I remembered to pack our rain jackets because the weather in Cradle Mountain can be unpredictable. However, I am kicking myself for forgetting the insect repellent and portable charger. These are definitely essentials for any trip to the wilderness, and I will make sure to have them on hand for our next adventure.

This trip is not just a vacation; it's an investment in our family, a chance to connect with each other and with nature. These are the moments that will shape our children's lives, instilling in them a love for the world and a desire to protect it. And as an archivist, I know the importance of preserving these memories, not just in my mind, but also in the stories I share with others.

The landscape, with its ancient rainforests and cascading waterfalls, evoked a sense of timelessness. It was a reminder that some things endure, that nature's beauty remains a constant source of wonder and inspiration. And as we continue our journey through Cradle Mountain, I am filled with a sense of hope for the future, a belief that we can all work together to preserve this precious planet for generations to come.