Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

Echoes of the Day: A Tasmanian Rhapsody

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the Cradle Mountain landscape, I found myself reflecting on a day filled with the raw beauty and quiet majesty that only Tasmania can offer. Today was a journey into the heart of this national park, a place where ancient trees whisper stories of millennia and waterfalls carve paths through the very soul of the earth. It was a day of exploration, connection, and profound appreciation for the natural world – a day I'm eager to share.

The day began, as most good days do, with a hearty breakfast. We ventured to Elements Cafe [Aisha, Farah, Imani and I], nestled near the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the scent of warm pastries. It was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures ahead. I opted for a simple but satisfying breakfast of eggs and toast, while Aisha chose a vibrant fruit platter. The children were thrilled with their choices of pancakes and waffles. As we ate, we discussed our plans for the day, excitement building with each passing moment.


Discover comfort and flavor at Elements Cafe in Cradle Mountain—your perfect retreat amidst Tasmania's natural beauty.

Our first stop was Knyvet Falls, a relatively short walk that promised a rewarding view. The trail began just opposite the Cradle Mountain Lodge shop, clearly signposted for both Knyvet Falls and the Dove Canyon Circuit. The path, a well-maintained boardwalk, wound its way through a buttongrass field. I kept a keen eye out for wombats, knowing they were often spotted in this area, but alas, they remained elusive this time.


Explore the breathtaking Knyvet Falls in Cradle Mountain, Tasmania, where nature's beauty and tranquility await every visitor.

As we descended a few stairs, we were enveloped by an enchanting myrtle rainforest. The air was thick with moisture, and the sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow. The children were captivated by the towering trees, their trunks covered in moss and lichen, creating a tapestry of textures and colours. The sound of Pencil Pine Creek accompanied us, a constant, soothing melody.

The walk to the falls was easy, even for Imani, who sometimes grumbles about long hikes. The boardwalk was narrow in places, and I had to remind Farah to watch her step as it could get slippery. We soon reached the viewing platform overlooking the top of Knyvet Falls. The waterfall itself wasn't particularly large, but it was picturesque, cascading down the rocks into the creek below. The viewing platform offered a decent vantage point, but I ventured a bit further along the track for an even better perspective.

After Knyvet Falls, we decided to immerse ourselves further in the ancient forests of Cradle Mountain with a visit to the King Billy Tree. The walk to the King Billy Pine was enchanting, especially as dusk approached. The air grew cooler, and a sense of quiet magic settled over the landscape. The children were noticeably quieter, their usual boisterous energy replaced by a sense of awe. The King Billy Pine, named after William Lanne, an Aboriginal tribal leader, is a true giant, standing tall and proud, its ancient wood whispering stories of centuries past.


Explore the awe-inspiring King Billy Tree in West Coast Tasmania, a symbol of ancient beauty and natural resilience amidst breathtaking wilderness.

Standing at the base of that ancient tree, I felt a profound connection to the history of this land, a sense of belonging that transcended time and place.

The walk itself was relatively easy, though there were some uphill sections. The boardwalk kept us off the forest floor, protecting the delicate ecosystem beneath our feet. As we walked, we admired the moss-covered trees, the vibrant fungi, and the occasional wildflower. The forest was alive with the sounds of nature – the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the gentle murmur of the wind.

Reaching the King Billy Pine, we stood in silence, gazing up at its massive trunk. It was humbling to think that this tree had been standing here for over a thousand years, witnessing the changing seasons, the ebb and flow of life, and the passage of time. The children peppered me with questions – How old is it? What kind of tree is it? Has it always been here? I did my best to answer, sharing what I knew about the history of the tree and the surrounding forest.

After our walk, with appetites suitably piqued, we headed to Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Restaurant for a late lunch. The restaurant offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, with views of the surrounding rainforest. We opted for a selection of dishes, including some Tasmanian specialties. The children were particularly fond of the hearty meat pies, while Aisha and I savoured the fresh seafood.


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

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at Pumphouse Point. Although primarily accommodation, its bar is open to non-residents. The drive there was stunning, with the landscape bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. Pumphouse Point itself was a unique and intriguing structure, perched on a glacial lake, surrounded by ancient forests. It was originally constructed in the 1940s as part of Tasmania's Hydroelectric Scheme, later transformed into a boutique hotel.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Pumphouse Point, a luxurious retreat on Tasmania's stunning Lake St Clair.

We settled into the bar, sinking into comfortable couches by the fire. The children sipped on sparkling juice while Aisha and I enjoyed a glass of Tasmanian wine. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we chatted with other travellers, sharing stories of our adventures in Cradle Mountain.

For dinner, we chose Altitude Restaurant + Lounge Bar, located at Cradle Mountain Hotel. The restaurant offered contemporary Australian cuisine in a beautiful wilderness setting. The menu featured fresh, local produce, and the wine list showcased some of the best wines from Tasmania and beyond.


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

We started with some shared appetisers, including seafood chowder and Tasmanian scallops. For mains, I opted for the Cape Grim eye fillet, while Aisha chose the highland lakes rainbow trout. The children were delighted with their choices of pasta and grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.

As we savoured our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. We had walked through ancient forests, marvelled at cascading waterfalls, and connected with the natural beauty of Cradle Mountain. It was a day that had nourished our souls and created lasting memories.

As we head into tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of Cradle Mountain. The itinerary includes Cradle Mountain Rd and Face Track. I am particularly looking forward to Face Track, and hope it offers the chance to challenge myself physically while soaking in the stunning views.

Back at our cabin, as the children drifted off to sleep, I sat by the window, listening to the sounds of the Tasmanian wilderness. The wind rustled through the trees, and the distant call of an owl echoed through the night. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to explore this remarkable place with my family. It was a day I would cherish forever.