Family Adventure to Cradle Mountain

Enchanting Echoes of Nature

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet reflection, a welcome contrast to some of the more strenuous hikes we've undertaken in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. It was a day to absorb the subtle beauty of Tasmania, to let the landscape speak to us in its quiet way, and to appreciate the simple joys of being together as a family amidst such natural splendor. It reminded me of the importance of slowing down and truly seeing the world around us, a lesson I often try to impart to Farah and Imani.

Our day began, as many delightful days do, with a hearty breakfast at the Hungry Wombat Cafe. The name itself is endearing, and the reality lived up to the promise. It was a charming, down-to-earth countryside eatery. I opted for a classic Aussie burger, complete with beetroot, while Aisha enjoyed French toast. The kids, predictably, went for pancakes. Fueled and ready, we set off for our first adventure: Reynolds Falls.


Explore the stunning Reynolds Falls in Tasmania: a serene retreat showcasing nature's beauty, perfect for hiking and relaxation.
The drive to the trailhead was scenic, offering glimpses of the rolling hills and dense forests that characterize this part of Tasmania. As we set off on foot, the air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of eucalyptus and damp earth. The trail to Reynolds Falls is known for its diverse terrain, and it didn't disappoint. We started across open plains, the wind gently tugging at our jackets, before descending into steep, forested valleys. The kids were fascinated by the towering trees and the undergrowth teeming with ferns and mosses.

The hike itself was moderately challenging, with a few steep sections that required careful footing. Imani, ever the athlete, bounded ahead with enthusiasm, while Farah took a more measured approach, pausing frequently to take photographs. Aisha and I walked side by side, enjoying the quiet companionship and the shared appreciation of the natural world. I couldn't help but think of Tanzania, and how the landscapes there, though vastly different, also held a similar sense of ancient wisdom and raw beauty.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

As we neared the falls, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. And then, there they were: Reynolds Falls, cascading down through the heart of the Reynolds Falls Nature Recreation Area. The water plunged over 50 meters through a notch in a high cliff. The sight was truly breathtaking, the power and majesty of nature on full display. We spent some time simply admiring the falls, feeling the cool spray on our faces and listening to the thunderous roar of the water. Farah, of course, found the perfect spot for photos, while Imani scrambled closer to the base of the falls, eager to feel the full force of nature.

After our fill of Reynolds Falls, we decided to explore Frog Flats.


Find serenity on the Overland Track at Frog Flats, a picturesque valley offering rest and natural beauty in Tasmania's wilderness.
The drive there was just as beautiful, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Frog Flats, as I learned, is the lowest point on the famed Overland Track.

The area was serene, a peaceful clearing beside the Forth River. We took a gentle stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the tranquility and the gentle sounds of the water. It was the perfect spot for a quiet family moment, a chance to connect with each other and with the natural world. The kids enjoyed throwing stones into the river, watching the ripples spread across the surface. I found myself reflecting on the journey we've taken as a family, the challenges we've overcome, and the bonds that have grown stronger with each passing year.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Villarett Gardens.


Discover Villarett Gardens: A tranquil Tasmanian oasis blending stunning landscapes with gourmet dining experiences.
The gardens themselves were a sight to behold, a testament to the care and dedication of their creators. We enjoyed our lunch amidst the beautiful setting. Aisha and I shared a plate of king prawns, while the kids had some tempura barramundi. The restaurant was charming, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the food was delicious, showcasing the fresh, local produce of Tasmania.

After lunch, we made a stop at Reliquaire in Latrobe.


Explore Reliquaire, a whimsical gift shop in Latrobe, Tasmania, featuring unique toys, games, and delightful treasures for all ages.
This shop is a treasure trove of unique gifts and curiosities, a place where the imagination can run wild. The kids were immediately captivated by the displays of toys, games, and whimsical objects. Farah, with her artistic sensibilities, was drawn to the handcrafted jewelry and the quirky home décor items. Imani, ever the scientist, gravitated towards the puzzles and the educational toys.

I found myself admiring the shop's commitment to quality and creativity, its dedication to showcasing the work of local artisans and designers. We ended up buying a few small souvenirs, mementos of our time in Cradle Mountain. Farah chose a delicate silver necklace with a Tasmanian design, while Imani opted for a challenging puzzle that promised hours of entertainment. Aisha found a beautiful hand-painted silk scarf, a perfect reminder of our Tasmanian adventure.

Our final stop of the day was at the Tavern Bar & Bistro for dinner.


Discover delightful Tasmanian cuisine at Tavern Bar & Bistro in Cradle Mountain National Park - perfect for unwinding after outdoor adventures.
The bistro has a rustic atmosphere. The kids enjoyed wood-fired pizzas, while Aisha and I opted for some Tasmanian beer. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, a chance to relax and reflect on the experiences we had shared.

As we drove back to our accommodation, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The air was still and quiet, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth. I looked at my family, their faces flushed with happiness and exhaustion, and felt a deep sense of gratitude. We had found something special here in Cradle Mountain, something that transcended the mere act of travel. We had found a connection to nature, to each other, and to ourselves.

Tomorrow, we plan to venture towards the coast, with a visit to Paddys Nut and Brewery Knob [If you're reading this from the future, I hope the weather cooperates!]. I'm looking forward to seeing a different side of Tasmania, to experiencing the rugged beauty of the coastline and the charm of the coastal towns. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the whispers of the wilderness that will stay with us long after we've left this magical place. The journey continues, and I am grateful for every step of the way.

As I reflect on our day, I am reminded of a Tanzanian proverb that my grandfather often shared:

He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have.

It speaks to the importance of appreciating the present moment, of finding joy in the simple things, and of being grateful for the blessings in our lives. And here, in the heart of Tasmania's wilderness, I find myself feeling deeply content, surrounded by the love of my family and the beauty of the natural world.