Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Tasmania

Day 11: Waterfalls and Woolly Wonders

Today was a day of natural beauty and delightful discoveries, a perfect blend of Tasmania's stunning landscapes and unique local offerings. It's amazing how quickly this trip is flying by; tomorrow marks our final day in this beautiful wilderness. I'm already feeling a pang of sadness, but also immense gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Pancake Train Restaurant. The name alone was enough to pique our curiosity, and the reality exceeded our expectations. Imagine dining inside a vintage train carriage, surrounded by the aroma of freshly made pancakes. It was a whimsical start to the day, and the pancakes were absolutely delicious, setting the perfect tone for our adventures ahead. Hans, of course, opted for a hearty stack with bacon and maple syrup, while Anna chose a delightful berry-filled creation. I went for the classic lemon curd, a taste of sunshine on a plate.


Discover delicious pancakes and cozy vibes at The Pancake Train Restaurant in Margate - A must-visit breakfast spot in Tasmania.

Fueled up and ready to explore, we set off for Mount Field National Park, home to the majestic Russell Falls. The walk to the falls was an experience in itself, a gentle stroll through a lush, green rainforest. Towering ferns lined the path, creating a magical, almost prehistoric atmosphere. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the sounds of trickling water and birdsong. It was a sensory feast, a reminder of the simple beauty of nature. Reaching Russell Falls, I was struck by its tiered cascade, a vision of water gracefully tumbling over the rocks. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a shimmering effect, adding to the enchantment. It’s easy to see why this is one of Tasmania's most photographed waterfalls.


Explore the breathtaking Russell Falls in Mount Field National Park, a natural wonder showcasing cascading waterfalls and lush Tasmanian wilderness.

The best view comes after the hardest climb. And in this case, the climb was more of a gentle stroll, but the view was indeed breathtaking.

From Russell Falls, we continued our exploration of Mount Field National Park, venturing towards Lady Barron Falls. The walk was a bit more challenging, with some stairs to navigate, but the reward was well worth the effort. Lady Barron Falls offered a different perspective, a more secluded and tranquil experience. The water cascaded down the rocks in a series of gentle streams, creating a soothing melody. We took our time here, soaking in the serenity and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Lady Barron Falls, a must-see waterfall in the heart of Tasmania's Mount Field National Park, showcasing nature's grandeur.

After our waterfall adventures, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Earthwater Café. It was a charming little place, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. I had a delicious salad, bursting with vibrant flavors, while Hans enjoyed a hearty sandwich. Anna, ever the foodie, opted for a vegetarian frittata. It was a satisfying meal, a perfect way to refuel after our morning of hiking.


Discover Earthwater Café: A charming spot in Mole Creek for delicious coffee and breakfast amidst stunning gardens.

With our appetites sated, we embarked on a bit of retail therapy, stopping at Mawson Sheepskin & Opals. As an archivist, I appreciate the history and craftsmanship behind unique items, and this shop was a treasure trove of Tasmanian souvenirs. I found a beautiful opal pendant for myself, a sparkling reminder of our adventure. Hans, ever practical, purchased a warm sheepskin rug for our living room back in Berlin. And Anna, of course, found a quirky little trinket to add to her ever-growing collection.


Discover authentic Tasmanian souvenirs at Mawson Sheepskin & Opals, featuring exquisite sheepskin products and stunning opal jewelry.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Freycinet Marine Farm for dinner. Situated on the Freycinet Peninsula, the farm offered a unique dining experience. We indulged in a seafood feast, savoring the freshest oysters, mussels, and rock lobster. The flavors were incredible, a testament to the pristine waters of Tasmania. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff and learning about the farm's sustainable practices.


Discover fresh Tasmanian seafood at Freycinet Marine Farm - a paradise for food lovers amidst stunning coastal scenery.

Tomorrow is our last day, and we plan to make the most of it. We'll be heading to the Blow Hole and Eaglehawk Lookout, hoping to capture some final breathtaking views of the Tasmanian coastline. And perhaps we'll cap off our trip with a visit to Evolve Spirits Bar, a chance to sample some local Tasmanian spirits [if it is open].

As I sit here writing, I'm filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. This trip to the Tasmanian Wilderness has been an incredible experience, a chance to reconnect with nature, bond with my family, and create lasting memories. It's a journey I'll cherish forever. I am also thrilled to add to my collection of photographs and stories, to share with the local history museum back in Berlin. Perhaps I can even curate a small exhibit about the Tasmanian Wilderness, to share its beauty and history with others.

Looking ahead, I'm already dreaming of our next adventure. Perhaps a trip to Bulgaria, to explore my own roots and share my heritage with Hans and Anna. Or maybe a journey to South America, to discover the ancient civilizations and vibrant cultures of that continent. The world is full of wonders, and I'm eager to explore them all.

But for now, I'll savor the last moments of our Tasmanian adventure, knowing that the memories we've created will stay with us long after we've returned to Berlin. And who knows, maybe one day we'll find ourselves back in this beautiful corner of the world, chasing waterfalls and discovering new treasures.

This trip has also reminded me of the importance of cherishing our time with family. As Anna gets older, I know these opportunities to travel together will become less frequent. That's why I'm so grateful for these past eleven days, for the laughter, the shared experiences, and the memories we've created together. It's a reminder that the greatest treasures in life are not material possessions, but the bonds we share with the people we love. And as we prepare for our final day in Tasmania, I'm determined to soak in every last moment, to appreciate the beauty of this wilderness, and to cherish the company of my beloved family. After all, it's not just about the destinations we visit, but the journey we take together, and the memories we create along the way. So, as I close my journal for the night, I raise a glass to adventure, to family, and to the magic of Tasmania.