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If you’ve ever been lucky enough to find yourself in Tasmania, there’s no doubt you’ve made your way up to Cradle Mountain.
Cradle Mountain is a magical place, and is one of Tasmania’s most popular tourist attractions, just behind Mona. But before you go, you’re going to need a bit of a rundown on what you’re going to see, do, and where you might end up staying.
The mountain itself was named a UNESCO World Heritage Area in 1982, and it’s pretty easy to see why.
So, here’s everything you need to know about Cradle Mountain.
Things to Do At Cradle Mountain
First thing’s first, what exactly is there to do once you’ve made the drive up the mountain?
The mountain itself and Dove Lake are breathtaking and are just a short drive and walk from Cradle Mountain Lodge.
- Visit Cradle Mountain Visitors Centre and get your bearings. It’s important to understand the dangers of the hikes if you’re planning on going on some of the longer treks.
- Walk the circuit around Dove Lake and take in views of the lake, and if weather permits, Cradle Mountain. An easy walk that’s suitable for most people, just watch for snow at the far end during the colder months.
- Walk the Overland Track. The legendary hiking trail starts at the mountain and traverses through the national park for 65km. This one’s not for beginners.
- Learn all about Tasmanian Devils and Quolls, and find out about conservation efforts currently underway across Tasmania at Devils@Cradle.
- Spot wildlife in the dark with McDermott’s Coaches. Keep an eye out for Wombats, Wallabies, Pademelons, and Possums.
- Take a load off and sit by the fire at Cradle Mountain Lodge with a glass of anything you bloody well feel like.
Accommodation
It’s a bit of a drive out to the mountain so you’re definitely going to need accommodation once you get there, here are the best places to stay once you make the climb.
- Cradle Mountain Lodge is an amazing place to stay, and it’s the last stop before you head toward the car park for the mountain. There are a few options as far as what you can stay in, from standard rooms in the Pencil Pine Cabins to something with a bit more relaxation in the Spa Suites.
- Cradle Mountain Hotel is another beautiful spot that’s well worth spending your hard-earned on. Three-room options are available, the standard room, a deluxe spa room with a corner spa, and the luxurious split-level king room.
- Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village offers options that include spa cottages, chalets, and open-plan studios.
- The Highlanders are secluded bush cabins that are ideal places to enjoy the best the mountain has to offer. Cabins range from single bedroom, to those with a spa, or extra bedrooms.
- The Waldheim Cabins sit behind the 1909 Waldheim Chalet. There are 8 cabins and they’re more suited to those hitting the hiking trails, definitely not for a romantic getaway, unless that’s your thing!
What to Eat While on the Mountain
Whether you’re going for a massive hike, or just settling in for a bit of rest and relaxation, you’re going to need a big feed.
Here are the best things to eat you’ll find on Cradle Mountain.
- The Highland Restaurant at the Lodge follows a paddock to plate ethos and has options from two to four courses. Definitely try the pork fillet with celeriac Cream, grilled chorizo, apple paste, sweet potato mash and baby turnips.
- You’ll also find the legendary Tavern Bar & Bisto at Cradle Mountain Lodge where you can get a range of pub-style meals like burgers, pasta, fish and chips, and more.
- Hellyers Restaurant can be found just before you get to the Lodge and has a menu that features dishes like peppered steak, confit duck, and beautiful, fresh Tasmanian scallops.
Image credit: Jack Cain
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