|
|
 |
|
|
Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair Park
Tasmania is often described as the closest thing to heaven
on earth, and this region has to be one of the most stunning
in Tasmania. Cradle Mountain has everything to suit the
most selective of tourists with its mountainous landscape
and stunning scenery. Accessible by campervan, this is a
must do on your holiday and is worth the drive to visit
the Tasmanian wilderness at its best.
Located in the south west, this world heritage listed park
is only 83km from Devonport and 144km from Launceston.
The drive from Queenstown, further south,includes added
scenery such as beaches, rainforests and winding roads.
Named because it appears like a miners cradle, the Cradle
Mountain soars majestically above Dove Lake. Formed as a
result of massive glaciers thousands of years ago, left
behind are peaks and landforms that are mesmerising. At the
entrance of the park is a visitor centre which has all the
extra information you need to enjoy the park. The Cradle
Mountain Tourist Park is the only caravan park available
located at Cradle Valley. There are also camping grounds at
Lake St Clair.
The weather conditions are extreme, varying from sunny to
rain and sleet. The winds can be bone chilling especially if
you are climbing higher altitudes, so come prepared and
check before you start any long treks. Strong boots and
lots of warm clothing are a must.
A great way to see the park is on foot. There are trails to
suit all levels of fitness, ranging from 10 minutes to 3
hours on average. The Enchanted nature walk takes about
thirty minutes and brings you to face to face with the
natural habitat. At night the Tasmanian devil and possums
often make an appearance.
There are plenty of walking huts spread along the tracks,
plus a road to the edge of Dove Lake and so many walking
tracks that this park would have to be one of the most
accessible to anybody who is willing to make the trip to
visit. There are also many varieties of accommodation if
you would like to spend a night in a cabin or lodge.
Waldheim Chalet is one of the first main attractions in
the area, situated in the Cradle Valley. It has been
reconstructed and left as it was almost 100 years ago.
Weindorfer Forest walk leaves from this Chalet and takes
only twenty minutes, and there are longer two hour walks
that return via the Dove River Gorge.
However, the most popular walk is the Overland Track which
also leaves from the Waldheim Chalet and winds over 80km of
the park. Taking at least seven to eight days, you will
experience everything from rainforest and steep slopes to
grass and alpine plains. There is no question this will
be a life changing trek. If you are attempting this walk
make sure you are prepared as it requires excellent
fitness.
There are many side tracks along the Overland Track that
will take you to some fantastic spots. At over 1600 metres,
Mt Ossa is Tasmania’s highest mountain, and takes about
three hours to trek to the summit from Pelion Gap if you are
keen to do this. The views from the top are worth the trip.
If you are attempting this trek in summer it is advised to
bring water.
Not only are there amazing mountains, rainforests, lakes and
wildlife, but there are waterfalls. The Harnett Falls are
the highest of the falls along the Mersey River which runs
through the park. It only takes about twenty minutes to
reach these falls from the Overland Track, and the views are
incredible. With all the scenery around, you will have
become an amateur photographer by the time you leave the
park.
Whether you spend a few days here, or up to a week, you will
leave with a sense of wonder at the natural beauty of this
spectacular region. Tasmania has something for everyone,
and your campervan holiday will be better still if you
include Cradle Mountain National Park on your itinerary.
Jenny Brewer
|
| Related Information |
Cradle Chalet
Cradle Chalet Luxury Boutique Lodge is set on 18 acres of private wilderness near Moina in northwest Tasmania and is the ideal getaway or romantic retreat for anyone visiting the nearby Cradle Mountain National Park or any other local attractions.
Cradle Coast Tours
Cradle Coast Tours offer specialised Boutique Tours of Tasmania's Central Coast and beyond. Jump on board and enjoy expert commentary offering a great and unique insight to this wonderful part of the state.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Call Us Now
1800 704 332
|
|
We would love to
Help You
|
|
|
The 7 Things You Need to Know About A Campervan Holiday
Visit Our
Campervan Guide
|
Brands You Can Trust
|
|
