Your 4-day Guide to Cradle Mountain

Located amidst the rugged Tasmanian wilderness, Cradle Mountain stands tall. An oasis for adventurers seeking solace in nature’s embrace, Cradle Moutain is a truly spectacular destination. If you’re looking to experience nature without sacrificing  comfort, our Cradle Explorer package is for you. 

This all-inclusive package pairs Cradle Mountain accommodation with delicious dining and everything you need to explore and make the most of your adventure in the heart of the wilderness.  

Day 1 – Welcome to Cradle Mountain Hotel  

Arrive: You'll arrive at the stunning Cradle Mountain Hotel, located within the scenic Alpine forest. Check into your stylish and comfortable room and crack open your complimentary bottle of wine. Sit back, relax and plan your first adventure. Check with reception if you have any questions about the wide range of walking trails, or you can pick up day walk maps from the Visitor Centre.  

Afternoon: After settling in, layer up and head out on for your first expedition of the trip, the Enchanted Walk.  

A pass is required to enter all national parks in Tasmania. If you book on the Cradle Explorer Package, your 3-day pass is included (including tickets for the shuttle bus service), so you can enjoy unlimited access.  

You’ll find the Enchanted Walk is a short but delightful trail that certainly lives up to its name and will take you about 20 minutes to complete. 

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, you’ll find the beginning of the track just near the entrance of the park, at the bridge over Pencil Pine Creek. Walk alongside the creek, through the cool temperate rain forest and keep your eyes peeled for wombat burrows, wallabies, pademelons, native birds and colourful fungi. 

Take your time and enjoy your first taste of Cradle Mountain.   

Evening: Make your way down to the Altitude Lounge Bar, where you’ll discover a haven of cosy comfort. The ambiance will immediately take you into a world of relaxation in the wilderness. Drawing inspiration from the alpine surroundings, the bar features toasty roaring fires, comfortable seating and a pool table, with a nice view of the tranquil wilderness.   

At the bar, you’ll find a wide variety of locally produced beverages. Sit back and settle in for a glass of award-winning Tasmanian red, a locally brewed craft beer or a refined Tasmanian single malt whisky. Don’t forget to order something off the tasty snack menu ahead of your big day tomorrow.  

Day 2 - Walking wonders  

Morning: Wake up in the peaceful surrounds of the alpine wilderness and get ready to start your day. Grab some breakfast and don’t forget your jacket – you’ll be walking roughly 939 metres above sea level, so it will be extra cold up there.  

With over 20 self-guided walking trails around Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake, ranging from 20 minutes to 9 hours, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can choose your trail, depending on the amount of time you’d like to hike and the level of difficulty you’re comfortable with. If you’re unsure, it's best to consult with the friendly staff at the Visitor Centre.  

Ease yourself in with the Dove Lake Circuit walk. This 6km trail is ideal for beginners, as the difficulty level is easy to moderate and should take you around 2 to 3 hours to complete.  

Dove Lake lies beneath Cradle Mountain and is one of the most iconic destinations in Tasmania. You’ll venture out through nature, strolling under the shadow of the mountain, through the tranquil Ballroom Forest and back along the western shore of the lake, returning to your starting point.  

Afternoon: If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can spend the rest of your afternoon in the area and follow the trail you’re on to link up with the Crater Lake Circuit. Simply follow the signs at the end of the Dove Lake Circuit pointing you towards Crater Lake. These trails intersect with a seamless transition. This circuit is slightly shorter, at 5.7km and offers stunning views. Along the Crater Lake trail, you’ll encounter rugged terrain, so watch your step and remain vigilant. Don’t forget your camera to capture Crater Lake’s natural beauty, it was formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago. 

Evening: After a day full of exploration, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the Altitude Restaurant. Use your $100 dining credit included in your package and delight in a hearty meal, paired perfectly with a local wine. Just what you need after a long day out and about. 

Day 3 - Hiking and a massage  

Morning: Enjoy in a light breakfast and allow us to pack you a delightful lunch pack to keep you fueled up  for the day, before setting out to experience the world famous Overland Track. Transversing the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and known as one of Australia’s premier hiking trails, this 65km track starts at Cradle Mountain in the north and will take you to Lake St Clair in the south. Committing to the entire track is a multi-day trek, but we’ve broken it down for you, so you can explore different parts of this magical trail at your own pace.  

For more experienced hikers, the summit of Cradle Mountain awaits. This challenging yet rewarding trail will take you between 6 to 8 hours and is roughly a 12km round trip. With the track likely to be very rough, steep and unmarked, exercise caution on the journey. Rest assured, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, looking out into the vast expanses of rugged mountains, pristine alpine lakes and the dense forests stretching as far as the eye can see. There are several vantage points on the way up so take as many photos as you can. 

For those who are interested in a shorter walk, Waterfall Valley is a 10km long round trip  and will take you 4 to 5 hours. Start at Rooney Creek and make your way to this picturesque spot, taking in the serenity. Pass through the beautiful alpine scenery and make sure you don’t miss the wombats at Rooney Creek on the way back. These adorable little creatures can be seen grazing in the grasslands, waddling along the trails and peeking out of their burrows.  

Afternoon: Step into the realm of tranquility as you unwind with a rejuvenating massage or an indulgent spa session at The Retreat Spa With a range of different treatments available, specifically curated to revitalise both your body and mind, take a moment to rejuvenate after all the adventure and enjoy a well-deserved pamper session.  

Evening: Soak up every minute of your last night in Cradle Mountain and reflect on your journey and time spent in the alpine wilderness. Take advantage of the remote location and let the vast expanse of the night sky whisk you away. Marvel up at the sky and stargaze. You might even catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights or the Aurora Australis if you’re lucky.  

Day 4 – The Wilderness Gallery 

Morning: After breakfast, make your way to the Wilderness Gallery. Admission is free for all to enjoy. 

Full of drawings, paintings, original sculptures and large installations throughout, take a journey across Tasmania through the eyes of local artists. You’ll learn about the rich local history and life in the region. Pick up a keepsake at the gift shop which has an extensive range of Tasmanian made products, clothing and crafts and take home a unique piece of art to commemorate your trip. 

For those seeking adventure, Cradle Mountain is the ultimate destination. Let the picturesque UNESCO Tasmania Wilderness World Heritage Area be your playground and experience the untamed beauty of the wild. 

The Cradle Explorer package includes: 

• Accommodation at Cradle Mountain for three nights 

• The National Park pass and shuttle bus service 

• A $100 food and beverage credit 

• A complimentary packed lunch for your hiking day 

• Daily breakfast 

• A bottle of wine upon arrival 

Plus, My NRMA members will enjoy 10%* off this package, just have your member number handy when you’re ready to book. 

Truly unwind, immerse yourself in nature, get lost in the breathtaking scenery and create unforgettable memories amidst the tranquil backdrop of Cradle Mountain.  

Reserve your stay.