Cradle Country
Experience the variety of Tasmania’s landscape, from Launceston through the patchwork of agricultural hinterland to the renowned Cradle Mountain, on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Food lovers will take delight in sampling fine wine, whisky, cheeses, raspberries, chocolates, salmon, ginseng and honey to name just a few. The option of driving from Melbourne is a possibility with the Spirit of Tasmania ferry crossing daily from Devonport.
At a Glance
- Launceston to Sheffield (1.5 hours) / 1 night Launceston
- Sheffield to Cradle Mountain (35 minutes) / 2 nights Cradle Mountain
- Cradle Mountain to Deloraine (1 hour 10 minutes)
- Deloraine to Launceston (45 minutes)
The Journey:
- Nearest major city: Launceston
- Duration / Distance: 4 days (250 km / 155 miles)
- Mode of Transport: Car
Day One
Kings Bridge, Cataract Gorge Reserve, Tasmania
Day 1 – Launceston
Arrive Launceston airport. For a delicious snack upon arrival, turn left out of the airport and head for Evandale or if a glass of wine is preferable, head to Josef Chromy wines and taste their range of wines and dine in their restaurant overlooking the vines. Then drive to Launceston and enjoy an afternoon walk or cruise through Cataract Gorge. Spend the evening and dine at one of the many great restaurants in Launceston.
Highlights
- Take a cruise with Tamar River Cruises through Cataract Gorge.
- Wander through Launceston’s City Park.
- Sample Tasmanian produce at the Mill Providore.
- Explore the Tamar Valley wine region.
- Visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery.
Day Two
Ashgrove Farm Cheesery, Tasmania
Day 2 – Launceston to Cradle Mountain via Sheffield
Following breakfast, drive out of Launceston and head along the Bass Highway towards Devonport. Stop in at the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm for a delicious raspberry infused feast. Continue down the road to Ashgrove Cheese. Taste the many varieties of cheddars on offer. From here the road to Sheffield is stunning. Meander through green pastures and the majestic Mt Roland, stopping for lunch and to look at the amazing murals in Sheffield. Arrive at Cradle Mountain in time to check in to tonight’s accommodation and enjoy some evening wildlife viewing.
Highlights
- Raspberries are available year-round at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.
- Sample traditional English country cheeses at Ashgrove Cheese.
- Enjoy the blaze of colour and stories told at the Sheffield murals.
- Experience the King Billy Pines walk at Cradle Mountain.
Day Three
Boat Shed, Lake Dove and Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Day 3 – Cradle Mountain
Wake up to the sound of birds and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off for a walk around Dove Lake or further afield to Marion’s Lookout or Crater Lake. Be surprised by the changing landscape and flora and fauna and wander through enchanting rainforest admiring the jagged dolerite peaks of Cradle Mountain. For the more adventurous, try out a canyoning adventure with Cradle Mountain Canyons or simply spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying a spa or wildlife viewing.
Highlights
- Get up close to a Tasmanian devil at Devils@Cradle.
- Enjoy the 2.5 hour walk around Dove Lake.
- Visit Waldheim Chalet and discover the history of the area.
- Visit the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery to view the latest photographic exhibition.
Day Four
Mole Creek Caves, Tasmania
Day 4 – Cradle Mountain to Launceston via Deloraine
After a leisurely morning, take an alternative route to Launceston, via Deloraine, on a magical journey through rolling hillsides of farmland, into a picturesque valley and, in the heart of it all, the tranquil small town of Mole Creek. Time permitting, visit the Mole Creek Caves before enjoying lunch in the delightful town of Deloraine, set in foothills of the Great Western Tiers mountain range. From here it’s a 45 minute drive to the Launceston Airport.
Highlights
- Stop for ice cream or a honey tasting at the Chudleigh Honey Farm.
- Visit the Mole Creek Caves, a perfect place to visit year round.
- 5 mins from the airport, pick up a tasty souvenir at the Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce Company.
