By Frank Wall

Cradle Mountain has long been considered the pinnacle of Australian wilderness experiences. Visitors come from all over the world to witness the spectacular scenery and ancient beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park.

You can experience the Tasmanian wilderness at its best, while enjoying truly luxurious accommodation at Cradle Mountain Lodge

A 2 hour scenic drive from Launceston or 4.5 hours from Hobart will give you a taste of what to expect from this marvellous corner of the world. Alternatively, the Lodge provides a transfer service between Devonport and Cradle Mountain so that you can travel in modern, air-conditioned comfort (bookings are essential).

‘This must be a national park for the people for all time. It is magnificent and people must know about it and enjoy it.’ Gustav Weindorfer, 1910

Gustav Weindorfer, an Austrian migrant, first fell in love with the Tasmanian wilderness in 1902. In 1913, he opened ‘Waldhein’ (Forest Home), for friends and acquaintances who wanted to enjoy the magnificent Tasmanian highland scenery.

The original accommodation remains to this day, and is a testament to the energy and determination of Gustuv and his wife Kate.

The current Lodge has had its share of changes, but the main ethos has always stayed true to Gustuv’s beliefs: that all visitors should enjoy the area, immersing themselves in the natural wonder and preserving the pristine beauty of the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park.

Cradle Mountain Lodge is a luxury retreat, with an eco-conscience.

The combination of ???? accommodation with the highest of Australia’s green conservation credentials, the Advanced Eco Accreditation, ensures that you’ll have the opportunity to learn all about your surrounding environment while enjoying a luxurious, boutique holiday.

Take yourself along any of the nearby self guided walking trails of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park with your own picnic hamper.

Spend your day wondering among the amazing 1000 year old King Billy Pines and return to a wonderful massage at the Waldheim Alpine Spa.

Take into account the handy bio-calendar, which details the stunning flora and fauna that will be ‘on show’; making the most of your experience, whatever time of the year you visit.

Choose from the standard Pencil Pines Cabins or indulge in the luxury of the Billy Pine Suites. Anyway you plan to stay, you’re sure to enjoy the magnificent surroundings.

Experience the finest wines and cuisine Tasmania has to offer.

The wonderful food and wine of the region are showcased at the Lodge, with a range of experiences to suit any traveller.

The Tavern Bar and Bistro has a rustic tavern atmosphere and serves bistro style meals for lunch and dinner, perfect for the easy meal after a long day of walking.

The Highland Restaurant offers a premier dining experience, while also catering to your daytime travel needs with a special picnic hamper service!

Other specialty events include Wine and Cheese Tasting sessions, Christmas in July and Degustation Packages.

The 2011 special event is the 17th ‘Tastings at the Top’.

A 3 day festival celebrating the very best in Tasmanian produce, this event will include degustation dinners, cooking demonstrations and spectacular spa treatments at the Waldheim Alpine Spa.

‘Tastings at the Top’ runs from 25th June to 27th June and is hosted by renowned wine maker, Peter Bourne and artisan cheese maker, Nick Haddow.

Packages to this amazing experience start from A$1,595 – per person, twin share.

Peak times for accommodation at Cradle Mountain Lodge are during summer and school holidays, so book early and always check for the 3 day package specials!

About the Author: We love Cradle Mountain in Tasmania and staying at luxury accommodation at Cradle Mountain Lodge or enjoying hotel stays at Cradle Mountain Lodge or eating fantastic gourmet food like breakfast at Cradle Mountain Lodge

Source: isnare.com

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