Where to stay at Cradle Mountain

Staying directly at Cradle Mountain allows you to experience this magnificently rugged destination to the fullest. While you can’t stay in that eye-catching Dove Lake shed, there’s a handful of superb accommodation options in the tiny village at the national park border, a short ride from the scenic heart of Cradle Valley.

After soaking up nature all day long, imagine the bliss of having dinner in an amenity-rich wooden lodge or going to bed in a cabin surrounded by forested bushland. All this with trails and boardwalks not only frequented by fellow visitors but also much-loved wildlife, including wallabies and wombats, on your doorstep.

We present all the places to stay in Cradle Mountain Village, plus the (basic) options within the national park. Take your pick — and as they are in high demand, don’t wait too long.

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Cradle Mountain Village

Amid the alpine wilderness at the northern border of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the tourist facilities of Cradle Mountain Village line up. Expect to find Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, Cradle Mountain Interpretation Centre, Devils@Cradle (a wildlife refuge), some lodging complexes and not a whole lot more — stocking up on any groceries needed in advance is highly recommended.

Getting from Cradle Mountain Village to the must-see spots in the national park typically involves a 15-minute ride with the official shuttle bus. It runs from the visitor centre, via the interpretation centre, towards Dove Lake. During shuttle hours, private vehicles are not allowed to continue past the boom gate marking the end of civilisation’s comforts.

Sleeping in Cradle Mountain Village

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

Despite offering warm-toned pencil pine cabins and luxurious suites with hot tubs, the natural setting is Peppers greatest treasure. With the property connecting to trails like the aptly named Enchanted Walk, the opportunities for spontaneous adventures and sightings of wallabies and wombats abound. The two dining venues in the main lodge, with several fireplaces, and the Waldheim Alpine Spa, boasting views over Pencil Pine Creek, add extra flair.

Cradle Highlander

Tucked away among thick vegetation but only 200 metres from Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, these 16 unmistakably robust timber cabins radiate mountain vibes. Self-contained and in different sizes, they feature old-time furnishings seamlessly matching the timeless nature. Bonus: Pademelons often come by.

Discovery Parks

The wide range of options, from unpowered gravel sites to premium mountain cabins with heated floors, appeals to people from all walks of life. Whether you’re the one cooking in the shared camp kitchen or taking a bath in your private luxury unit, you will notice the friendly atmosphere.

Discovery Resorts

What used to be Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village is now flying high under the Discovery Parks brand. Browse super-comfy cottages nestled in the bush, each with a kitchenette and the most sought-after with a spa overlooking the tranquil surroundings. If you prefer to let someone else do the cooking, book a table at the on-site Hellyers Restaurant.

Cradle Mountain Hotel

Encompassing 60 rooms (standard, deluxe and split-level), the two connected wings with crackling fireplaces make lounging a true pleasure. Cosy up with a good book or a game of cards before or after trying the Altitude restaurant and bar, or perhaps a treatment at the spa, located side by side at the building’s heart.

Cradle Mountain National Park

Yes, you can stay inside Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, too. It does, however, involve Spartan living and, possibly, extensive hiking.

Sleeping in Cradle Mountain National Park

Waldheim Cabins

Idyllically set near Ronny Creek are eight simple bunk-bed cabins, sleeping up to four, six or eight guests. While each unit has a private kitchenette, the (well-kept) restroom facilities are shared. Check out the neighbouring Waldheim Chalet, a replica of the house where conservation pioneers Gustav and Kate Weindorfer lived in the early 1900s.

Overland Track

A bucket list adventure, the 65-km Overland Track is about becoming one with Tasmania‘s alpine wilderness. It runs from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair, with basic huts providing shelter along the way. Don’t try it without bushwalking experience.

More Cradle Mountain

Best things to do at Cradle Mountain