Trust me when I say that staying at the Waldheim Cabins is one of the best ways to experience Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain National Park. The Waldheim Cabins are the only accommodation available inside the national park itself. So, most visitors are restricted by the shuttle bus times. But, if you’re staying at the Waldheim huts, you’re already inside the park. With your own parking spot. What better way to catch the sunrise at Dove Lake or watch wombats snuffle around at sunset.
Nestled in the woods just uphill from Ronny Creek, there are 8 cabins in total. When I was there, only one other cabin was occupied. Talk about getting away from it all! This was exactly what I – a burnt-out corporate girl – needed. The huts themselves are basic, but all the essentials work. Each hut has its own kitchen (complete with oven – I had pizza!) and there is a shared amenities block with hot(!) showers. The heating in my hut was incredible. Despite visiting in early winter, I was warm and toasty.
What to see
Dove Lake: It’s a short drive to Dove Lake, or you can walk (30-40 mins). Once at the lake, take the track to the right leading to the boat shed. This little cove is a beautiful photo spot with a direct view of cradle mountain itself. You can continue along the loop track to walk a complete circuit of the lake.
Marion’s Lookout: The track to Marion’s Lookout starts from near the boat shed. This route is fairly steep but incredibly popular for the views over Dove Lake and Cradle Mountain. There’s also a longer but less steep route up via Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool.
Hanson’s Peak: If you take the track to the left instead, you can ascend to Hanson’s peak. This short but steep climb offers stunning views over Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. Best to only attempt this on a clear dry day as some sections are so steep that there are chains to hold on to to help pull yourself up.
Wombats: I’ve never seen so many wombats before. In the wild. Completely unfazed by my presence. If you’re a nature lover then the Waldheim cabins are perfect for you. The hill between Ronny Creek and the Waldheim cabins is where you are most likely to see wombats in Cradle Mountain National Park.
Facilities
The huts all have simple bunk beds (bedding on request for a separate small fee, or bring a sleeping bag). They are also equipped with a kitchen with running water, kettle, hob, oven, fridge and basic utensils (crockery, pots and pans, cutlery etc.). There is electricity and heating. Bathrooms are in a separate amenities block and have hot water showers and flushing loos.
How to get there
Cradle Mountain National Park is a 2 hour drive from Launceston airport. The easiest way to get to the cabins is by using your own car. Each cabin has a parking spot for one car. Alternatively, there is a shuttle bus between the visitor centre just outside the park and various stops in the park until Dove Lake. The shuttle bus runs during daylight hours only (times vary depending on the time of year).
Driving in Cradle Mountain National Park
Note that you are not allowed to self-drive in the park during shuttle bus hours unless you have special permission e.g. staying at the Waldheim cabins. Even then, you need shuttle bus escort if driving during the bus operating hours.
How to book
Book your stay via the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website here.
Need to know
You’ll need to purchase a parks pass to be allowed into Cradle Mountain National Park.
Read my other post What to see in Cradle Mountain National Park, Tasmania.
Read my other posts about Australia here: https://www.calloftheworld.com/category/oceania/australia/