Cradle Mountain Lodge

This unique wilderness retreat enjoys a superb location on the edge of Tasmania’s World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park. Just a 2 hour drive from Launceston or a 1½ hour drive from Devonport, Cradle Mountain Lodge offers an invigorating mountain escape with breathtaking scenery and the opportunity for adventurous days rounded off with some of Tasmania’s finest food and wine.

In winter, you will be welcomed with an inviting log fire whilst in spring and summer, the beautiful wildflowers and forests of ancient trees entice you to put on your walking boots and do some exploring! There are more than 20 walking trails close by, ranging from 20 minute nature strolls to 8 hour treks scaling the face of Cradle Mountain itself. Horse riding, fishing, four wheel bike tours, mountain bike hire and canoeing on the crystal clear waters of Dove Lake are some of the other seasonal highlights available. A daily activities programme enables you to plan your days carefully - but if you are one of those for whom adventure means a good bottle of wine in a secluded setting, the Lodge will gladly make up a picnic for you - there are dozens of peaceful spots nearby, close to picturesque streams and waterfalls.

Accommodation is provided in 90 contemporary timber cabins styled with hand-made Tasmanian furnishings and discreetly set amidst the surrounding natural bush. Each has a cosy log fire - and there are no telephones or televisions, as you are encouraged to leave the outside world behind! Friendly wallabies, wombats and possums will often wait at your cabin door to greet you!

We recommend the stylish Spa Suites which feature a kingsize bed and large private verandah overlooking the bushland of the Cradle Valley. Inside, the warm glow of the log fire and a deep spa bath provide an inviting welcome.

For the ultimate indulgence, the four new spacious King Billy Suites boast a chic modern design with a separate bedroom and living area. Taking their name from the awe-inspiring 1500 year old King Billy Pines which grow near the Lodge, each of these suites has a kingsize bed, a double spa bath and a large outside deck with a private hot tub! A CD player, homemade cookies and complimentary fireside port with a selection of canapés delivered each evening, are just some of the extra touches provided for guests staying in the Spa and King Billy Suites.

And after a day’s hiking in the wilderness, you can relax and rejuvenate in the Lodge’s brand new Waldheim Alpine Spa - choose from an extensive menu of signature treatments, many of which use Tasmanian alpine ingredients.

PRICES Prices for 2 nights* including buffet breakfast daily from £184 per person in a Spa Suite or £256 per person in a King Billy Suite based on 2 people sharing. This *2 night Romantic Moments special also includes a wine and cheese tasting and a Spa voucher to the value of $100 per person. Flights to Australia vary in price considerably depending on date of departure though there are always good deals on quality airlines. Fares on Qantas/British Airways, for example can start from as little as £699 including taxes and fuel surcharges. From April 2008, Qantas will be introducing its all-new Premium Economy cabin. With dedicated check in, 40" seat pitch, extra width and enhanced meal service, all this extra luxury comes at a suprisingly low upgrade cost. Please ask your sales consultant for more details.