Off the Beaten Path

Who would have thought that the path to relaxation and rejuvenation would lie in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness? The Cradle Mountain – Lake St. Clair National Park, located in the northwest part of the island, is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and boasts a wild and diverse landscape ranging from ancient forest to glacial lakes.

A number of eco-friendly resorts can be found in or around the park and range from a ‘relaxing spa getaway’ to a ‘wilderness escape.’ The park’s lush background acts as a perfect setting for anyone looking to unwind and make a connection with nature. Last fall RealTravel blogger stuartsfraser had the chance to visit the park and actually hike up Cradle Mountain:

“It didn’t take long to reach the summit plateau but even here the going was awkward at times. I disappeared up to my waste in snow just 2m from the summit. It was a fantastic, fun route and possibly as challenging as I would want to attempt without any real winter gear with me. The views from the top were also absolutely superb.” (more…)

Travelers can take their pick of accommodations ranging from forest cabins to comfortable resorts. One such place is the Cradle Mountain Lodge which lies just on the edge of the park and offers 86 individual cabins to choose from depending on your preference. They range from deluxe luxury cabins that include their own spa and hot tub to smaller cabins with just the basic necessities. You can also expect fine food and Tasmanian wine to accompany your stay here as you explore the beautiful landscape. Other bonuses include restaurants, lounges, a wine cellar, close proximity to other attractions and a spa facility.

If something a bit more rustic is your cup of tea, then check out the Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages. Each cabin is custom built with uniquely different layouts that cater to the single traveler, couples, families as well as backpackers and small group accommodation. This is the ideal accommodation base for a Tasmanian outdoor adventure as you set out to explore the wilderness of the surrounding park.

For more upscale accommodations check out the Cradle Mountain Chateau—a 4 star eco-resort at the north end of the park. All rooms and suites are ground level and have private decks for wildlife viewing and woodland views. The more luxury rooms include king-sized beds and bathroom spas. This is the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking through the old-growth rain forests or strolling along cascading rivers.

Cradle Mountain is a great wilderness getaway to take your mind off the rapid pace of everyday life and help you unwind in a setting that is unlike any other in the world.

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When traveling to a new country, renting a car might just be the best way to see everything you want to see. Road tripping through Europe may not be what you think of when you plan a trip, but it is not only a great way to see the natural beauty that Europe has to offer, it’s one of the only ways to truly experience the small-town Europe that cannot be seen by just visiting the major cities.

Following RealTravelers Dementia Adventure through their road trip through Europe shows sides of the continent that are not usually seen by the average traveler. Beginning in Ireland, these travelers rented a car to see small town Ireland, visiting Bray, Cork, Castlebar, Blarney, and Dublin.

“We are at Castlebar tonight. The drive today was interesting as we progressed from the usual countryside with a sprinkling of houses all over the hills and valleys to no houses. We passed lots of areas where they had been digging peat and it left quite a mess.”

“The significant stop today was Kylemore Abbey which was completed in 1871. The property has a church, walled garden and family mausoleum all in an idyllic setting on the shores of a salmon lake. It was originally a family home but was taken over and restored by Benedictine Nuns. A beautiful place and the pictures tell the storey.” (More…)

These travelers not only explored Ireland by road, but they plan on taking their road trip to mainland Europe. As described by the travelers, “We are looking to cover an area of about 300km wide along the route the vans will take and drive in one car for an hour or so to get to the places of interest. Things are so close together and it is surprising what you can get to. We have a general route in mind but it will not be firm until a day or so in advance.”

Read more about Dementia Adventure’s tour through Europe for ideas and advice on how to make a road trip both economical and fun.

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