Experience the variety of Tasmania’s landscapes, from the North Coast’s patchwork agricultural hinterland to Cradle Mountain on the edge of the Heritage Wilderness Area. Cradle Country has it all – families will love the open air of the picture-perfect area!
Fun things to do in Cradle Country with the family
The primary part of Tasmania’s Cradle Country is Sheffield. Known to be the town of murals, the first mural unveiled in Sheffield was in 1986, and the town has grown on this reputation over the years. Now there are over 100 murals around Sheffield for the family to gaze upon. Learn more about the local area and historical figures behind the artworks with the Kentish Mural Walking Tour App. Mum and Dad will love the artwork at the Art Etude Marble Studio, but it isn’t just for the adults – the kids will be spellbound by all the marble mazes that they can play with and explore.
Just out of Sheffield is Tasmazia, a kids paradise! The magical world of Tasmazia is nestled in the Promised Land, situated in the heart of Cradle Mountain and the Lakes District. Tasmazia is a superb family activity in Cradle Country, complete with three mazes, a kids area and the Village of Lower Crackpot, which has model buildings from all over the world. It will have the kids running around entertained all day long with its many fun attractions. But it isn’t just for the kids – Tasmazia offers plenty of activities for adults too. Eat, drink and get lost in a maze – what more could you want?
Linking Sheffield with nearby towns is the Wild Mersey mountain bike trail – Tasmania’s only trail that spans three towns! Add over 100 kilometres of trails of riding climbs, cross-country and gravity endure to make for one sick ride. Two-wheel enthusiasts will love this switchback paradise. But it doesn’t have to be a journey on wheels – with Cradle Country Adventures, hop on horseback to span the eye-catching scenery in a unique way!
Lake Barrington, famous for its world class rowing course, is nearby and a must visit. For those who love to fish, Lake Barrington is synonymous for its big fish. King sized fish for anglers are ripe for the picking, while thrill-seekers can also indulge in swimming, water skiing, power boating and canoeing on this calm inland lake.
Right up the very top of the Tiers is the imposing Cradle Mountain. It’s full of beautiful mountain scenery, lakes, walking tracks and wildlife, as well as terrific views of Tasmania’s wonderful inland landscape. The mountain has a number of walking tracks that take you through the National Park allowing you to take in the scenery and see some native wildlife that live on the mountain. Some of the walks take you through old growth rainforests and past breath-taking lakes. Go at your own pace or do a tour. The kids might be surprised how much they enjoy the walks! Overnight accommodation in lodges is available, or camping for the brave hearted!
For more kids entertainment in Cradle Country, look no further than Devils @ Cradle. This alpine sanctuary is especially for the Tasmanian Devil and is located at the entrance to the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain National Park. It has amazing after dark feeding tours. The unique sanctuary concentrates mainly on the rare Tasmanian Devil, but also hosts spotted-tail and Eastern quolls – with the Devil, these three animals are some of the world’s largest carnivorous marsupials and are also threatened species. Instead of searching hard in the wilderness for a glimpse of these uncommon animals, the sanctuary’s visitor centre and tours can give the family a memorable encounter in a beautiful part of Tasmania.
With so much to see in Cradle Country, get the family out and about in nature now!
