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16 Mar 2025Updated last time
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Stanley to Cradle Mountain Road Trip Ititnerary

Stanley to Cradle Mountain Road Trip Overview

Embark on a spectacular road trip through the stunning landscapes of Tasmania, starting from the charming coastal town of Stanley. This journey will captivate you with its breathtaking coastal views, rich history, and serene natural beauty. Begin your adventure in Stanley, where you can explore its well-preserved colonial architecture and enjoy panoramic vistas of the ocean. Don't miss The Nut State Reserve, a unique volcanic landform offering remarkable views and invigorating hikes.

As you travel inland, make a stop at Dip Falls, set amidst lush forests, showcasing enchanting waterfalls and fascinating basalt columns. Continuing your journey, you'll encounter the untouched beauty of Rocky Cape National Park, where a combination of rugged seascapes and ancient Aboriginal heritage awaits exploration.

The next leg of the trip takes you to Hellyer Gorge, a tranquil spot that delights visitors with its picturesque rainforest setting and winding river, perfect for a peaceful picnic. Your ultimate destination is the renowned Cradle Mountain, a highlight of Tasmania, famed for its awe-inspiring alpine scenery and diverse wildlife. Here, you'll find yourself immersed in nature's grandeur, with opportunities for hiking the famous Overland Track and spotting iconic Tasmanian wildlife.

This road trip promises an unforgettable blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect itinerary for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to experience Tasmania's majestic landscape.


Recommended Activities

  • Stanley is a charming coastal town known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, historic sites, and stunning ocean views, offering a glimpse into Tasmania's rich history and natural beauty.
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    The Nut State Reserve

    The Nut State Reserve features an iconic volcanic plug that rises dramatically from the ocean, providing visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
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  • Dip Falls showcases a unique and spectacular waterfall set amidst a lush forest, with interesting basalt columns and a viewing platform that allows visitors to appreciate its full grandeur.
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    Rocky Cape National Park

    Rocky Cape National Park offers stunning coastal views, ancient Aboriginal rock shelters, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for hiking, photography, and cultural exploration.
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    Hellyer Gorge

    Hellyer Gorge is a tranquil spot known for its scenic drive, lush rainforest settings, and cascading river, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and a perfect spot for a picnic.
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    Cradle Mountain

    Cradle Mountain is renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and world-famous walking tracks, such as the Overland Track, offering a quintessential Tasmanian wilderness experience.
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Restaurants

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    Xanders Restaurant

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    Xanders Restaurant

    Located in Stanley, this charming eatery offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu focused on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of Tasmanian cuisine.
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    Stanley Hotel Bistro

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    Stanley Hotel Bistro

    A historic venue in Stanley known for its traditional pub fare with a modern twist, offering local seafood and hearty meals with character-rich surroundings.
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    Boat Harbour Beach Surf Club Cafe

    4.7

    Boat Harbour Beach Surf Club Cafe

    Perched by Boat Harbour Beach, this cafe offers stunning coastal views and a laid-back setting to enjoy light meals and fresh seafood.
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    The Chapel

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    The Chapel

    Located in Burnie, The Chapel is a unique cafe set in a former church, offering specialty coffee, homemade treats, and a quirky atmosphere.
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    Cradle Mountain Hotel - Altitude Restaurant & Lounge Bar

    3.7

    Cradle Mountain Hotel - Altitude Restaurant & Lounge Bar

    Situated in the heart of Cradle Mountain, this restaurant combines breathtaking views with a menu featuring fine local produce, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
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Stay Recommendations

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    Horizon Deluxe Apartments

    4.9

    Horizon Deluxe Apartments

    Located in Stanley, these luxurious apartments offer stunning views of The Nut and the coastline, featuring modern amenities and spacious living areas for a comfortable stay.
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    Stanley Seaview Inn

    4.4

    Stanley Seaview Inn

    Offering panoramic views over Stanley and the surrounding ocean, this inn provides a cozy and relaxing retreat with easy access to local attractions.
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    Boat Harbour Garden Cottages

    4.8

    Boat Harbour Garden Cottages

    Nestled in a beautiful garden setting near Boat Harbour Beach, these charming cottages provide a unique and peaceful escape with close proximity to the beach.
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    The Waterfront Wynyard

    4.6

    The Waterfront Wynyard

    Situated on the banks of the Inglis River, this boutique motel offers colorful retro-style accommodations and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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    Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

    4.3

    Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

    Adjacent to the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, this lodge offers a luxurious wilderness experience with cozy cabins and access to breathtaking natural trails.
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Lawrence Mooney - Dead Set Country

    Lawrence Mooney - Dead Set Country

    Approximate Running Times: Doors - 7.30pm Start - 8.00pm Finish - 9.20pm Mooneys gone country. Deep country. Dead Set Country. He likes the word country because it's got a rude word in it if you EMPHasise it properly. Dead Set Country is a new hour o...
    Map IconCountry Club Tasmania in Prospect Vale (88.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon16 Aug 2025
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    The Roy Orbison Story

    The Roy Orbison Story

    Approximate Running Times: Doors: 7.00pm Start: 7.30pm Finish: 9:10pm Experience the wonder of Roy Orbison in this brilliant theatrical portrayal of the man, his music, his voice, & his life. You will find yourself believing you are in his presence, ...
    Map IconCountry Club Tasmania in Prospect Vale (88.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon23 Aug 2025
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    Burning Red

    Burning Red

    Approximate Running Times: Doors - 7.00pm Start - 7.30pm Finish - 10.10pm Burning Red The Australian Tay Tay Tribute Show is a 160 minute concertexperience, fullproduction show for ALL AGES, designed tohonour the magic of ALL Swifts diverse musical E...
    Map IconCountry Club Tasmania in Prospect Vale (88.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon12 Sep 2025
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    Echoes of Pink Floyd

    Echoes of Pink Floyd

    Approximate Running Times: Doors - 7:30pm Start - 8:00pm Finish - 10:40pm Iconic British rock band, Pink Floyd left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring generations with their ground-breaking soundscapes and thought-provoking lyrics. 2025 marks ...
    Map IconCountry Club Tasmania in Prospect Vale (88.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Sep 2025
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    Forever 80s - Back to the 80s

    Forever 80s - Back to the 80s

    Approximate Running Times: Doors - 7:30pm Start - 8:00pm Finish - 10:00pm
    Map IconCountry Club Tasmania in Prospect Vale (88.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Sep 2025
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    Santana & The Doobie Brothers Tribute

    Santana & The Doobie Brothers Tribute

    Approximate Running Times: Doors - 7:00pm Start - 7:30pm Finish - 10:00pm Get ready for an electrifying night of classic rock as Dino Jag & The Mighty Big deliver their world class tribute to two of the most legendary rock supergroups Santana & The D...
    Map IconCountry Club Tasmania in Prospect Vale (88.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon10 Oct 2025
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    Rebecca O'Connor 'Simply The Best' as Tina Turner

    Rebecca O'Connor 'Simply The Best' as Tina Turner

    Approximate Running Times: Doors - 7:300pm Start - 8:00pm Finish - 10:10pm Get ready for the ultimate Tina Turner experience! In 2025, Rebecca O'Connor will set stages ablaze with a high-octane tribute to the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. "You want some ac...
    Map IconCountry Club Tasmania in Prospect Vale (88.06 mi)
    Calendar Icon17 Oct 2025
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