Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Cradle Mountain

Tasmania

Traveling to Cradle Mountain as a family is a chance to visit one of Australia’s most iconic and recognisable landmarks. This place is incredible. With multiple walks, hikes, and treks, filled with mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and rivers, it is a natural wonderland. It also snows here a lot, so be prepared all year round for it to be cold. We went in January and still needed normal winter clothes we would normally wear back home in Coffs Harbour.

Accommodation: Gowrie Park Wilderness Village

We stayed at Gowrie Park Wilderness Village for a few nights. It was about 30 minutes northeast of Cradle Mountain and the closest place to stay with a van outside of the Discovery Park at Cradle Mountain.

Day 1: Exploring Dove Lake

Our first day was spent as a group, with Ella’s mum and her partner Gary joining us. We visited Dove Lake and then walked back to the Ronnie Creek car park. We spent equal parts around Dove Lake, taking our time to enjoy the scenery. The track back to Ronnie Creek car park took about 80 minutes of walking with the kids. We were lucky to see one wombat on the track. When Ella and I did this in 2016 in September, we saw many more wombats. We assume that the hotter temperature kept the wombats out of the sun.

Day 2: Climbing Marion’s Lookout and Family Walks

On the second day, Ella, Mel, and Gary climbed Marion’s Lookout. They had a blast, and it took them around 3 to 4 hours for the return trip. Meanwhile, the kids and I did some short walks around the Enchanted Forest, Pencil Pines Falls, and Knyvet Falls. The walks took less than an hour, with plenty of stops for snacks and wombat spotting.

Visiting Devils @ Cradle

The kids and I then went to Devils @ Cradle. This experience was fantastic for the boys, as the enclosures were well-suited for young kids. It was also reasonably priced for a prime attraction in the area.

Tips for Visiting Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain can be done as a day trip from nearly anywhere on the northwest coast, or even Launceston. However, if you plan to stay closer, ensure you have enough food supplies, as shopping is limited.

Driving with a Caravan

Driving the caravan from Devonport to Gowrie Park was an eye-opener. I hadn’t driven on such narrow roads with the van before, but traffic was minimal. This set the tone for most of the driving done with the caravan off the major highways. There’s roadkill everywhere too, so it pays to be very attentive.

Traveling to Cradle Mountain as a family was a memorable experience, filled with breathtaking scenery and adventures. Whether you’re hiking, wombat spotting, or exploring the local attractions, Cradle Mountain offers something for everyone.

Kalbarri

Kalbarri

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Kalbarri

Western Australia

Kalbarri, situated on the Mid West coast of Western Australia, is a charming surf and fishing town filled with beautiful shops, an amazing river, stunning beaches, a world-class surf break, and an incredible national park. Traveling to Kalbarri as a family was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, offering a variety of activities that catered to everyone.

Exploring the Natural Wonders

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Skywalk and Nature’s Window. Located just a 30-minute drive into Kalbarri National Park, these attractions offer two very easy walks with breathtaking views. The family-friendly trails made it an enjoyable experience for all, allowing us to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Coastal Adventures

Kalbarri’s coastline is dotted with spectacular spots perfect for exploring and enjoying sunsets. Red Bluff, Pot Alley, and the Kalbarri Cliffs were our top three favorites. Each location offered unique and stunning scenery that left us in awe. These spots are ideal for a leisurely walk or simply soaking in the beauty of the rugged coast.

Snorkeling at Blue Pools

For a more interactive experience, we headed to Blue Pools. This fantastic snorkeling area is protected from fishing, making it a haven for abundant marine life. The kids loved exploring the underwater world, spotting colorful fish and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Blue Pools is a must-visit for families looking to experience the ocean up close.

River Adventures

Hiring a boat was another highlight of our trip. We rented a tinny and spent the day cruising down the river. No boat license is required, making it a hassle-free experience. The river’s calm waters provided a peaceful setting for our exploration, and the kids enjoyed the sense of adventure as we navigated the scenic riverbanks.

Surfing at Jakes Point

For the more adventurous, Jakes Point offers an incredible surfing experience. Known for its brilliant waves, this surf break is ideal for advanced surfers. The views are spectacular, adding to the thrill of riding the waves. While not all of us were up for the challenge, watching the surfers in action was a memorable part of our trip.

Scenic Drive from Geraldton

Traveling to Kalbarri as a family was a breeze from Geraldton. The scenic drive through beautiful landscapes set the tone for our adventure. The journey itself was a delightful part of our trip, adding to the overall experience of exploring this picturesque town.

Traveling to Kalbarri as a family offered us a perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. With its diverse range of activities and stunning scenery, Kalbarri is an ideal destination for families looking to create unforgettable memories.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast

by | Jul 22, 2024 | Locations, Queensland

Exploring the
Gold Coast

New South Wales

Travel to the Gold Coast as a family, and you’ll experience a destination that is both beautiful and bustling. This vibrant region is expanding rapidly, blending industrial and coastal elements seamlessly. While the size and busyness might deter some travel families, those willing to brave the traffic will find an abundance of attractions and activities to enjoy.

Where to Stay

The Gold Coast offers numerous caravan parks located in the north, central, and south areas. We chose to stay for two weeks at Kirra Caravan Park. This spot was perfect for us, as we love surfing and it provided a great base for exploring the surrounding areas. Its proximity to the beach and various attractions made it an ideal choice for our family.

What to Do

Beyond the obvious theme parks and a multitude of activities like go-karting and indoor play centers, the Gold Coast offers some unique and fun adventures:

Burleigh Hill

Burleigh Hill is perfect for a family picnic. Afterward, you can head to the beach for a swim and enjoy the playground with the kids. The scenic views and relaxed atmosphere make it a wonderful spot to spend a day.

Coolangatta

Coolangatta boasts an amazing beach, fun shopping opportunities, and two great playgrounds. A highlight is the walk around the headland to Rainbow Bay, offering stunning coastal views and a chance to explore more of the area’s natural beauty.

Currumbin Valley

For an incredible rainforest adventure, head to Cougal Cascade in Currumbin Valley. The lush greenery and cascading waters provide a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast.

Tallebudgera Creek

Known as the jewel of the Gold Coast, Tallebudgera Creek is perfect for family swimming. The calm, clear waters are ideal for a relaxing day out with the kids.

Springbrook National Park

Springbrook National Park offers a beautiful scenic forest walk to the natural bridge. This picturesque spot is perfect for nature lovers and provides a serene environment for family exploration.

Lamington National Park

Venture out to Canungra for breakfast and then head to Lamington National Park for some of the Gold Coast’s most pristine rainforest adventures. The park is home to waterfalls and diverse wildlife, making it a fantastic destination for a day trip.

Getting Around the Gold Coast

Navigating the Gold Coast with a caravan is manageable despite the traffic. The area is quite built up, so it’s essential to be aware, give yourself enough room to brake and turn, and you’ll be as good as gold. The well-maintained roads and clear signage help make the journey smooth and stress-free.

Travel to the Gold Coast as a family, and you’ll find a destination brimming with excitement and natural beauty. Whether it’s exploring Burleigh Hill, enjoying Coolangatta, or adventuring in Springbrook and Lamington National Parks, the Gold Coast offers unforgettable experiences for every member of the family.

South Durras

South Durras

by | Jul 22, 2024 | Locations, New South Wales

Exploring
South Durras

New South Wales

Travel to South Durras as a family, and you’ll find a beautiful spot in NSW located just 25 minutes north of Batemans Bay. It offers a fantastic alternative to staying in Batemans Bay, while still being close enough to utilize its services and shopping. South Durras is a charming destination that provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience.

Staying at NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort

South Durras has a few caravan parks and other holiday accommodations. We stayed at NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort, which was perfect for us.

If you’ve been following our travels, you know we love NRMA Holiday Parks, and this park quickly became one of our favorites. With a dedicated pool and restaurant area, playground, large central grassed area, and even an indoor activity area for the kids, it had everything we needed. The park also offered direct access to the beach and plenty of wildlife, making our stay even more enjoyable.

For those of us on the road full-time, it was a real treat to feel carpet under our feet and sit on a couch for the first time in six months. The comfort and amenities at this park made it a true home away from home.

Exploring South Durras

While South Durras doesn’t have much in terms of infrastructure, nature more than makes up for it. Here are some of the highlights:

Mill Point

Mill Point is a great rocky headland to walk around. The views are stunning, and it’s a wonderful place for a family hike and to take in the natural beauty of the area.

Cookies Beach

Ella had a great time surfing at Cookies Beach, enjoying some fantastic waves. This beach is perfect for surfing enthusiasts and those who love spending time by the ocean.

Depot Beach

A short drive north takes you to Depot Beach, one of NSW’s best beaches. The pristine sands and clear waters are simply breathtaking, making it well worth the visit.

Pebbly Beach

Another short drive north leads to Pebbly Beach, a secluded beach and campground that is well worth exploring. The serene environment and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect spot for a family outing.

Getting to South Durras

The drive off the highway to South Durras is a bit tight, with narrow roads and plenty of wildlife to keep an eye on. However, it shouldn’t be daunting if you take your time and remain aware of the potential wildlife. The journey itself is part of the adventure, leading you to this beautiful, secluded destination.

Travel to South Durras as a family, and you’ll discover a destination that perfectly balances natural beauty and convenience. Whether it’s exploring Mill Point, surfing at Cookies Beach, or relaxing at NRMA Murramarang Beachfront Holiday Resort, South Durras offers a memorable experience for every family member.

Broulee

Broulee

by | Jul 22, 2024 | Locations, New South Wales

Exploring
Broulee

New South Wales

Travel to Broulee as a family, and you’ll discover one of New South Wales’ hidden gems. Just 20 minutes south of Batemans Bay, Broulee is a beautiful surf village that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. This makes it an ideal spot for a family getaway, especially for those traveling in a caravan.

Staying at NRMA Holiday Park

Our stay at the recently rebranded NRMA Holiday Park in Broulee was nothing short of delightful. The park boasts a fantastic pool and direct beach access, which made our days both fun and relaxing. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the facilities were top-notch, ensuring we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay.

Exploring Broulee Beaches

Broulee is home to two main beaches: Broulee Beach and South Broulee Beach. These are separated by the charming Broulee Island, which features its own secluded bay, Shark Bay. Exploring Broulee Island and Shark Bay was a highlight for our family, and it was easy to navigate even with young kids. The island’s trails and the bay’s calm waters provided a perfect setting for little adventures.

Fun at South Broulee Beach

Our days were primarily spent at South Broulee Beach. This fantastic open beach functions like a point break, making it an excellent spot for surfing, swimming, and playing. The protection from northerly winds ensured great conditions for beach activities, and we took full advantage of the waves and the sun.

Dining at Broulee Brewhouse

A visit to Broulee Brewhouse is a must for families. With its fantastic food, welcoming atmosphere, and a selection of locally crafted beers and mixers, it was a hit with everyone.

Nearby Attractions

We also enjoyed exploring the nearby areas of Mossy Point and Tomakin, where we found charming cafes and beautiful nature spots perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Getting There

Getting to Broulee with a caravan is quite straightforward. The short drive off the highway was smooth, with decent road conditions all the way. This ease of access, combined with the stunning locale and excellent facilities, made our trip incredibly enjoyable.

In conclusion, travel to Broulee as a family, and you’ll find a destination that perfectly balances beauty and convenience. Whether it’s surfing at South Broulee Beach, exploring Broulee Island, or enjoying a meal at Broulee Brewhouse, there’s something for everyone in this delightful surf village.