Geraldton

by Ella | Jul 25, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Geraldton

Western Australia

Traveling to Geraldton as a family was a delightful experience, providing a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Geraldton, a port city in Mid West Western Australia, offers a range of activities and sights that cater to all ages. The city is large enough to offer all the necessary services for a comfortable stay but remains charmingly manageable compared to bustling port cities like Geelong and Newcastle.

Family Fun at the Foreshore

The Geraldton Foreshore is a fantastic spot for family activities. With two great playgrounds and easy beach access, it’s an ideal place for kids to play and for the family to relax by the water. The well-maintained facilities and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit during your stay.

Beach Adventures

Geraldton boasts several stunning beaches that are perfect for family outings.

Back Beach is fantastic for both families and surfing enthusiasts. The beach features a playground located on the backside of the sand dunes near the car park and surf club, ensuring that kids have plenty of options for fun both in and out of the water.

Drummond Cove offers the unique experience of driving on the beach. Finding a spot to surf and explore with the family here was a highlight of our trip. The sense of adventure and the beautiful surroundings made it an unforgettable experience.

Coronation Beach is renowned as the windsurfing capital of Australia. A few kilometers down the beach, there is a good longboard wave accessible via a fun 4WD track. This adventure was a hit with the entire family, combining the thrill of off-roading with the joy of discovering new surf spots.

Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

When the weather didn’t cooperate, we found some great indoor activities to keep the kids entertained. The Museum of Geraldton was a standout. Ella took the boys there on a rainy day, and they couldn’t stop talking about the interactive exhibits and engaging activities designed for children.

Another excellent wet-weather alternative was The House Café and Play Centre. This indoor playground was well-priced and kept the kids entertained for hours. The combination of good food and a fun play area made it a favorite spot for the family.

Accommodation

We stayed at Belair Gardens Caravan Park, conveniently located near Pages Beach playground. The park had its own playground and pool, which the kids loved. The staff were friendly and helpful, although the sites in the area we stayed were a bit tight. If you can, book a spot in the back section of the park, where the sites are much larger and more comfortable.

Easy Travel

Driving to Geraldton from Jurien Bay was a breeze. The 2-hour drive was easy and pleasant, thanks to Western Australia’s long, straight roads, which are a refreshing change from the often winding and busy roads of the east coast.

Traveling to Geraldton as a family was an enriching experience, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and fun for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, engaging indoor activities, and family-friendly facilities, Geraldton is a perfect destination for family travel.

Ulverstone

by Ella | Jul 25, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Ulverstone

Tasmania

Traveling to Ulverstone as a family

When we initially planned our trip, Ulverstone was not on our list of destinations. However, when our 30-year-old fridge started giving us trouble, it became clear we needed an upgrade. Caravan repairs can be difficult to schedule, but we were fortunate to find a supplier of Bushman fridges in nearby Penguin who could order and install a new fridge quickly. This unexpected turn led us to spend a week in Ulverstone, a week that turned out to be filled with fantastic adventures.

A Week of Surprises and Joy

Our week in Ulverstone, which we initially thought would be a write-off, turned out to be a delightful surprise. One of the highlights was catching up with friends from Coffs, which was a massive treat for us.

We stayed at Apex Beachside Holiday Park in West Ulverstone, and it was an absolute blast. One of the most amazing experiences was seeing penguins walking around our caravan most nights. This park was not only reasonably priced but also offered us a front-row seat to nature’s wonders.

Exploring Leven Canyon

One of our memorable adventures was visiting Leven Canyon. The canyon itself is incredible, with breathtaking views and a rugged, challenging walk that took us through the circuit. While the numerous stairs and steps made it tough for the kids, we persevered and were rewarded with stunning scenery.

Discovering Penguin

The nearby town of Penguin was another gem. We enjoyed a visit to the great playground there and indulged in some fun shopping. Penguin is a cute seaside town with a charming atmosphere, perfect for a family outing.

Relaxing at Bannons Park

While searching for waterfalls, we stumbled across Bannons Park, an off-grid area where we enjoyed a barbecue and a swim. This cute park provided a peaceful and refreshing break from our busy itinerary.

Visiting Delaneys Falls

Delaneys Falls was another highlight of our stay. This waterfall, with its easy walk and picturesque setting, was a pleasant excursion for the whole family.

Easy Accessibility

One of the convenient aspects of Ulverstone is its accessibility. The drive is easy, with a short trip off the highway, making it a stress-free destination for families traveling with kids.

In conclusion, what began as a necessary detour for a fridge repair turned into a week of unexpected adventures and cherished memories. If you ever find yourself traveling to Ulverstone as a family, embrace the opportunities it offers—you might be as pleasantly surprised as we were.

Next stop for you could be Stanley, Cradle Mountain or Bay of Fires!

Longford

by Ella | Jul 23, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Longford

Tasmania

Traveling to Longford as a family offered us an exceptional opportunity to explore the heart of Tasmania. This quaint, historic town, just 20 minutes south of Launceston, became our perfect base for our adventures in central Tasmania. We stayed at the picturesque Longford Riverside Caravan Park, nestled on the banks of the Macquarie River. The park provided great facilities and friendly staff, making our stay pleasant and comfortable.

Launceston: The Hub of Convenience

Launceston, being so close, was our go-to city for all our needs. Whether it was stocking up on supplies, getting a car service, or indulging in fast food, Launceston had it all. The city also boasts a variety of attractions that kept the kids entertained. From interactive museums to beautiful parks, there was no shortage of activities to fill our days.

The Majestic Liffy Falls

A highlight of our trip was visiting Liffy Falls, about an hour’s drive from Longford. The journey itself was breathtaking, showcasing the best of central Tasmania’s landscapes. Liffy Falls is undoubtedly one of Australia’s premier waterfall systems. Ella, our adventure-loving daughter, braved the freezing waters for a swim, though the rest of us were content to admire the falls from the sidelines.

Delightful Longford Berries

Our visit to Longford Berries was another family favorite. This charming berry-picking spot offered incredible ice cream and strawberry gin tasting, much to the delight of both the kids and adults. The small playground kept the little ones busy while we enjoyed the warm hospitality of the owners. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and fun, making it a memorable stop on our journey.

The Scenic Great Lake

We dedicated half a day to exploring Great Lake, a trip that involved a lot of driving and sightseeing. Situated in the middle of Tasmania, this area is known for its cooler temperatures. Even in summer, it was quite chilly, but the stunning scenery made it worthwhile. The vast, serene lake and its surrounding landscapes were a testament to Tasmania’s natural beauty.

Discovering Honeycomb Caves

Our adventure took an unexpected turn when we stumbled upon Honeycomb Caves near Mole Creek. While the famous Mole Creek caves require booking and come with a fee, Honeycomb Caves offered a free and flexible alternative. This off-grid camping area featured a fascinating underground creek system that we could explore. Ella, ever the brave soul, took a dip in the frigid 8-degree water, adding to her collection of daring swims.

Easy Access to Longford

Driving to Longford was a breeze, thanks to the almost entirely dual-lane highway. This ease of access made our travels smooth and stress-free, allowing us to focus on enjoying our time together as a family.

Traveling to Longford as a family was a delightful experience filled with stunning landscapes, charming local spots, and plenty of adventure. From the historic town’s hospitality to the natural wonders of central Tasmania, every moment was a cherished memory.

Stanley

by Ella | Jul 23, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Stanley

Tasmania

Nestled on the North West coast of Tasmania, Stanley is the largest town in the region, boasting historic charm and serving as a hub for surrounding fishing villages. With its scenic landscapes and quaint atmosphere, Traveling to Stanley as a family offers a perfect getaway for families seeking adventure and relaxation.

Getting to Stanley

Traveling to Stanley as a family will most likely include either traveling west from Devonport or Launceston. This route takes you through several major towns where you can stock up on essentials before reaching Stanley. Alternatively, you might come from the south, passing through towns like Strahan, Queenstown, or Zeehan. Having previously driven this route in a small campervan, we decided against taking our caravan due to the challenging roads.

Our journey from Gowrie Park to Stanley involved backtracking to Devonport before heading along the coast. The initial part of the drive was narrow and winding, but after Devonport, the road transformed into a major highway, making the drive as easy as it gets in Tasmania.

A Delightful Stop at Tuckers Beach Strawberry Farm

On our way to Stanley, we stopped for lunch at Tuckers Beach Strawberry Farm. This place was a highlight of our trip. With incredible food, a great play area for the kids, and the opportunity to pick your own strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, it was a perfect family stop. The kids loved exploring the farm and tasting the fresh berries straight from the vine.

Accommodation at Big 4 Stanley

We stayed at the Big 4 Stanley for our four-day visit. It was one of the few parks where you didn’t have to pay for showers, a small but appreciated detail. The facilities were excellent, and the staff were friendly and accommodating, making our stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Exploring Stanley

Walking The Nut

One of the must-do activities in Stanley is trekking The Nut, a volcanic plug that stands out as one of Australia’s most unique landmarks. The walk up and around The Nut is a fun couple of kilometers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. We tackled it on a particularly windy day, but it seems that windy conditions are more common than calm ones in this region.

Surfing at Godfrey’s Beach

Ella managed to squeeze in a surf session at Godfrey’s Beach on a day when the winds were offshore and the waves were clean. This iconic spot provided an unforgettable surfing experience, even if it was brief.

Dinner at Hursey Seafoods

Mel and Gary kindly took care of the kids one evening, allowing us to enjoy a date night at Hursey Seafoods. The seafood was exceptional, and we had a wonderful time dining in this charming restaurant, making it one of the memorable highlights of our trip.

Greenpoint Beach

We also took a drive to Greenpoint Beach, about an hour away, to check the surf. Although the wind wasn’t favorable that day, the raw beauty of this remote beach was evident. It’s renowned for being a great surfing spot, and we could easily see its potential.

National Park Drives

Stanley is surrounded by accessible nature reserves and national parks. We took the time to explore some of Australia’s most remote forests, immersing ourselves in the tranquility and beauty of the natural environment.

Traveling to Stanley as a family provided us with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. From trekking up The Nut to enjoying fresh seafood, Stanley offered something for everyone. If you’re planning a family trip, Stanley should definitely be on your list.

Cradle Mountain

by Ella | 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

by Ella | 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.