Ulverstone

Ulverstone

by | 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!

Stanley

Stanley

by | 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

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.