Cradle Mountain Day 2

The day wasn't what we had been hoping for as rain was forecast  for the first part of the day. We had wanted to do the Dove lake walk again but it would be no fun in the rain. Instead we decided on a leisurely start to the day and stay warm in front of the fire until around 1100 AM, when the rain eased. In a very light drizzle, we made our way to the shuttle bus and went out to the Cradle Mountain Lodge. The plan was to have a lunch here and then do the walk when the weather had cleared. You can drive to the lodge, but why would you when you have paid for the bus anyway. 

The lodge itself is very reminiscent of the chalets we had seen in our European trip last year with dorma windows across the roof, and nestled alongside a small lake. The lodge is a very busy place on wet days with everyone clambering for the seat by the fire, regardless of it actually giving  off heat. We snaffled a seat fairly close and settled in for lunch. The meals were quite good and priced according to the location. You need to remember that everything has a decent hike to get here so prices do reflect that. 

Our plans to walk Dove lake were rapidly disappearing, as we enjoyed our lunch. The weather had cleared but our stomachs said no. Instead we opted for the easy option, the Enchanted Walk. This takes you on a boardwalk through a rainforest, entering a marshland filled with button grass, and culminating in an open plain. The 3 different environments are all so close to each other, yet so far apart in appearance. The entire walk from the lodge takes around 20 minutes and is a great way to walk off lunch.

As luck would have it,we timed our arrival back at the ranger station just as the bus arrived so we were back at the cabin soon after. With the fire stocked up we settled in for a rest and do a bit of washing to see us through to the end of our holiday. A clothes rack in front of the fire had our washing dry pretty quickly.

We didn't get to do the Dove lake walk but we would recommend it as it is a relatively easy walk and the views are spectacular. It will take around 2-3 hours depending on ability, just like the Crater lake walk.