Sea to bush

Eggs Benedict at the Moby Dick breakfast bar whose mantra is "happiness is a good breakfast" sent me on my way from Stanley! 

Although I have visited the Highfield historic site before I called in before hitting the highway. Unfortunately it was closed but I wandered around the gardens impressed that anything managed to grow on this windswept hillside.

The road to Cradle passes through farm land and large areas of plantation eucalypt in various stages of growth.  In places old forest forms a canopy over the road before heading into an open, plain - like landscape. I called into Waratah,  once a bustling town supporting the Bishoff tin mine, now reduced to some 250 residents but obviously an active and considerate community.

I didn't bother stopping at Cradle view: leaden skies and mist shrouded mountain tops were  not worth the effort.

Checked into my cabin - it's beautifully appointed and nestled in bushland - then picked up maps and shuttle pass from the huge, modern VIC. All movement in the park is via this shuttle service which runs every 10 minutes from 8.15 am  to 6.0 pm. 

As the drizzle continued I opted to walk some of  the boardwalk from the interpretative centre towards Snake Hill - every second provides material for photography. I picked up the shuttle and took it down to check out Dove Lake. Here huge earth moving equipment parked everywhere plus construction sheds obviously mean more work is being done to maximise the Visitor experience! But is Cradle over loved? It is certainly hugely popular.

I hope the rain stops - but walking tomorrow no matter what!