I regularly get asked for recommendations about the logistics and practicalities of Eloping or Proposing in the Cradle Mountain area.
There’s a lot to cover so I’m hoping I can break it down along with
photographs and maps-screenshots to better inform your decision making process.
Planning the perfect Elopement or Proposal at Cradle Mountain.
Decisions to be made -
Micro-wedding or elopement (Large scale wedding not recommended) .
Ideal location.
What's the best time of year/ day for you.
Do you want to engage the services of a planner, stylist, photographer, or any other vendors (P.s I'd love to capture all of the magic).
Proposing - In my experience the best time of day by far to propose at Cradle Mountain is shortly after sunrise.
The benefits of this time of day are:
- Best light on the mountain (the side light really brings out the drama).
- Can drive all of the way in to Dove Lake, avoiding the cumbersome shuttle-bus process.
- Access to your vehicle.
- Less or no crowds.
Best local vendors at Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park.
I really enjoy visiting and taking photos at Cradle mountain, I therefore find myself in a minority of Tasmanian vendors that I know who will travel there. Given the remoteness of the region I do charge travel ontop of my usual fee.
If you’re putting together a vision a great place to start is The Tasmanian Wedding Directory . It’s a locally run vendor list and has way more local options than it’s rival directories.
Cost of a Cradle Mountain Elopement or Proposal.
The costs associated with a Cradle Mountain Elopement/ Proposal.
All guests + bride and groom are expected to have a valid park pass.
How to apply for a permit to hold a wedding ceremony in Cradle Mountain NP.
The application form and additional information can be found here, application.
Venues for your Tasmanian Mountain Wedding/ Elopement (Reception).
Nestled in the heart of Tasmanian wilderness world heritage area (TWWHA) are, not surprisingly, a gorgeous and iconic selection of venues.
Additionally your ceremony location can be arranged through parks & reception held at any of the venues in the area.
Additional things to consider
While National parks are revered for their natural setting & remoteness they are multi-use. You should expect to share your setting with other park users. If you’re so lucky not to, it's a bonus!
As much as a bridal bush-doof sounds off tap, responsible consumption of alcohol is encouraged by parks.
Unfortunately dogs aren't allowed in national parks.
Florals, flames & bands should be discussed with parks prior.
Cradle mountain is just over 2 hours from Launceston and 4.5 hours from Hobart.
Dove Lake Viewing Shelter
The new Dove lake viewing shelter is an engineering delight and magnificent piece of architecture. As such I'd encourage couples, if this way inclined, to take full advantage of the photo op's it holds.
For any other information I'm able to help with please don't hesitate to get in touch here.
Proposals - For much more info and photos if planning a proposal check out this blog.
Warmest regards, Daniel.
