We decided to head into Ulverstone for a bit of a look around, and we couldn't have picked a better spot for a leg-stretch than the banks of the Leven River. There’s something incredibly peaceful about a river walk, especially when the water is as still as a mirror.

As we wandered along the path, I noticed the old wooden pylons poking out of the glassy water near the shore. They look like old sentinels just watching the tide come and go, with the hills rolling away in the distance under a big, Tassie sky.

The peaceful Leven River with old wooden pylons reflected in the still water.
The peaceful Leven River with old wooden pylons reflected in the still water.

Further along, the river opens up and you get a real sense of the town’s connection to the water. We spent a good while watching the yachts bobbing about on their moorings. There’s a striking building right on the edge with a big, white architectural roof that looks like sails caught in the wind. It’s a beautiful contrast against that deep blue water and the clear sky we had for our walk.

Looking across the river at the boats and the unique white-roofed building on the waterfront.
Looking across the river at the boats and the unique white-roofed building on the waterfront.

By the time we finished our circuit, we’d certainly worked up an appetite. We found ourselves in the middle of town and spotted a bright little blue weatherboard building right near the crossing. It’s a cheerful-looking place, and it turned out to be the perfect spot to pull up for a bit of lunch.

The charming blue cafe where we stopped for a bite and some famous Tasmanian ice cream.
The charming blue cafe where we stopped for a bite and some famous Tasmanian ice cream.

Of course, once lunch was done, Lisa pointed out that we were in the home of Van Diemen Land ice cream. It would’ve been a crime to leave without a scoop, so we topped off the afternoon with some of the best local ice cream I’ve ever had. Lisa went for her usual favourite, and I didn't need much convincing to join her.

We headed back to our spot at West Ulverstone as the sun began to dip. We’ve really settled into the rhythm of things here, tucked in amongst the trees. Once the stars came out, I got the campfire going, and we sat there enjoying the quiet crackle of the wood.

It wasn't long before we realised we weren't alone. Out of the darkness and the thick ferns, a little visitor decided to see what we were up to. A small pademelon hopped right up to the edge of the light, its eyes reflecting the glow of our fire as it watched us from the scrub. It’s these quiet, unexpected encounters that make being on the road so special.

Our cheeky night-time visitor peering out from the ferns by our campfire.
Our cheeky night-time visitor peering out from the ferns by our campfire.

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