Holidaymakers and daytrippers are drawn to the scores of intimate coves that conceal the turquoise waters lapping squeaky white sand. From the bicycle track that circumnavigates Rottnest Island, just 18 kms off the coast of Perth, Western Australia (known as ‘Rotto’ by locals) around each corner a new bay surprises with stunning coastal viastas. Some bays are large and sweeping with uninterrupted stretches of white sand. Others are distinctly intimate, defined by wind-carved limestone cliffs and wavecut platforms crafted by the wild Indian Ocean swells that batter this coast.
When To Visit
Summer is without doubt the most popular time to visit Rotto, with summer school holidays particularly busy. With a typically dry summer heat, relieved every afternoon by the fresh south westerly seabreeze, the northern side of the island is the most popular. Thomson Bay, with its shops, restaurants and famous bakery, forms the islands’ hub, and is just a short walk from the ferry terminal. This is also where the only public jetty on the island is available for private vessels to dock temporarily to take on fuel and water. A small number of casual pile pens are available here. Most vessels, however, head straight for Geordie or Longreach Bay, which are often packed with vessels of all sizes, either anchored or utilising the scores of public moorings scattered throughout the island.
Although the islands entertainment is predominantly water based, it is actually a year round destination. Indeed, for those that enjoy romantic weekends for two around a log fire, the cooler months between May and October are preferable.
Visitors wanting to truly immerse themselves in Rotto style should head straight to the bike hire depot. If you didn’t bring your own bicycle, you can hire one of the thousands from what must be the biggest bike shed in the country. As vehicles are not permitted, with the exception of the courtesy shuttle bus and island administration vehicles, cycling is the natural way to get around.
In fact, the style across the entire is similarly casual, even at the old Tearooms that recently underwent a swanky refurbishment to become the premier dining option. The Rottnest Hotel, known as the Quokka Arms after the small marsupial quokkas that are seen hopping all over the island, attracts large crowds of fun lovers attracted to the beer garden & bistro overlooking the azure bay. .
How To Get There
Ferries take about 30 minutes from Fremantle ,45 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour or 1 hour from the Perth CBD. For ferry timetables contact Oceanic Cruises, or Rottnest Express. Alternatively Rottnest Air Taxis operate light aircraft from Jandakot Airport.
Where To Stay
Accommodation is dotted about the island. Simple and casual is the theme, with timber floors and views to the ocean given high priority. Freestanding houses with their lattice-enclosed verandas are perfect for large groups or families. Modern whitewashed apartments blend into the dunes overlooking Longreach Bay. Ochres and sandstone colours dominate the non-intrusive buildings in this sensitive environment. Accommodation during busy school periods is allocated on a ballot system, often booked 12 months in advance. Contact the Rottnest Island Authority to make enquiries www.rottnestisland.com
So while Rottnest swells with the summer crowds enjoying the blazing West Australian sun, perhaps it’s a good time to plan that romantic winter island getaway. As the skies darken overhead, why not crank up the wood fire, open a bottle of Margaret River shiraz and watch the ferocious storms approaching from the west. For me, this is definitely the best time to curl up in a window seat with a loved one and enjoy the tranquillity of Rotto at its very best.
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