Winter on Rottnest Island | Perth Urban List

There is something special about traveling during the winter. Being greeted by the fresh and energizing air each morning, walking the coastal and forest paths hearing only the crunch of leaves under your feet, strolling along the beach with no other soul in sight and, of course, you. relax by the fire at night. It’s hard to beat this feeling.

While we all know the charms of Wadjemup / Rottnest Island during the warmer months, there is more to discover under the magnificent veil of winter. With less crowds (and fewer bugs!), You’d be forgiven for thinking you have the whole place to yourself.

Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, it’s easy to slip away to this winter wonderland for a cheeky midweek night or even just for the day, and even easier to switch into vacation mode.

Here’s your guide to seeing the other side of Rottnest Island this winter.

Hike the trails and connect with nature

From coastal sunrise walks to nature hikes through the heart of the island, one of the best ways to see the other side of Rottnest is on foot. Wadjemup Bidi (Bidi in Noongar means “path” or “track”) is a 45 km trail divided into several sections. Thanks to its spectacular landscapes that come alive in winter, the Gabbi Karniny Bidi (which means “discover the salt lakes”) section is the second part of the Wadjemup Bidi trail and one of the most popular. It is a 9.7 km one-way trip that takes you past Herschel Lake, through lake systems, through the ‘water walk’ promenade and along the coast to the lighthouse. of Bathurst. The hiking collective offer several tours suitable for all difficulty levels, but their Lakes & Bays tour is a winter favorite. The hike is over 12 km, starting on the Gabbi Karniny Bidi and ending at the main settlement. All in all, no matter where you go, you will be greeted by breathtaking scenery around every turn.

See the wonders of Rottnest’s wildlife

Winter is when the island’s wildlife comes out to play and it’s the best time of year to witness a joey quokka. Plan your trip accordingly because August is the best time to see a mother quokka carrying her babies in her pocket. When it comes to marine life, Cathedral Rocks is the best place to spot long-nosed fur seals and dolphins and whales can be spotted on the west and south sides of the island on their annual northward migration. . To get a closer look, get on board Eco-express boat trips will take you on a 90-minute trip along the island’s coast to hidden bays while encountering wildlife along the way.

Connect with the traditional custodians of the land

Wadjemup, which means “place across the water where the spirits are,” is the name Whadjuk Noongar of Rottnest Island. Rottnest has a complex history with many stories to tell. The island was used as an aboriginal prison from 1838 to 1904, then as a forced labor camp for aboriginal prisoners until 1931. It is the place of rest of the spirits, as well as a memorial place of the aboriginal prisoners. During your visit, take the time to understand the history, reflect and pay tribute to those who have come before you. You can see the island from the Aboriginal perspective with a Take part in Indigenous cultural tours and experiences walking tour. The hour-long experience begins with a traditional indigenous sand ceremony at the first establishment, a Dreamtime story, a traditional song, and learning the Noongar language. theOuadjemup Museum is another great way to connect with the history of the island and the Noongar people.

Make your heart beat with these epic adventures

For those looking for a little action on their winter vacation, Rottnest has it all. Hop on a bike and cruise around the island while soaking up the views, or if you’re less into pedaling, Paul’s Eco E-Bike Tours are a great way to explore the island. Want to try something totally new? Test your balance and go off-road with a segway tour.

With some of the best and most consistent surf breaks in Western Australia, Rottnest is a surfers ‘and bodyboarders’ paradise, and well worth donning a wetsuit. In fact, Strickland Bay has been rated one of the top 50 station wagons in the world with optimal conditions during the winter. If surfing is not your thing, you can enjoy the island’s crystal clear waters from above against a glass bottom sea ​​kayaking excursion.

For a massive adrenaline rush, board a 20-minute flight over Rottnest Island before skydiving go back down to the island. You will free fall at 200 km / h before descending by parachute, while enjoying breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and rugged coast of Rotto. If you still want to enjoy the view from above but without free fall, then a flight of joy is for you.

Slow down and enjoy a well-deserved break

There is no better feeling than building up muscles after a day of exploring and Rottnest Island Authority has a lot of accommodation possibilities for all tastes and all budgets. Samphire rottnest on Thomson Bay is the perfect home away from home where you can watch the rain clouds arrive from the comfort of your oceanfront room. For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Discovery of Rottnest Island Ecological glamping tents are made for you. Each afternoon, throw a blanket over your shoulders and watch the sunset from the dunes behind Pinky Beach before returning to your tent to fall asleep under the stars. For lakeside accommodation, check in Karma Rottnest where you can perch on your private balcony with a good book in one hand and wine in the other. Take your relaxation to new heights at Spa Karma. With treatments like Himalayan salt stone massages, facials, and infrared saunas on the menu, you’ll be forgiven for never wanting to leave.

Taste Rottnest Island

It is true that good food is crucial for any vacation and Rottnest can absolutely meet your expectations. To refuel for the day, enter Cafe Lane for a steaming cup of coffee and breakfast or cycle for Lexi is on Rotto, a Vintage 1970s caravan located in West End, for a hot beer and snack.

During the winter, The beach club at Samphire hosts bonfires with epic views overlooking Thomson Bay. Cozy up by the fire place toast marshmallows and wrap your hands around their soul warming new buttery rum cocktail. To hit Bar by the bay, also located in Samphire, for their new winter menu available Wednesday through Sunday. For a luxury dining experience by the sea, Samphire’s Lontara The restaurant serves exquisite Southeast Asian dishes. Don’t forget to order the island’s scallops with a sliced ​​caramelized duck. Located in Karma Rottnest, Riva offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu with wood-fired pizzas and three-course farm-to-table feasts. For all other delicious dining options, see here.

Are you already packing your bags? Beat the winter blues and go on an adventure on Rottnest Island. With fine cuisine, rich culture, wild encounters and more, we think it’s time you discovered the other side of Rotto. Download the full guide to see the other side of Rottnest Island here.

Image credit: Tourism Western Australia, Samphire Rottnest Instagram

Editor’s Note: This article is sponsored by Rottnest Island Authority and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Please support the sponsors that make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.