Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is one of my favourite places to visit on the weekend and a ‘must see’ if you have visitors from overseas or other parts of Australia.
It’s only a 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle, a port suburb of Perth in Western Australia and not only does it have some stunning beaches, there are plenty of other things that make it special and unique. If you are really pressed for time you can also go there by helicopter which will give you some stunning views over the island and the beautiful beaches.
First of all, there are no cars on the island so when you book your ferry ticket make sure you include bicycle hire or you can take your own bicycle with you on the ferry. Cycling is a beautiful way to see the island. When you step off the ferry start cycling to the right and there are sealed paths that will take you from one little beach to the next and the next and so on.
Image: cycling around Rottnest with my German bestie from my student days in Milan
Secondly, Rottnest Island is famous for it’s Quokkas. These are Australian Marsupials, similar in size to a cat and they carry their joeys (babies) in a pouch, just like a kangaroo. The Quokkas roam freely around the island and they are not afraid of humans. They even hop around right in the centre of town. It’s imperative though that you don’t touch them and don’t feed them. If you want to get a Quokka selfie then you just have to lie down on the ground next to them.
Image: meeting my first Quokka
Rottnest Island can really give you the feeling of getting back to nature in an unspoilt environment. There are no skyscrapers on the island and no massive resorts. There are many original heritage cottages that can be booked, as well as the choice of camping, one hostel, two small resorts and a hotel. The highest rating of accommodation on the island is 4 stars but remember Rottnest is all about the simple life and getting back to basics a little bit.
Image: back to basics in a heritage cottage on Rottnest island
When it comes to eating and drinking there are five restaurants, five cafes and a few take away places all within walking distance of one another. There’s even one nice ‘beachy’ fashion store and good coffee on the island. I’m a big fan of Hotel Rottnest which is essentially the local pub on the island. It has a large outdoor area overlooking the beach and it’s the best place to socialise and to enjoy a cold drink after a day of cycling and swimming.
Image: Rottnest Island Hotel
So, pack your Ankalia sandals www.ankalia.com, a bikini and a casual summer dress and head over to Rottnest Island for a day or a week of relaxation.
Image: me wearing Camilla with Terena sandals in-hand
Lots of love,
Cheryl xx
