Rottnest Island

Wadjemup / Rottnest Island illuminates our place in nature, particularly in the winter months. The land flourishes with shades of green and the sunsets blaze in more vibrant hues of red, orange, and pink, calling visitors to take in the wonder of the land.

But it’s when the clouds roll in and the sky delivers a deluge of water that you’re truly able to embrace an unhurried approach and unwind amidst Wadjemup’s splendour.  

When the drizzle settles in, these ideas can help you revel in a rainy day on Rottnest Island, finding a sense of rejuvenation along the way. 

Take a hike 

Hiking in the rain connects you to nature like nothing else. Don your waterproof hiking gear and some sturdy boots and head off on one of the Wadjemup Bidi trails. A network of trails spanning 45 km, there are five unique tracks catering to every hiker. Join The Hike Collective for a guided excursion or enjoy a self-guided hike along tracks like the Gabbi Karniny Bidi, a 9.5 km loop that winds its way through the island’s salt lake system, and the Wardan Nara Bidi encompassing the rugged southern coastline. No matter the trail you wander, take your time and notice the earth beneath your boots, the rain mist kissing your face — let the elements envelop you.  

Ride in the rain 

Vehicles are limited on Wadjemup, making it the ideal place to cycle — even in the rain. While hopping on a bike on a wet winter’s day might not be for everyone, those with an adventurous streak will relish a ride through the rain. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts with long stretches of empty open road, memorable views of a raging coastline, and an all-out invigorating ride that invokes all your senses as you breathe in the salty ocean breeze edged with the scent of earthy vegetation.  

Pause indoors 

Rainy days are the perfect excuse to press the pause button and simply revel in your accommodation. Pull on a pair of fluffy socks, pour a glass of wine or your favourite hot beverage, and settle in with a good book in a cosy nook at your accommodation. 

Indulge in the finer things 

Sample the island’s gastronomic delights with a degustation of comforting eats and beverages. Hug a warming cup of hot chocolate at Dome Cafe then head to Hotel Rottnest, an iconic haunt serving delicious pub food where you can indulge in dishes like prawn pizza or grilled fish with smashed chat potatoes and salsa verde. Sip on a glass of wine from their extensive menu and feel yourself warm from the inside out. Craving comfort food to quash the gloom of the weather? Isola Bar e Cibo is sure to satisfy with pasta dishes crafted with uncomplicated Western Australian produce and a deck where you can relax and gaze out to the rain. 

Catch a movie 

Chances are you’ve never experienced the big screen from an old-school wooden deckchair in a heritage cinema. Rottnest Moviesscreen the latest releases in an intimate setting at the ‘Picture Hall’ where you can get lost in another world for a couple of hours — don’t forget to grab yourself some popcorn at the quaint candy bar. Make a day of it with friends or family and drop in for a hit of 80s and 90s nostalgia in the attached arcade where you can pull pinballs and play video games until your movie starts.   

Engage in history 

Welcome the rainy-day interlude and experience the other side of Wadjemup’s wonder, its chapter in history. Catch the Captain Hussey historical train or a Quokka Coaches bus to Oliver Hill and gain a unique insight into the island’s important role during wartime. Home to a battery of 9.2-inch naval guns built to defend Fremantle Port, the fort echoes a rich history. Join a guided tour and venture underground where a collection of tunnels were burrowed into the sandy bluff, once an arsenal for ammunition. Carry on to Wadjemup Museum where relics dating as far back as 40,000 years hold special significance.  

Winter is when Wadjemup truly flourishes.

This article first appeared online at rottnestisland.com