With over 138 days of sunshine each year, Perth is officially the city in Australia with the best weather. This extends through winter, as well. While places like Melbourne get very cold and wet during the winter months, Perth residents are fortunate to enjoy mild winters, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20 degrees.
The most fortunate part about that — we’re able to enjoy our beaches, coastline, and the dreamy Wadjemup / Rottnest Island all year round. We were curious to see what a winter weekend escape to Rottnest would be like, so we caught the ferry over and had an enchanting experience filled with food, cocktails, and heated pools.
Stay
You’re laying back, relaxing at Samphire’s Beach Club, cocktail in hand, looking out over the perfectly flat waters of Thomson Bay. The sky looks much like it’s been painted perfectly on a canvas — mostly blue with the odd patch of fluffy white clouds. You’d be forgiven for thinking that you’re actually sitting on the coast of Italy. Then you notice the Perth skyline in the background and realise that this paradise is actually just off the coast of Perth.
Samphire Rottnest is widely regarded as one of the best hotels in Perth so a stay here brings that je ne sais quoi that adds to the feeling that you’re holidaying in the Maldives. The hotel features a number of accommodation options from its Beach Lane rooms to the more elegant Signature Beachfront Suites for when you’re planning a special getaway and want that little bit extra from your experience.
One thing that rings true of all rooms is the resort’s ability to seamlessly blend with the island’s relaxed atmosphere without compromising on amenities and thoughtful touches.
A Considered Experience
Staying at Samphire really exemplifies the word ‘considered.’ Every aspect of our experience while there had been thought of in advance; from the simple things like the robes and slippers to the finer touches like the presence of Samphire Sanctuary where one of the rooms has been transformed into a spa so you can be pampered while there.
The Beach Club is where we spent most of our evenings, lounging around one of the fire pits, enjoying a glass of red and one of their seasonally-inspired cocktails. Winter nights pair so well with the glow and gentle crackle of a fire that it causes time to disappear quite rapidly.
One of our favourite cocktails while there was the Rottnest Island Long Island Ice Tea — Samphire’s unique take on the classic. If you’re in the mood for something fruity with a touch of heat to accompany the firepit’s warmth, the Watermelon Spice is also an excellent choice. This is a simple Tommy’s margarita with an exciting burst of watermelon and chilli.
Samphire Club
The Samphire Club — an exclusive guests-only lounge — gives you the perfect setting to indulge in complimentary coffee and baked delights as you unwind by the warmth of the fireplace. Whether you’re up for a round of board games, catching up on some reading with your favourite book, or simply savouring a cocktail, the Samphire Club is your haven of warmth and relaxation. Add in a few unexpected experiences which you can undertake, like wine tasting sessions and oysters and bubbles, and you’ll never want to leave.
The Heated Pool
During the warmer months, one of the main attractions to Rottnest is the many beaches and swimming spots where you can go for a dip. This is still an option during winter, especially with our abundance of sunny days; however, for some, the idea of diving into the slightly cooler waters is a little daunting.
If only the ocean was heated — that’s not an option anytime soon, so Samphire has you covered with a heated pool surrounded by sun lounges and day beds, making it one of the few hotels in Perth where you can soak up the winter sun in comfort and warmth.
Play
The best part of Rottnest as a winter destination is there are fewer people there so you can discover the island without the crowds that summer brings.
Animal Experiences
What could be more endearing than a smiling quokka? The sight of a baby quokka — keep your eyes peeled for newborn quokkas peeking out from their mothers’ pouches throughout the winter season.
But it’s not just the quokkas that are making a name for themselves on Rottnest Island. While the Margaret River region in the south is often associated with whale watching, you can also see pods of humpback whales commence their annual migration to the south from August to November.
Mind and Body
Along with a range of spa treatments offered in the comfort of your guest room, you can now start your day with morning yoga sessions.
Greet the crisp winter sunrise as you enjoy coastal-inspired yoga sessions. Breathe in the fresh, cool morning air of Rottnest Island and connect yourself to the ocean’s energy.
Yoga sessions are held every Saturday and Sunday morning, complimentary for in-house guests during winter. It’s an ideal way to treat yourself during your winter island getaway.
Exploring the Island
With the reduced crowds of the winter season, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the entirety of Rottnest Island.
Don’t forget to bring along your hiking boots or sneakers to join one of The Hike Collective’s guided tours of the island. You can select from four hiking trails, each showcasing breathtaking coastal headlands, inland lakes, and an array of natural and man-made attractions. The hikes, suitable for intermediate hikers, range from three hours to a full-day experience.
Alternatively, for those who wish to choose an easier way to explore, consider renting a bike or an e-bike. This allows you to enjoy leisurely coastal rides around the island at your own pace and enjoy the winter season to the fullest.
Sunset
Regardless of the season, be it summer or winter, the sun sets every day, and few places in Perth offer a sunset view as breathtaking as Rottnest Island.
You can enjoy a stunning sunset from the Beach Club, looking over Thomson Bay as the city lights of Perth flicker on in the distance. However, for the best place to watch the sunset, pack a scarf and jacket and head to either Bathurst Lighthouse or Pinky’s Beach. Both of these locations, which are a mere five-minute bike ride from Samphire Rottnest, provide unforgettable sunset views.
Just for you
Samphire Rottnest offers a range of packages to make your stay on the island an unforgettable one.
For those seeking a simpler stay with the freedom to plan their own adventures, the Samphire Bed and Breakfast Package includes a rejuvenating continental breakfast at Lontara.
Lastly, the Winter Escape Package reveals the island’s best-kept secret: its tranquil winter season. This package includes daily full breakfast, return ferries from Fremantle, and a Cuvee Hot Chocolate pack on arrival. Each evening, unwind with speciality winter cocktails fireside at The Beach Club and return to your room to find a cosy robe and slippers waiting for you.
Special Rate Offer
In case you needed further incentive to head off on a winter island getaway to Samphire Rottnest, So Perth readers can use the code ‘SOPERTH’ to claim your special rate offer when booking your stay online.
Please note, the promotion code is valid until the end of July 2023, for accommodation booked until 31 August 2023.
Learn more about Samphire Rottnest and book your stay today via samphirerottnest.com.au.
While you’re immersing yourself at Samphire Rottnest, you’re sure to work up an appetite and a thirst. Fortunately, we’ve got just the remedy for you with our culinary journey through Wadjemup/Rottnest Island.
This article was sponsored by Samphire Rottnest.
