Cycling on Rottnest Island: Tips and Routes

Welcome to the two-wheeled paradise of Rottnest Island, where the joy of cycling meets the natural beauty of a coastal oasis. In this blog article, we'll be your virtual guide, steering you through the ins and outs of exploring Rottnest on a bicycle. Whether you're a biking enthusiast eager to conquer challenging trails or a leisure cyclist looking for breathtaking scenery, we've got you covered with essential tips and curated routes. Join us as we pedal through this island haven, uncovering the secrets of the best cycling experiences Rottnest has to offer. So, gear up, saddle in, and let's embark on a journey of discovery through the enchanting landscapes and cycling wonders of Rottnest Island.

Things to Bring on Your Bike Trip:

Embarking on a cycling adventure around Rottnest Island promises breathtaking scenery, exploration of historical sites and encounters with unique wildlife. However, the key to transforming this journey into an unforgettable experience lies in careful preparation. Here's why and what you should bring to ensure a memorable cycling excursion:

  • Water: Hydration is Key for a Comfortable Ride

    • Staying hydrated is paramount to sustaining your energy levels and enjoying a comfortable ride. We recommend bringing a water bottle or a hydration pack to ensure easy access to water during your journey.

  • Bag/Backpack: Essential for Carrying Personal Items, Snacks and Essentials

    • A lightweight and comfortable backpack or bag will prove invaluable for carrying personal items, snacks, sunscreen and other essentials.

  • Sunscreen: Protection Against the island's Strong Sun

    • Sunscreen is a non-negotiable item to shield your skin from the island's strong UV rays. Consider using water-resistant sunscreen, particularly if you plan on making stops at the pristine beaches for a swim.

  • Thongs/Enclosed Shoes: Choose Appropriate Footwear Based on Activities

    • As you traverse the diverse terrain of Rottnest Island, your choice of footwear becomes crucial. For beach explorations, thongs might be your go-to, offering breathability and ease of use. However, enclosed shoes become essential when cycling the island.

  • Sun Protection (Cover Shoulders, Hat, Throw Over): Protecting Yourself from the Sun's Rays

    • The Australian sun can be intense and protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is a priority. Covering your shoulders, wearing a hat and having a lightweight throw-over are essential elements of your sun protection arsenal.

Cycling Routes on Rottnest Island: Easy, Moderate and Hard

Easy Route (5km - 40 mins riding time):

The easy route on Rottnest Island is tailor-made for those new to cycling, families with kids and riders seeking a relaxed journey. This 5km loop, with approximately 40 minutes of riding time, offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and family-friendly attractions. Key stops along the route include:

  • Thomson Bay

  • The Basin

  • Longreach Bay

  • Geordie Bay

  • Parakeet Bay

  • Little Armstrong

Adapting the Easy Route (Additional 7km):

For those craving a bit more adventure, the easy route can be extended by adding an extra 7km. This extension allows you to explore additional gems of Rottnest Island, including:

  • Kingston Barracks

  • Henrietta Rocks

  • Parker Point

  • Little Salmon Bay

 

Moderate Route (11km - 1.5-3 hours riding time):

The moderate route is designed for riders looking to delve deeper into the island's history and natural wonders. Covering 11km with a riding time of 1.5-3 hours, this route incorporates historical sites, a shipwreck for snorkelling, a dedicated snorkel trail and a visit to the salt lakes and bee study centre. Stops on the moderate route include:

  • Thomson Bay

  • Kingston Barracks

  • Henrietta Rocks

  • Porpoise Bay

  • Parker Point

  • Little Salmon Bay

  • Wadjemup Lighthouse

  • Salt Lakes

Hard Route (22km - 3-5 hours riding time):

For the seasoned cyclist seeking a challenging adventure, the hard route promises an exhilarating 22km journey, taking approximately 3-5 hours to complete. This route incorporates not only the beauty of Rottnest but also adds the opportunities to partake in rock jumping, a boardwalk offering picturesque views, surfing spots and opportunities for fishing and spearfishing. The hard route includes the following highlights:

  • Stark Bay

  • Ricey Beach

  • Little Armstrong Bay

  • Parakeet Bay

  • Geordie Bay

  • Salt Lakes

  • Thomson Bay

  • Kingston Barracks

  • Henrietta Rocks

  • Porpoise Bay

  • Parker Point

  • Little Salmon Bay

  • Nancy Cove (Osprey Nests)

  • Strickland Bay

  • Narrow Neck

  • West End

  • Eagle Rock

  • Cathedral Rocks

Whether you're seeking a leisurely ride, a historical exploration or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Rottnest Island's cycling routes cater to every rider's preference and skill level. Strap on your helmet and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this island paradise.

Pedal into Paradise: Book your Rottnest Cycling Experience Today

As we conclude our exploration of cycling on Rottnest Island, we hope you're feeling as inspired as we are about the incredible biking adventures awaiting you. Remember, the key to a successful and memorable trip lies in thoughtful preparation and we've outlined the essential items to ensure you're ready for the journey. Your choice of route also plays a pivotal role, with options ranging from the family-friendly easy route to the challenging and exhilarating hard route.

Now, with your helmet secured and excitement building, we invite you to take the next step. Pack your essentials, choose your route and embark on your own biking adventure to Rottnest Island with Rottnest Fast Ferries. Our most popular package, the bike and ferry combo, ensures a seamless journey from the mainland to the island paradise.

To book this unforgettable experience, simply reach out to our friendly reservation team and get started on your biking adventure today with Rottnest Fast Ferries.

Jared Gunthorpe