Rottnest Island is easily accessibly by ferry from Perth and is a great choice for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Only about 300 people live on the island, and its an A Class Preserve, meaning it’s about as near to untouched and unspoiled as it can be. But don’t be fooled: there are plenty of things to do on Rottnest. There are tours, dozens of isolated beaches, golf, and a movie theatre, to name only a few. But Francesco and I wanted to experience the simple beauty of the island, so we rented bikes and spent a day riding the paths that run through and around Rottnest. I learned just how silly Francesco can be in front of a camera! Seeing the island by bike allowed us to really see it and to enjoy its animal life, namely the quokka. Have you ever seen a more adorable creature? They are sometimes referred to as “the happiest animal on Earth,” and with that irresistible, smiling face, it’s easy to see why. It took incredible restraint not to sneak one into the van and bring it home with me!