Monday 6 February: Rottnest Island

 An early start for the 8.36am bus in to Fremantle. It seems deserted today. The Rottnest Express ferry takes off on time at 9.30 and is very full. It’s a bit overcast and we’re a bit cold for the first time with the aircon. It’s also a bit rough but only 30 minutes and the sun comes out as we disembark. We collect our bikes which are terrible old things with small wheels, only 3 gears and very wobbly steering! Fuelled by a flat white we head off out of Thomson’s Port to circumnavigate the island. There are no cars but quite a lot of wobbly cyclists! Luckily very few hills especially as Simon’s bike breaks and he has no gears and no front brake! The coastline is stunning dotted with 63 beaches with white sand and turquoise water. The local inhabitant is the Quokka: a large rat / small kangaroo thing which likes to be photographed! We stop off at several beaches for swimming and some sunning and seem to while away the day completing the 15 mile circuit in time for a beer before the 6.30 ferry. We have a delicious supper at Bread in Common in Fremantle although I am a little self conscious in my running shorts and trainers plus my beach kaftan as it’s getting chilly. Chargrilled broccoli, courgettes with peas and mint, peppered squid with beans and Gogo berries sharing platters and a glass of Margaret River red. Great industrial atmosphere and lively vibe. We’ve missed the last bus and wander the streets for a while feeling a bit vulnerable until a taxi finally appears to take us safely home. A great day.