Rottnest, the quokka-filled isle surrounded by glorious turquoise beaches off the coast of Perth has its first luxury resort, here’s what to expect. Built next to the island’s famous pub, Hotel Rottnest, the opening of Samphire Rottnest has been more than a decade in the making for the family run Prendiville Group, who own both properties. At Samphire there are 80 rooms surrounding two lagoon-style pools, as well as ample lounging areas including the Beach Club directly across from Thomson Bay, and the Chef Will Meyrick-helmed Lontara restaurant is on site.

The design

As Rottnest, otherwise known by the Noongar Aboriginal word Wadjemup, is an Class-A Reserve, it was essential that the built environment respect the natural habitat. Leading Perth architects Christou Design Group took on the challenge with clever design using lightweight construction and materials, passive solar design and an abundance of native landscaping. Given the favourable weather, much space is dedicated to outdoor dining with a natural coastal colour palette. Quokkas; those friendly marsupials endemic to the island, are free to roam the grounds.

The rooms

There are three categories of rooms, Beachside rooms look over Thomson Bay, Poolside rooms surround the two pools, and Beach Lane rooms at the back of the property offer ocean glimpses. Pale wood panelled walls and stone bathroom finishes feature, and linen curtains and sisal matting give a breezy coastal vibe. You’ll find Hunter amenities in the bathroom and the mini bar is well-stocked with local produce including local WA wines from the Sandalford Estate. The larger Beachside Signature rooms have a tub and a private outdoor shower area.

The restaurant

With a menu inspired by the flavours of the archipelagos of South-East Asia, and ingredients plucked fresh from the sea, Chef Will Meyrick has singlehandedly stepped up the quality of cuisine on Rotto at Lontara. Dishes such Rottnest Island scallops with caramelised minced duck, peanut, Thai basil, finger limes and nahm jim or a Green Curry of Gold Band Snapper with green papaya, oyster mushrooms, long bean and Thai basil are perfect for the climate. The casual outdoor setting helps too. Well-worth lingering for a long lunch or dinner.

The bars

A key part of the experience at Samphire are the indoor/outdoor dining and imbibing spaces. Begin by sipping on a herbaceous Lontara Smash cocktail (botanical gin, Thai basil, lemon, agave, chili salt) at the Art Deco-style Governor’s Room and Lounge, which used to be part of Hotel Rottnest (formerly the Governor’s summer residence) or go barefoot on the sand bayside under a festoon of lights. There’s also a wide array of lounging areas to watch boats entering the bay and in the far distance, the bright lights of Perth.

The bottom line

Already a hit for Western Australians wishing to venture on a luxury ‘overseas’ escape, Samphire Rottnest is a welcome addition to the island. Be sure to book a table at Lontara during the stay, and for a more casual meal, right next door at Hotel Rottnest.