If you’re looking to escape your hectic life, then retreat to one of these health and wellness havens. Immerse yourself within a world of tranquility and find inner peace through restorative treatments, wellness seminars and purifying mineral waters. At these five wellness retreats, you can laze around and soothe the soul amid spectacular Australian scenery, before returning to your every day life with a new found sense of serenity.
Gaia Retreat & Spa
Spa
Courtesy of Gaia Retreat and Spa
Poised on Byron Bay Hinterland, the internationally renowned Gaia Retreat & Spa redefines bespoke luxury. Co-owned by Olivia Newton John, Gaia’s seductive tropical surrounds instantly alleviate stress and feature a tranquil day spa, salt water pool, Naturopathic Clinic and Viha Fitness Centre, as well as a Samoan style Kukura House where guests convene in their spare time. Gaia also has a range of packages curated for optimum nourishment of the body and soul. The holistic retreat is complemented by a selection of spacious suites and villas.
Fostering relaxation Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat encourages guests to listen to their bodies and restore balance. Located on the stunning Gold Coast hinterland, a typical day at Gwinganna begins with Qi Gong at dawn, followed by bush walking on one of the property’s 16 trails, yoga, equine therapy, fitness classes and engaging wellness seminars. The afternoon is designated to Dreamtime where you can nap, wade into the pool, or pamper yourself with a nurturing treatment at the Spa Sanctuary. The retreat which is co-owned by Hugh Jackman has a range of packages on offers tailored to sooth the soul.
Discover serenity in the breathtaking Hunter Valley at Golden Door, a luxury health resort dedicated to holistic enrichment. Australia’s largest day spa features 26 treatment rooms, spa baths, private sun gardens, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a fully-equipped gym, a peaceful library and a wellness centre. Golden Door also offers wellbeing workshops and seminars enabling you to leave the resort with a fresh mindset. Located two and half hours from Sydney, the property boasts 74 guest villas which open to sweeping views of Brokenback Mountain.
Harmony Hill Health Spa Retreat, Margate | Courtesy Harmony Hill Wellness and Organic Spa Retreat
Nestled within a 17 hectare bush setting, Harmony Hill Wellness and Organic Spa Retreat specialises in holistic healing and Ayurvedic therapies. The eco-friendly spa offers a five-night package featuring a revitalising organic facial, yoga and meditation, Chakra Healing and reflexology. Eight-night weight-loss packages are also available. Dedicated to restoring your body inside and out, Harmony Hill will keep you well fed with a detoxifying vegetarian menu and at the end of the day you can settle into one of their eco-cottages.
Submerge yourself within the restorative mineral waters at the historic Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, which has lured visitors since 1895. The sanctuary includes two communal mineral pools rich in potassium and magnesium providing an enhanced sense of wellbeing, as well as a creekside spa, an aroma steam room and a Moroccan-style Hammam experience. For prolonged relaxation, stay at one of The Retreat’s 10 five star villas, which overlook the native bushland.
