The best self-care retreats and destinations to recharge your batteries

Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers a wealth of natural beauty, wellness experiences, and self-care retreats. These destinations are designed to help individuals recharge their batteries and connect with themselves on a deeper level. Self-care retreats offer numerous benefits to individuals seeking to restore and improve their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. These benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety levels
• Improved sleep patterns
• Increased self-awareness and mindfulness
• Enhanced creativity and productivity
• Greater sense of relaxation and rejuvenation
• Improved relationships with self and others

Thankfully there are many of these locations just a stone’s throw away from Melbourne! Here are some of the latest self-care retreats and destinations in Victoria that you can visit to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs, Victoria’s first geothermal mineral springs and day spa, offers over 50 bathing experiences, including shared thermal mineral pools, wet and dry saunas, a hydrotherapy pool, Turkish and Moroccan hammams, and a hilltop pool with 360-degree views over Fingal’s sweeping farmlands.

The founder and owners of the hot springs share a passion for wellness and commit to expanding the industry by promoting the healing benefits of geothermal water and the importance of reconnecting through bathing practices within their community. They also host a variety of other relaxation offerings, such as massages, private bathing experiences and professionally-led yoga sessions.

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

Gwinganna is a wellness retreat in the Gold Coast hinterland of Queensland, Australia. The retreat is known for its focus on holistic health and offers various programs to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Guests can choose from a range of activities such as yoga, meditation, hiking, and spa treatments, all while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings. Gwinganna also emphasises sustainable living and provides organic meals made with locally sourced ingredients.

With its serene atmosphere and dedication to wellness, Gwinganna is a popular destination for those looking to recharge and reconnect with themselves.

Alba Thermal Springs and Spa

Also located in Fingal, this sustainable and luxurious spa destination is committed to reusing its thermal water, running on solar energy, and regenerating native bushland. The complex features nearly two dozen spa treatment studios and over 30 bathing pools, including geothermal, cold plunge, and herbal-infused botanical pools. Guests can choose from a range of treatments, all-inclusive packages, and small-group experiences.

The complex also features Thyme, a 120-seat restaurant that champions locally sourced and seasonal produce, including wholesome poke bowls, crisp vegetables, lean meats, local tea blends, brewed and fermented beverages, and wine from the Peninsula’s renowned vineyards.

Crystalbrook Collection Byron Bay

Crystalbrook Byron is a luxury resort located in the iconic coastal town of Byron Bay in New South Wales, Australia. The resort is situated just a short walk away from the beach and offers a range of stylishly designed rooms and suites, each with its unique features and views. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming in the resort’s signature pool, dining at the on-site restaurant, or indulging in a spa treatment.

The resort also prioritises sustainability and has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives such as using renewable energy and providing guests with reusable water bottles. With its stunning location and attention to detail, Crystalbrook Byron offers a truly luxurious and relaxing experience.

Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa

Established in 1895, the Hepburn Springs Bathhouse offers two different soaking areas: the general bathhouse and the Sanctuary. The general bathhouse features two heated, chlorinated pools, while the Sanctuary includes a magnesium salt bath, a spa couch bath, a rainfall shower, two saunas, and an outdoor spa with a cold plunge pool. The bathhouse also provides spa treatments, such as private baths in pure, unchlorinated mineral water, mud baths, and exfoliation treatments. If you’d rather stay dry, the spa also offers remedial and relaxation massages, facials, and steam therapies.

So, if you need some rest and recuperation, some time away at any of these hot springs is worth your time. Whether you merely take a day or indulge in a weekend away, your body and mind will thank you!