On the hunt for rest and rejuvenation? Look no further than the Land Down Under, where breathtaking mountain vistas, innovative spa treatments, and unique luxury accommodations await. It might be a bit of a journey, but a world of serenity and tranquility exists across this expansive country. Alleviate your stresses and find inner peace in these five relaxing destinations in Australia.
Blue Mountains, New South Wales
Nestled in southwest Australia, the Blue Mountains are a misty, eucalyptus paradise just beyond the reach of civilization. This region draws in weary travelers who seek respite in the great outdoors. Hike to the Echo Point Lookout for sweeping views of the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, investigate caves alight with a constellation of glow worms, or sail above the clouds in the Scenic World cable car. Rugged relaxation options like backcountry camping and even designated walkabouts are instantly stress-reducing but if you’re looking for an especially luxuriating experience, the Blue Mountains is also home to One & Only Wolgan Valley. This luxurious resort is tucked deep in a tranquil wildlife conservation and features healing mineral pools with sweeping views of the impressive landscape.
Rottnest Island, Western Australia
Also known as Wadjemup in the Whadjuk Nyoongar language, Rottnest Island is a tropical isle off the coast of one of Australia’s most remote states. A little over seven miles long, Wadjemup offers a relaxing getaway . The cherry on top of this serene island in the Indian Ocean? The cute critters that call Rottnest Island home. Quokkas are the resident friendly marsupials that you’ll no doubt encounter on a trip to Wadjemup. Aside from these curious little guys, the island also boasts colorful salt lakes, historic shipwrecks, and crystal clear ocean ripe for snorkeling, scuba diving, and just lazing in the shallows. Hole up at the Rottnest Island Eco Retreat situated right on the pristine Pinky Beach with views of the lighthouse. This glamping experience is dedicated to sustainability through revegetation, eco-friendly building materials, and water management.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, Tasmania
Despite, or perhaps in spite of its remote location, Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park in Tasmania has become a haven for wellness retreats and those who are looking for a spiritual experience. With almost 400,000 acres to explore, visitors can experience mountain reflections in idyllic lakes, historical sites, and craggy peaks. Although you might expect this area of Australia to be a lush jungle or dry desert like most of the mainland, Tasmania enjoys a temperate climate with alpine regions and even snow in winter. This creates perfect conditions for wilderness retreats and a great excuse to escape the hot and humid mainland. Warm your hands by the fire at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge or relax in a rustic cabin at the Lemonthyme Wilderness Retreat. The nearby Cradle Mountain Hotel offers luxury spa experiences like the Sole Bliss foot treatment, perfect for those who have just completed the famous Overland Track. Most of all, keep your eyes peeled for Tasmanian devils lurking in the bushes of the national park.
Byron Bay, New South Wales
Just south of Brisbane on Australia’s breathtaking Gold Coast, Byron Bay is a meditative getaway centered on the beauty of the sea. An oasis for alternative thinkers and free-spirits for decades, Byron Bay has transformed into a spiritual sanctuary. Wellness seekers will rejoice over the staggering array of nourishing fare from local farmers' markets and health conscious eateries like FOLK and Elixiba. For a truly transformative resort, Byron Bay Detox Retreats offer immersive experiences centered around spirituality and purification through yoga, meditation, detoxing foods, and community centered activities all nestled in the awe-inspiring setting of their enchanting accommodation. As these sweeping beaches are the ancestral land of the Arakwal peoples, taking a guided tour with local elders is an incredible way to connect with the land.
Margaret River, Western Australia
What better way to relax than sipping Shiraz in one of Australia’s premier wine regions? Margaret River offers visitors wind-swept cerulean coastline, verdant rainforests, and blissful riverside relaxation, just to name a few. Couple this with their status as being a remote wine region and you’ve got a recipe for magic. Just a few memorable experiences for those in pursuit of relaxation include visiting the Boranup Forest, gravel biking through the countryside, and catching waves in the undulating surf. The Eight Willows Retreat is a special place to call home while staying in Margaret River and those who need an excuse to relax will love their unique Sound Bowl Massage and luxury chalets to get some much needed rest. Margaret River is also an excellent place to base yourself for a visit to the intriguing state of Western Australia. A day’s drive reveals startlingly fuschia lakes in Esperance, luxuriating treatments at the Bodhi Spa Retreat, or Lucky Bay’s unforgettable beach kangaroos, laying in the sand.
