Mt Kanimbla Retreats: A wellness escape to the Blue Mountains

Winter it was, and the drive through the iconic Blue Mountains Villages to Mt Kanimbla in the late afternoon was sublime – the last rays of daylight lit up the rolling green hills, the dramatic escarpment, and the farmhouses dotted through the countryside.

As we pulled into the driveway with glimpses of the Kanimbla Valley on our left, it was hard to decide between heading into the gorgeous Lodge, or straight down to the paddock to check out the view.

We opted to explore our accommodation, and we loved all the different spaces, each with a different feel. The stunning open-plan kitchen, dining and living room has big windows, a cosy wood fire and a library of great books. The warm timber tones are a nod to the pine trees scattered across the property - it felt like a modern European cabin. There’s 4 gorgeous bedrooms, two with ensuites, plus an inviting relaxation room (perfect for yoga or meditation) and a games room with another wood fire.

But with a view like that, we were quickly drawn out to the deck. We just stood there, marvelling at the scene unfolding before us. Kangaroos grazing on the paddock, birds chirping in the trees, chickens in their roost – just as the sun started to set a vibrant pink above the outdoor firepit.

The stillness amplified the sounds of nature and it was so special to be welcomed by the resident wildlife. It was then that we discovered the outdoor bath, tucked away in a private corner on the deck with views across the valley. I could immediately imagine sinking into the warm water as the sun set over the mountains, or soaking beneath a sky filled with stars, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of the bush. It was one of those little discoveries that made us realise just how easy it would be to completely switch off here.

Back inside, we noticed several thoughtful little touches – a jar of marshmallows on the coffee table, fresh lavender on the dining table and rosemary in the kitchen, lots of warm blankets and some delicious welcome treats.

It wasn’t long before we had the fire going and a nourishing meal in the oven, feeling totally at home and already relaxed.

After a very restful sleep, we woke to the call of a kookaburra and the melodic song of a magpie. The mountain had been enveloped by a soft white blanket but by the time I brewed a cup of tea and took it out onto the deck, the mist was slowly lifting and the warmth of the sun put a smile on my face. It was the perfect place for my morning movement practice and the most beautiful start to the day.

We had fresh eggs for breakfast and watched several birds trying to catch theirs – colourful king parrots, graceful lorikeets, and cheeky cockatoos floated around the property. We loved walking the paddock to see the family of kangaroos, the small orchard and the herb garden - nature isn't something you visit here - it's something you're immersed in. The landscape quietly becomes part of your day. I found myself sitting quietly, completely content to do nothing. My shoulders felt lighter, and I found myself being gentler with myself.

We headed 15 minutes down the road to Historic Hartley Village for a chai at the Post Mistress Café inside the old Post Office - and immediately understood why it was recommended. Rustic and super cosy, we made a mental note to come back later for a snack (think homemade tarts, crunchy toasties and the fluffiest scones!). We then took the short walk along the River Lett, with its clear fresh water running through lush vegetation and the cool crisp air filling our lungs.

When we returned from our travels to our Blue Mountains retreat, the afternoon was spent around the firepit in the paddock – taking some time out to read and notice the sounds of the bush. We sat mesmerised by the flickering flames and the gentle crackle of the fire, losing track of time as the afternoon faded into evening.

As dusk settled over the valley, we could see the warm glow from one of the two luxury cabins perched high on Mt Kanimbla. Sitting on the region's highest peak, they enjoy sweeping views back towards the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains escarpment.

Eventually, we headed inside for our last meal at Mt Kanimbla (for now!), reflecting on a day spent immersed in the landscape, reconnecting with ourselves and each other, we realised just how restorative simple pleasures can be.

We read that current owners Ben and Valerie first discovered Mt Kanimbla Retreats as guests, just like us. Like many who visit, they fell in love with the property and its extraordinary setting, and before long became its custodians, continuing to create a place that encourages guests to embrace a gentler pace and reconnect with what matters.

We left feeling calmer than when we arrived, reminded that wellness doesn't always require a spa treatment or a packed itinerary. Sometimes it's as simple as birdsong, a cup of tea on the deck, a crackling fire and enough space to simply be.

Some places encourage you to fill every minute. Mt Kanimbla Retreats quietly invites you to do the opposite. I can’t wait to go back for another wellness stay!

The surrounding area is ideal for people that love being outdoors. If being active in nature is your thing, some of the best Blue Mountains walks and hikes are on your doorstep – we love the guided hiking and wellness adventures by Tagster and Tread Lightly Eco Tours.

Or challenge yourself with a rockclimb, abseil or canyon adventure with Blue Mountains Climbing School. And with several rivers and streams flowing with cool water, the area is also a fly fishing mecca.