Retreat to the Shoalhaven

Stand Tall Retreats

Founder Amy Manton started Stand Tall Retreats to give women of all ages the space and time to nurture their whole selves. Featuring inspiring women who share their unique skills and expertise, the curated programs help you to fill your metaphorical toolbox so you can thrive emotionally, mentally and physically when you return to your everyday life. While every detail has been carefully thought out, you can choose to join the planned itinerary or take time to rest depending on what feels more restorative for you. Can’t manage a multi-day retreat? Stand Tall’s Day Retreats are the perfect circuit breaker for a busy schedule. Experience a rejuvenating day of self-care, movement and nourishment for the body, mind and soul!

Om Sweet Om

A sweet little yoga studio in Milton, Om Sweet Om facilitates revitalising weekend yoga retreats at the eco luxe Heartspace Retreat centre in Yass valley, as well as day retreats in Milton. Move through various thoughtfully planned offerings of vinyasa and yin yoga, journalling and yogic philosophy workshops. Feast on organic vegetarian meals, sink into a guided yoga nidra with an essential oil temple and head massage, and relax with the sounds of crystal singing bowls. You’ll leave with a heart overflowing with gratitude and an abundance of energy!

The team at Experience Nature hosts an unforgettable weekend retreat in partnership with Bangalay Villas in Shoalhaven Heads. This holistic wellness retreat integrates forest bathing (the traditional Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku) with gentle yoga and meditation sessions. The essence of the retreat itinerary is to give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the healing power of the natural environment. The package includes all meals (prepared by the incredible Bangalay Dining team no less), accommodation and multiple forest bathing experiences in powerful pockets of nature in and around the property. With plenty of time to enjoy the hotel facilities you’ll be sure to leave feeling well rested and deeply connected to your surroundings.

Eqwine Escapes

If exploring the region’s dreamy landscape and incredible produce from horseback is more your speed, you can’t go past Eqwine Escapes. Choose from either a 2 night or 5 night experience to spend your days cantering down golden sandy beaches and meandering through lush farmland and rugged mountains, stopping at award-winning cellar doors along the way. The itinerary promises to squeeze every drop of goodness out of the South Coast! This retreat is best suited to intermediate and advanced riders so if you’re just discovering your horse legs, this might not be for you.

As a region rich in culture and First Nation history, the Shoalhaven is the perfect place to connect to Country. In their 3 day Trek Yuin Country retreat, Soulful Concepts offer an immersive and honest exploration of Aboriginal culture, history and the region’s spectacular wilderness. In between hands-on workshops and cultural discussions, you’ll tick off two of the most scenic hikes in the Shoalhaven, seeing in the sunrise from the peak of Didthul (Pigeon House Mountain). Come away with an informed and enhanced understanding of First Nations peoples, history and culture along with a deep appreciation for Country and a heart yearning to return for more.

This peaceful bush retreat is perfect for a ‘choose your own adventure’ getaway. Paperbark Camp is ideally located in Jervis Bay and you’ll stay in an African safari inspired canvas tent set amongst magical eucalyptus and paperbark trees. Let the tranquil sounds of the bush lull you into a state of deep relaxation over as many nights as you feel you need. You may choose to stay close to home – reading a book on your deck’s daybed, ordering an in-tent massage or soaking in the freestanding tub from your open air ensuite in between siestas. Or you may use the tranquil property as a base to explore the wonders of Jervis Bay – wandering the award-winning national parks, taking a whale watching cruise and immersing yourself in the turquoise waters at local beaches. However you choose to spend your time, a stay at Paperbark Camp is sure to be entirely unforgettable and wholeheartedly uplifting.

Image credits: Destination NSW, Om Sweet Om Milton and Soulful Concepts.