Warming wellness escapes

I love the cooler weather. Winter’s spectacular sunrises and sunsets, ten times as vivid and colourful as the summer versions. Then there’s cosying up around a crackling fireplace with a herbal tea and a good book. Layering outfits with jackets, beanies and tights. Slow cooked stews and soups that feel like they’re nourishing and warming you with every spoonful.

Buuuuut I kind of love winter in small doses. Because winter is also freezing walks from the bed to the bathroom in the middle of the night, shorter days, extra laundry, bigger electricity bills and the likelihood of more illness.

So I am super glad to be heading into Spring and warmer weather. If you need to find some heat before summer hits, I’ve put together a list of my favourite warming wellness escapes – it’s amazing how incredibly restorative even just a few days can be.

Starry Night Luxury Camping

Sunshine Coast, Queensland

The crew at Starry Nights, a luxe yet raw and earthy glamping retreat, are all about creating an intimate and authentic wilderness camping experience without scrimping on any of the luxuries. So, think a spacious 75sqm safari tent with a king-sized bed, claw footed bath, fluffy robes, organic food and plenty of cooking facilities. And with only two completely secluded tents (which sleep up to five guests each) on the sprawling property, you’ll feel as though the place is exclusively yours.

Spend your days roaming the rainforest, ridges, creeks, swimming holes and hills or take a trip to the gorgeous mountain village of Montville only 10 minutes down the road. The Eumundi Markets, held every Wednesday and Saturday, are a 25-minute drive. Renowned as the biggest and best artisan market in Australia, peruse handcrafted treasures while snacking on local flavours.

At night, ignite the indoor fireplace and take a soak in a steaming hot bath. The cooler months are the best time for stargazing as the drier air results in clearer skies and there’s no better location than Starry Night to soak up the immense beauty of the night sky.

Green Island Resort

Tropical North Queensland

With averages highs of 26° Celsius and lows of around 18°, a trip to Tropical North Queensland is a breath of fresh warm air. And for a unique wellness escape, you cannot beat Green Island Resort. Located on an ancient coral cay, this unique boutique resort feels like a true escape. Each suite is set against a backdrop of majestic rainforest and resort guests can roam the entire island, home to vibrant flora and flora as well as crisp white sandy beaches.

Your stay includes a wide range of complimentary activities such as snorkelling, beach volleyball, access to canoes and kayaks, glass bottom boat tours, fish feeding, stargazing and guided daytime and after dark walks. Or you may simply prefer to pull up a sun lounger and beach umbrella and while away the afternoons with a novel beside the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

Upgrade your stay to a Green Island (Wunyami) Wellness Getaway to add daily buffet breakfasts, sunset drinks, a gourmet sunset dinner hamper and a Wunyami Cultural Walking Tour with the Gunggandji and Yidinji Traditional Owners of the island and sea country. During this unforgettable journey, you’ll connect with the spirit of the rainforest, gain knowledge about ancient bush food and medicinal practices, engage in traditional methods of igniting fire and discover the cultural significance of clay.

Bina Maya

Margaret River Region, Western Australia

Nestled within 7.5 acres of pristine native Australian bushland lies this luxurious self-contained accommodation set on an enchanting property. Bina Maya exudes a distinct Scandinavian ambiance, boasting a minimalist design that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking forest vistas, even from a warm bath!

From the comfort of your outdoor deck, indulge in the joy of spotting local wildlife, including grey kangaroos, sulphur-crested cockatoos, native birds and playful possums. Bina Maya serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s finest local produce including the exquisite wines the Margaret River region is renowned for, scenic walks and pristine beaches. Alternatively, you can simply unwind and bask in the warmth of the fireplace, savouring a truly revitalising holiday.

Enhance your stay with pre booked private spa treatments, invigorating yoga lessons, delightful local grazing platters or a sumptuous dinner prepared by a private chef.

Talaroo Hot Springs

Tropical North Queensland

If you’re keen for a wellness adventure, hire a car, camper or caravan from Cairns and set out for Talaroo Hot Springs. Situated on the Savannah Way, approximately 4 hours drive from the ‘city’, this seamless blend of rich culture and globally significant geological marvels is well worth the trek.

The sole known tiered thermal hot spring in Australia and one of our country’s few rare mound springs, Talaroo stands out as a truly unique thermal bathing experience. Join a guided tour to learn more about the history of Talaroo and the connection to the Ewamiam people.

It’s a pretty long drive to consider heading back to Cairns in the same day so book a spot at the outback caravan park and campground. With an array of eco tents complete with a queen bed as well as powered and unpowered sites, the thoughtfully designed grounds offer modern facilities and a well-equipped camp kitchen. Be sure to bring your own food as the location is quite remote and there’s not much available locally. And it’s just a short 300m walk to the pristine Einasleigh River, offering a picturesque setting and more opportunities for swimming.

Image credits: Tourism and Events Queensland, Bina Maya Yallingup Escape, Talaroo Hot Springs