A guide to the best wellness retreats and activities in Adelaide

Let’s start with the magical Sequoia Lodge – an intimate, adults-only health retreat in Adelaide’s Hills. Just 20 minutes from the city, this boutique oasis feels like your own private sanctuary. With only 14 suites, it’s the ultimate escape for those who want to truly unwind. Picture yourself lounging in one of their thermal hot pools, gazing out over the breathtaking Piccadilly Valley – absolute bliss, right? Plus, it’s on the doorstep of some of South Australia’s best local artisan producers. Don’t miss their complimentary yoga sessions and guided hikes that take you through tranquil bushlands.

For the ultimate self-care experience, the 5-hour Retreat Day at Davaar House is an absolute must. Your journey begins with an hour of oxygen therapy to boost your energy, followed by a detoxifying lymphatic roller massage. You’ll then have access to an infrared sauna and a float therapy session in magnesium-rich water for deep relaxation. The day wraps up with a revitalising massage and custom facial, leaving you feeling completely refreshed.

If you’re after something more urban, Eos Spa + Wellness in the city centre is your sanctuary. From steam rooms to holistic treatments, it’s the perfect spot for a quick wellness reset in the heart of Adelaide. Opt for their Recharge Package , which combines wellness-infused overnight accommodation at Eos by SkyCity with breakfast at iTL and indulgent spa treatments for two.

If you feel most alive when outdoors, you’ll love the hiking trails Adelaide has to offer. One must-do is the Mount Lofty Summit. This isn’t just a walk - it’s an adventure. Standing over 710 metres above sea level, expect to be rewarded with sweeping views of the city and beyond. No wonder it’s classed as one the best nature walks in Adelaide - it’s an experience that will leave you feeling on top of the world.

Another unmissable hiking haven is Morialta Conservation Park, just 10km northeast of the city. With creeks, gorges and waterfalls, it’s a serene environment packed with everything you could want from nature. With five different trails to choose from, you can opt for a gentle stroll or push yourself with a more intense hike. For the daring, there’s even a rock-climbing zone. Want someone to guide you through this spectacular place? You can easily book guided hiking adventures through PureSA.

Prefer to pedal your way around the region with the wind whipping through your hair? There’s no shortage of bike tours in Adelaide. Bike About offers a guided e-bike adventure from Hahndorf to Mount Lofty - a 26km route rich with history and stunning views. While this might be a challenge on a classic pushy, thanks to the e-bike, the climb feels effortless. For those who want to explore the city at a more leisurely pace, their Adelaide Scenic Electric Bike Tour takes around 3 hours and includes a stop at the National Wine Centre of Australia, where you can treat your tastebuds before wandering through the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

If you’re a water lover, an Adelaide City Kayak Tour with Earth Adventures could be the perfect way to experience the city from a new perspective – gliding through calm waters away from the urban hustle. These 90-minute tours operate on weekends and run at an easy pace, perfect for unwinding. But if you’re craving something more adrenaline-fuelled, head to TreeClimb Adelaide for a Tree Top Aerial Adventure. As Australia’s first inner-city aerial adventure park, it offers a thrilling experience while staying connected to nature. With 52 challenges, it’s an unforgettable day of fun that even the kids will love.