Wellness experiences in NSW to get you outdoors

There’s a good reason that surfers are some of the most laidback people on the planet. Surfing has been proven to improve mental clarity and mood all with the added benefits of being in the ocean. While it can seem intimidating to start, Soul Surf School based in the home of surfing in NSW, Byron Bay, ensures to teach you the skills to get your first wave (and beyond), by building your confidence and self-belief in a fun, supportive environment.

Stay: Fully immerse yourself in the surfer lifestyle by staying at their adjoining beachfront hostel. For a more elevated option, head for the Hinterland where the Tuscany-inspired villas of The Brooklet will be waiting.

Often touted to have the best hiking in Australia, it’s no wonder the Blue Mountains are a popular choice for nature lovers looking for a restorative getaway. The Grand Canyon Walk is a 6km trail that leads you through fresh air, forest and waterfalls of the World Heritage listed area, offering an instant sense of calm and connection.

Get the full experience by letting an expert guide from Tread Lightly Eco Tours lead the way and impart their wisdom as you explore.

Stay: Weary hikers will revel in the luxury of Chalets at Blackheath which offers in-room massages, private yoga classes and nourishing, wholefoods meals all over-looking the canyon.

Every year, thousands of Humpback Whales make their way up and down Australia’s east coast and while most watch from the cliffs, those in the know head to Jervis Bay for one of the most incredible things to do in the South Coast and swim alongside the gentle giants.

Woebegone Freedive will teach you breathwork and mindfulness techniques to help you remain calm and connect with the ocean and the animals throughout your encounter. Dolphins and sea lions are also often spotted on the 6-hour adventure, which concludes with sightseeing and a delicious morning tea.

Stay: The aptly named Bay and Bush is just a short drive from Jervis Bay, set on a stunning 27-acre property. A true bush-based wellness retreat in NSW, indulge in an on-site spa treatment before relaxing in your luxury cottage.

Want to know our favourite way to explore a new place while staying active? Going for a run! There’s nothing quite like hitting the pavement with new sights to take in, especially when they’re as iconic as Sydney Harbour.

Meet new, likeminded friends with Fit City Tours as you head off on a 9km morning run through all of the city's most famous landmarks. But don’t worry, there’ll be plenty of stops along the way and no one is going to be sprinting for a PB. You can then carry those natural endorphins with you for the rest of your day, wherever it may take you.

Stay: Keep that runners high alive with a trip to Capella Sydney’s Auriga Spa. Stay overnight at the luxury hotel and you’ll also have access to all the wellness facilities including an indoor pool, steam room, sauna, ice fountain and in-room pilates.

Kayaking in NSW is becoming increasingly popular and thanks to companies like Navigate Expeditions, it’s also becoming easier. Based on the South Coast, choose from a range of different tours throughout the region.

Our favourite? The Kaya and Shuck tour which will see you paddle through the natural oyster farm, learning the intricate details before sampling goods to reward you for your physical efforts. As one of the most nutrient dense foods on the planet, they are the perfect accompaniment to a wellness weekend, especially when paired with the gentle movement and calming rhythm of kayaking in Australia.

Stay: Currajong Retreat is the pinnacle of glamping in NSW, boasting three cliff top tents each with an open fireplace and outdoor bathtub overlooking the trees. Talk about serenity!

Hiking in NSW is a popular choice for many, and for good reason. But if you're after something to get the heart pumping, why not swap the boots for wheels and give mountain biking a go?

K7 Adventures offers retreats plus group and private rides through the Snowy Mountains catering to all skill levels. Feel a bit out of your comfort zone? Perfect! Pushing your limits in a safe and supportive environment is one of the best ways to grow and who knows, you might just discover a new hobby along the way. If you’re more of an on foot explorer, K7 also runs guided country walking tours in NSW.

Stay: It’s rustic, off-grid and complete with an outdoor bath, need we say more? Mill Cabin is the perfect way to unwind after an adrenaline-filled day in the Snowies.