Nestled in the hills and valleys of the Byron Bay Hinterland, Gaia Retreat and Spa is the perfect place to rest, relax and rejuvenate. Situated on 25 acres of lush land near Bangalow in northern New South Wales, it’s easy to see why ‘Gaia’ has taken out one of the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Awards for Favourite Overseas Hotel Spa in Australasia and the South Pacific. Founded in 2005 by Olivia Newton-John, Gregg Cave, Ruth Kalnin and Warwick Evans, this exclusive 20-room property is ideal for a peaceful and comfortable stay. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by the friendly team, who are all committed to their guests’ health and wellbeing, before you’re shown to one of Gaia’s contemporary yet cosy rooms.
Modern comforts
The three levels of cabin-style accommodation are all decorated in a relaxed, elegant style and are surrounded by lush subtropical gardens. The Layana Rooms each feature a plush king-size bed and ensuite bathroom along with a secluded indoor/outdoor deck where you can unwind in peace and quiet. If you enjoy having more space in which to relax, the Sura Terraces are for you – as well as king-size beds and ensuite bathrooms, which feature a generously sized bath, there’s a sunny outdoor deck with a luxurious king-size day bed to recline on. But for the ultimate in comfort and privacy, you can’t go past the Acala Suites, which have either one or two bedrooms, making them well-suited to small groups. These spacious suites include king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, kitchens, separate living areas and a large outdoor deck with a private spa, all overlooking the beautiful Bangalow Hinterland.
Creative cuisine
Once you’ve settled in, head over to Kukura House, a modern-style long house that’s home to the reception, main dining areas and relaxation lounges, all leading out to the open Tevana Deck. It’s here head chef Todd Cameron offers guests a unique culinary experience, serving up fresh and healthy cuisine using the best organic produce from the property’s established garden, the Northern Rivers region and from local farmers and suppliers. Start your day with a buffet and hot breakfast that includes fresh fruit, juice, eggs, bread, gluten-free cereal and muesli, then follow it with a light lunch of organic salad, soups, pasta, bread and more. Dinner is a sumptuous three-course meal tailored to suit your individual needs, with a range of chicken, seafood and vegetarian options. Fancy a drink with dinner? Take your pick from the range of fine Australian wines.
Day-spa delights
There are also plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay at Gaia, all with a focus on health and wellbeing. Morning yoga is held daily in the Zama Yoga room on the top of Samira Lookout, where you can take in the stunning views of the region. The property also boasts a day-and-night tennis court, heated saltwater swimming pool, and a steam room, sauna and spa, while Viha Fitness Centre offers an array of work-out equipment and classes to suit all fitness levels as well as a full Curves circuit. You can even tailor your stay to include a personalised fitness, weight-loss, detox or yoga program. At the centre of the property is the Amala Day Spa which has over 30 local therapists providing a wide range of treatments, including therapeutic and hot-rock massage, full body wraps, body polishes, facials, manicures and pedicures. There are also specialised ones for both women and men that use natural ingredients sourced from the organic garden and local suppliers. The more adventurous-minded folk will love the guided tour of the local area in which they can do a spot of dolphin and whale watching and also take a stroll along the walking paths that lead into the beautiful woodlands of the Wollemi Track – or simply while the day away on a day bed or hammock. With complimentary airport transfers from Ballina and Coolangatta Airports, Gaia Retreat and Spa is an easy trip away – so why not make it your next holiday destination?
Gaia Retreat and Spa
933 Fernleigh Road
NSW Australia 2479
Phone: +61 2 6687 1216
Fax: +61 2 66871 310
Email: info@gaiaretreat.com.au
www.gaiaretreat.com.au
Story by Lauren Broomham