EMBARK ON A WELLNESS JOURNEY THAT EMBRACES NATURE

May 2024

In a world where daily life can leave us feeling drained and disconnected, there's an increasing yearning to return to nature, seeking solace and rejuvenation in its embrace. From serene retreats nestled in lush landscapes to invigorating outdoor activities, there's a back-to nature wellness option waiting to be explored.

TRANQUIL SANCTUARIES

NOONAWEENA, Kulnura (Eco-certified)

Tucked away in the picturesque hinterland, Noonaweena is a sanctuary for weary souls. Surrounded by native bushland and boasting stunning views, it provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. You can delve deep into wellness at Noonaweena, where holistic practices and serene surroundings converge to nurture mind, body and soul.

WATERFALL SPRINGS RETREAT AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, Kulnura

Nature lovers will find solace at Waterfall Springs, where the soothing sounds of cascading waterfalls blend harmoniously with the chorus of birds and the muffled thump of an inquisitive rock wallaby. Immerse yourself in the serenity of winding trails through the wilderness while also unwinding in cosy accommodation.

THE WHITE HOUSE, Spencer

Located in Spencer village and built in 1910, this elegantly restored three-bedroom heritage home is a must stay for all who love period architecture. With river scenery, boating, fishing, hiking, farm style kitchen cooking and breathtaking entertaining areas you can spend your time exploring it all or simply relax in the spa bath and watch the night stars. You’re 30 seconds away from the best of Spencer village, but away enough to enjoy privacy.

IRONBARK RANCH CO, Mangrove Mountain

Stay a while. Unwind in nature’s embrace at Ironbark Ranch, curl up with a book, a drink or a cuppa. Bushwalk to Mt Olive and the Emerald Pools. Spot the wildlife. Enjoy a wellness retreat in bespoke luxury to reconnect and rejuvenate.

RECONNECT AND RELAX

ANJALI WELLNESS CENTRE, Kincumber

Experience transformational healing at Anjali, where personalised retreats cater to individual needs, fostering holistic well-being. In April and June there are ‘Embracing Womanhood’ rites of passage retreats for mothers and daughters. At the Kincumber centre explore meditation, yoga, dance, art therapy and the nourishment of food.

KONDOU BY SARA WELLS SKIN, Kincumber

Kondou, the Japanese word for ‘a pause in time’, offers holistic wellness to let you be the best person you can be, naturally. Enjoy a classical facial to cleanse, exfoliate and rejuvenate, a gentle or deep tissue massage, LED light therapy, a lymph massage or a pre- or post-natal massage. Be pampered in nature’s embrace at Kondou, where luxurious spa experiences await.

CALMA PLACES, online

Find inner balance and tranquillity through energy-cleansing meditation, energy reading, crystals and tea workshops in serene natural settings, reconnecting with the essence of your being.

UNWIND IN NATURE

BOUDDI NATIONAL PARK, Putty Beach/Maitland Bay

Trees, ocean, the wind in your face: how can you not return rejuvenated from a walk along what has been listed as one of the very best coastal walks in Australia. Experience breathtaking beauty, where pristine beaches, a marine sanctuary and coastal forests beckon.

GIRRAKOOL PICNIC AREA, Somersby

Located in Brisbane Water National Park where you can enjoy the free barbecue and picnic facilities, perhaps watch a wallaby or two. A great way to walk off lunch is to take an easy walk along the 2km Girrakool Loop track past Aboriginal rock engravings and waterfalls.

PILES CREEK LOOP, Somersby

Also located in Brisbane Water National Park, this is a Grade 5 day walk that follows the deep Piles Creek gorge through eucalypt forest, across the renowned suspension bridge, past waterfalls to Illoura lookout with scenic views over the forest canopy.

lovecentralcoast.com/girrakool

DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT

Step away from your screens and immerse yourself in some hands-on, meditative, creative and mindful experiences.

PINOT AND PICASSO, Erina

Unleash your creativity at Pinot and Picasso, where painting sessions in serene surroundings offer a therapeutic escape from the digital world.

THE FACTORY, Nougat & Chocolate, West Gosford

Indulge your senses and immerse yourself in hands-on chocolate making workshops at The Factory. Reconnect your inner artisan in a delectable environment.

SHERAMICS, Terrigal

Find joy in the art of pottery at Sheramics, where sculpting clay allows for a mindful retreat from the distractions of modern life.

BRAVEWORDS WRITING, Erina

Engage in the meditative practice of writing while wrapped in nature’s beauty, allowing words to flow freely and thoughts to find clarity in the peaceful embrace of the outdoors.

THE WOOD TAMER, Wamberal

Channel your creativity into woodworking at The Wood Tamer, where crafting with natural materials fosters a sense of connection to the earth and the self. Whatever your choices, there’s so much on offer on the Central Coast to help smooth away the stresses and chaos of modern life. All you need do is to allow the healing power of nature to restore your spirit and nourish your soul.

Learn more at lovecentralcoast.com/wellness-experiences

MEN’S SOCIAL GROUPS ON THE COAST

We often talk about physical fitness, but mental fitness deserves the same weighting. One of the strongest predictors of good mental health is social connection.

THE ICONS THAT SHAPED THE CENTRAL COAST

From a highway dinosaur to a century-old carousel, get to know the region’s
top landmarks and attractions this summer, writes Jennifer Ennion.

SHARING THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

When a four-legged furry one is a close member of your family, you don’t want to always leave them at home when you’re out doing the things you love. Perhaps it’s a beach run and swim, a forest amble, a chilled-out visit to your fave café or something that’s especially you: like a horse ride with your pooch running alongside, or a SUP paddle with doggo aboard alerting you to the fish and ducks ahead.

Summer 25