Australia’s new breed of urban bathhouses

Australia’s next-gen bathhouses blend Japanese and Scandi influences with local design flair to create refreshingly neutral canvases for relaxation. Clare Acheson explores the reclamation of communal bathing.

It has been said that to get more out of life, you need to do a lot less. Australia’s revival of bathing traditions comes at a time when many of us have emerged from an extended period of doing less, with a burning desire to dive shoulder-deep into doing more. Travel, reunions, nightlife and professional catch-ups make up a lengthy list of engagements to be reserved at venues and inked in diaries. It’s thrilling and yet, paradoxically, never before has rest felt quite so necessary.

The restive Adytum space. (Image: Lean Timms) — Relax and restore at Adytum Spa. (Image: Lean Timms)

It shouldn’t be a surprise, then, that bathing – heralded as an ancient ritual that many of us relish when travelling abroad – has emerged as 2022’s activity trump card. Australia’s new breed of urban bathhouses are the pick of the bunch for some solid #metime. To be suspended in water is quite literally to have a weight taken off, doubly so when our phones are locked away for safekeeping lest they come to an unfortunate watery end.

A bath inside Comma, Melbourne. (Image: Tess Kelly) — Take time to pause and draw breathe at Comma. (Image: Tess Kelly)

Inclusivity is a common theme inside these spaces. Boundaries that perpetuate division, such as gender separation and even clothing, are set aside in favour of unspoken unison. Let’s face it: between travel restrictions, vaccine mandates and the May federal election, there’s been a lot to remain divided on. So it’s refreshing, then, to see businesses step forward to break down binaries that have been keeping us apart, both literally and metaphorically.

Architecturally, ideas call upon our collective travels with inspiration drawn from Japanese onsens, Finnish saunas and Nordic ice-bathing traditions woven together by local talent into clean aesthetics that put mindful experiences at the forefront.

Couch and plants fill the waiting room at Sense of Self. (Image: Martina Gemmola) — Indulge in self-care at Sense of Self, which is an oasis of calm. (Image: Martina Gemmola)

Sense of Self, Melbourne

Photogenic Melbourne retreat Sense of Self pioneers what its founding duo describes as “healthy hedonism", which has been designed to be accessible to all. Run by filmmaker Mary Minas and hotelier Freya Berwick, the bathhouse is set up in an industrial factory building that was reworked by an all-female design team that included members of Setsquare Studio, Chamberlain Architects and Hearth Studio. Once inside, it’s impossible to ignore the architecture’s grounding permanence, which is an ode to terrazzo, living copper, concrete and sandstone.

Changing rooms at Sense of Self. (Image: Martina Gemmola) — Switch your phone to ‘SOS only’ at Sense of Self. (Image: Martina Gemmola)

All areas are gender-neutral and a shared mineral bath that’s the size of a small swimming pool features an accessibility hoist so that no visitors are left high and dry. Add an 80°C Finnish sauna, a steam room, chilled plunge pool and bowls of free-flowing healthy nibbles, and it’s easy to lose track of your two-hour booking window.

Nestled amid Collingwood’s trendy bars and restaurants, this bathhouse also offers massages and runs occasional nude bathing evenings; swimmers optional.

Pool at Sense of Self with draping plants above. (Image: Martina Gemmola) — Soak up the space at Sense of Self, Melbourne. (Image: Martina Gemmola)

Comma, Melbourne

Shifting the dial away from lavender-scented massages and pricey facials is Comma , situated in Cremorne’s compact backstreets in Melbourne. Opened in 2020 mid-lockdown, the outpost of the popular Byron Bay wellness treatment centre is dedicated to the ambient effects of being cocooned away from the city and left to your own devices.

A considered, multi-layered design steps your senses down a notch. Hidden within what was once a mechanic’s workshop, Comma features a huge 18,000-litre cedarwood bath, cold-water shower area and infrared sauna that all nod to Scandinavia. There are also obvious influences from Japan , with wooden partitions and split-level mezzanines separating guests from all the worries of the outside world. Sure, it’s indulgent, but it’s also practical, as it leaves you immediately revived. Best of all: you can visit during your lunch break.

Comma is a stylish Japandi (Japanese-Scandinavian) space where visitors can enjoy massages, bathing in a circular cedarwood bath and infrared saunas. Note: spa treatments are only on offer at the Byron Bay location.

Dark colour scheme bathroom at Comma in Melbourne. (Image: Tess Kelly) — Cocoon yourself away at Comma in Melbourne. (Image: Tess Kelly)

Adytum, Canberra

This hidden bathing oasis in Braddon takes its cues from Ancient Greece with a contemporary wellness twist.

In Canberra, Adytum is the city’s standout dedicated bathing destination. Founder Renee Douros notes gender neutrality as being key to the design of the apothecary-style space, which encapsulates bathing and sauna experiences, wellness treatments, a yoga studio, elixir bar and cafe. Designed by Pattern Studio, the Sydney-based outfit behind The Daily Edited’s stunning retail spaces, the architecture champions concrete, wood, brass and balanced aesthetics, encouraging visitors to dedicate an entire day to recharging through reading, resting and dining.

The Apothecary Lab at Adytum. (Image: Lean Timms) — Try the lotions and potions at Apothecary Lab at Adytum. (Image: Lean Timms)

That Adytum’s Ancient Greek name denotes the innermost sanctuary of a temple is twofold and poses the question: What can be found in visitors’ internal chambers once the hustle and bustle is stripped away?

White space at Adytum Spa. (Image: Lean Timms) — Find a way to wellness at Adytum, Canberra. (Image: Lean Timms)

Soak Bathhouse, Brisbane and Mermaid Beach

Of course, for the days when a peppermint tea or chamomile just won’t cut it, there are swanky spaces that offer a glass of something more fortifying while you’re soaking in wholesome minerals. Gold Coast transplant Soak in Brisbane’s CBD boasts cityscape views that can be enjoyed with a cocktail while catching up with old friends or making new ones.

In fact, owner Alexis Dixon hopes that Soak’s modern design brought to life by Space Cubed Design Studio, which usually designs bars and restaurants, will encourage mingling outside of regular social circles and forming new connections with others who value what you value: micro-dosing relaxation to maintain balance in busy lives.

Flowers atop steps at Sense of Self. (Image: Martina Gemmola) — Beautifully styled spaces are a hallmark of the new bathing experience. (Image: Martina Gemmola)

In a world where busyness is so often worn as a badge of honour that quickly becomes a burden to bear, bathing in spaces that are as visually appealing as they are physically restorative is a ritual that deserves to be moved up the to-do list. A reminder that rest is radical, achievable and totally worth our while.

Traipse Jurassic cliffs and wander secluded beaches on Australia’s most enchanting walks.

Australia’s landscapes are made for hiking. Take the Red Centre, dusted in shifting sands and dotted with miraculous geological formations. Or our rainforests, left behind as the sole souvenir from continents that no longer exist. Down south, mottled night skies hang above crashing seas and unwavering cliffs. It makes sense, then, that hiking holidays are rising in popularity. No wi fi, no traffic. Just you and the path less travelled on the Great Walks of Australia in remote and iconic destinations.

What are the Great Walks of Australia?

If nature is your happy place, you’ve likely heard of the Great Walks of Australia, part of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences program since 2013 – a curated collection of 15 all-inclusive, eco-luxury journeys showcasing the country’s most spectacular landscapes with expert guides and incredible meals. GWOA launching in 2013 as

From exploring the peaks of a World Heritage listed island, to journeying through the heart of Australia, and the gentle pull of the majestic Murray – there’s a walking holiday to suit walkers of all experience levels (and interests).

Joining a Great Walks of Australia hike means the pressure is off with all meals, guides and eco-luxury accommodation included.

Where can you hike?

1. Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland

great walks of australia tour group on Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland — Enjoy incredible food along the way.

Around 23 million years ago, volcanoes spewed magma across Queensland’s Scenic Rim . Now, what’s left of the fiery landscape takes the form of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana rainforest.

The Scenic Rim Trail is a four-day guided hike that takes you through the ancient rainforest. You’ll venture out into breathtaking viewpoints across the Main Range National Park. Enjoy a packed lunch, listen out for the duplicitous calls of the lyrebird and enjoy the silence.

You’ll spend your nights in boutique eco-cabins and incredible hospitality.

2. Murray River Walk, South Australia

great walks of australia tour group on — Walk through vibrant wildflower fields.

Murray River Walk pairs easy hiking with blissful evenings cruising the Murray River. Over four days and nights, you’ll follow kangaroo trails through red dirt dusted with vivid patches of wildflowers.

Each day ends on a solar-powered, custom-built houseboat. Watch towering, red sandstone cliffs float by from the top deck spa. Then, it’s three-course meals sourced from local produce and served alongside the region’s best wines.

The entire region you’ll be traversing is within the Riverland Ramsar site. Watch as spoonbills forage for food in the tranquil wetlands, emus parade through the wildflowers, and regent parrots flit above.

3. Maria Island Walk, Tasmania

wombat along the Maria Island Walk tasmania — Spot adorable locals.

Your Maria Island walk begins with a private boat transfer to an untouched, white sand beach. Barefoot in the sand, you’ll quickly realise – aside from your guide and group – you’re completely alone. Spot countless wombats and hear the distant calls of Tasmanian Devils as you spend four days leisurely traversing the island.

Nights are split between private, comfortable wilderness camps and queen-size beds in a historic cottage from the island’s convict history. Meals are built around fresh-caught seafood and served with East Coast Tasmanian wine.

4. Seven Peaks Walk, New South Wales

hiker on Seven Peaks Walks on Lord Howe Island — Explore the incredible Lord Howe Island. (Image: Luke Hanson)

Lord Howe Island feels like another world. With its patchwork blue coral lagoons and magma-honed peaks, it’s easy to forget you’re in New South Wales.

This walk has the highest level of elevation in the Great Walks of Australia’s collection. It’s because of this that you’ll witness nature like never before. UNESCO-listed volcanic peaks and coral reefs that grew out of solidified lava will become your daily norm.

Along the way, step onto beaches that lie undisturbed for weeks at a time. Then, snorkel the southernmost reef in the Pacific Ocean.

5. Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk, Northern Territory

This five-day, fully guided, premium hiking experience inside Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park was developed in partnership with Aṉangu Traditional Owners. Begin your walk dwarfed by the shade of Kata Tjuṯa’s towering dome formations. Following remote desert trails through the red sands, crest dunes and traverse mulga woodlands as you draw closer to the monolithic walls of Uluṟu.

Each night, dine under the lamp light of the Milky Way in the warm desert air and sleep in new flagship, environmentally sensitive private camps and lodge. This is the first time that travellers have ever been allowed to spend the night inside the national park.

6. The Twelve Apostles Signature Walk, Victoria

great walks of australia tour group on The Twelve Apostles Signature Walk, Victoria — See the Twelve Apostles in a new way. (Image: Ken Luke)

The Great Ocean Road’s rugged splendour is best experienced on this signature four-day, 44-kilometre guided walk . You’ll follow the rugged limestone stacks of the shipwreck coastline: wild, crashing waves, curious wildlife, and two national parks.

Finish each day at your luxurious lodge, where you’ll sit with your feet soaking and a glass of wine in hand. You’ll have a single lodge to call home on this walk, meaning you’ll only need to set out with a day pack.

7. Three Capes Signature Walk, Tasmania

On Tasmania’s Three Capes Signature Walk , you’ll feel like you’re walking along the edge of the world. From your boat landing on a remote beach, climb slowly upward for spectacular views and wildlife encounters with pods of dolphins, fur seals and echidnas. Spend days walking Jurassic dolerite cliffs with the wild Southern Ocean as your only constant.

Stay in architecturally designed eco-lodges nestled at the very edge of the world. Think floor-to-ceiling windows, a plunge pool and even an on-site spa to tend to ailments from the hike.

Discover more Great Walks of Australia and start planning your next adventure at greatwalksofaustralia.com.au.