The 8 best yoga retreats around the country

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Yoga by itself might just help you achieve inner-peace, but practicing it at one of these handpicked luxury yoga retreats which guarantees enlightenment with their yoga software. Whether you’re in need of some R&R, or simply after a getaway that can help to cleanse you; mind, body and soul, these escapes are sure to nourish your soul and reset your batteries. We’ve scanned the country to put together a list of 8 retreats you need to try at least once in your life.

1. Gaia Retreat and Spa, Byron Bay

Samira Yoga Lookout Gaia Retreat Spa Bryon Bay
The Samira Yoga Lookout at Gaia Retreat and Spa sits atop the highest point in the Ballina Shire.

While many flock to Byron Bay for the superb surf and merry nightlife, others journey here to find tranquility and relaxation. The Samira Yoga Lookout at Gaia Retreat and Spa Byron Bay sits atop the highest point in the Ballina Shire. Take in the stunning scenery that stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the Nightcap Ranges while you practice strength and flexibility with your personal yoga instructor.

 2. Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania

The breathtaking and isolated Saffire Freycinet Tasmania offers an invigorating spa regime and a range of wellbeing programs. Each suite has its own yoga mat. Enjoy a calming yoga session on site or in the comfort of your lustrous timber suite on Tasmania’s east coast.

 

Hammocks dispersed amongst the courtyard provide an alluring space to cocoon yourself and spend the afternoon daydreaming afterwards.

3. Qualia, Hamilton Island

Grab a yoga mat and watch the setting sun cast shades of gold and pink over the tranquil turquoise waters of the Whitsundays. Qualia’s group sessions take place at dusk from the Hamilton Island Yacht Club, or in its Yoga Pavilion on site.

 

A one-on-one session with your personal instructor will help you in designing a program to continue once you’ve returned home.

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4. Billabong Retreat, NSW Central Coast

You would never expect a canopied and tropical oasis only an hour away from the heart of the bustling Sydney CBD, but Billabong Retreat Central Coast is just that. Cabins are nestled among trees that overlook a natural, flower-filled billabong. Stress and tension can wave goodbye, with an abundance of carefully crafted relaxation and mindfulness activities to take part in.

5. Samadhi Retreat, Daylesford

Aplacas Samadhi Retreat Daylesford
Alpacas roam the grounds of Samadhi Retreat in Daylesford.

It is fitting that in the heart of spa country lies Samadhi Retreat Daylesford, an Oriental-style escape providing revitalising spa treatments and therapy. Alpacas roam the majestic grounds that surround the retreat, and ancient Chinese statues sit staring at the endless beauty of the Daylesford region.

 

Enjoy one of the peaceful group yoga sessions that are run daily, or incorporate a one-on-one into your schedule.

6. Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast

If the chance you might encounter Hugh Jackman lounging by the pool doesn’t entice you, we don’t know what will. Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, now co-owned by Jackman himself, is tucked amongst blossoming bushland in a valley overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

 

Challenge yourself with intense hiking and creative dance classes, then take a breather in a movement, yoga or Pilates session.

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7. Eden Health Retreat, Currumbin Valley, Queensland

Eden Health Retreat, Queensland

Start your day with a calming yoga class amid a lush green stretch in the heart of the Hinterland’s Cumberland Valley. Eden Health Retreat pays particular attention to healthy eating by using enticing local and bio-dynamic produce in its daily menu. From cardio boxing to laughing yoga, there are plenty of unique activities to incorporate into your personally designed daily schedule.

8. Injidup Spa Retreat, Margaret River

Injdup Spa Retreat Margaret River
Injidup Spa and Retreat looks out onto sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.

Injidup Spa Retreat is located in an idyllic, vineyard-covered pouch of the Margaret River region. Made up of 10 private villas, each with its own plunge pool, Injidup is a luxury escape designed for relaxation. Meditation sessions are performed by Joel, a former Buddhist monk who previously studied in Sri Lanka and India, while yoga and a variety of spa treatments are also on offer.

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Georgina Meredith

Georgina Meredith

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Vanilla slice to desert racing: 8 must-see Mildura events

Sun-drenched Mildura is set to host a spirited array of events for guaranteed good times.

Nestled on the banks of the Murray River, the rural town of Mildura punches well above its weight for cultural events throughout the year. And it’s the perfect escape for those who like to find award-winning food and wine, ancient outback landscapes and a relaxed river lifestyle all in one place.

Whether you’re an oenophile on the hunt for your next favourite bottle of wine or a motor enthusiast looking for high-octane action, these events are equal parts unique and unforgettable, and offer the best ways to experience the Mildura region.

1. Mildura Fringe Festival

Mildura Fringe Festival mildura events
Enjoy a stellar line-up of arts and entertainment.

Mildura Fringe Festival is gearing up for another huge year of feel-good fun in 2026. From 29 October – 15 November, attendees will find a stellar line-up of arts and entertainment acts, spanning burlesque, comedy, theatre, live music and circus shows. Standouts include the Shake It! burlesque act, hosted by Minnie Andrews, and the first annual Mildura Pride Day. You’ll also find beer gardens, multiple bars and family-friendly venues to get the party started, as well as a tasty curation of food trucks.

2. Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show

Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show mildura events
Taste a selection of the over 800 wines entered into the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show.

Oenophiles and occasional imbibers alike are almost guaranteed to find their next favourite drop at the Australian Alternative Varieties Wine Show. More than 800 wines from nearly 70 regions across Australia are entered into the competition, which has celebrated lesser-known innovative wines and emerging grape varieties for more than 20 years. There are a host of events from 4–7 November, from the Show Tasting – where you can sample as many entries as you like – to a delicious three-course dinner with matching wines curated by renowned Italian-Australian chef and festival co-founder Stefano de Pieri.

3. Cullulleraine Music Festival

Cullulleraine Music Festival mildura events
Listen to local, national and international artists. (Credit: David Sickerdick)

Adored for its ‘salt of the earth’ reputation that fosters welcoming regional vibes, the Cullulleraine Music Festival is a community-driven, not-for-profit music festival that hits all the right notes. Taking place from 9–11 April 2027, the lineup showcases a diverse range of local, national and international artists, including Harry Manx, Cat & Clint and Deep South Brass 8.  Festivalgoers can get down to folk, blues and roots music, and can join immersive experiences such as drumming circles and Celtic jam sessions – all in front of golden sunset views across Lake Cullulleraine.

4. Balloons Over Mildura

Balloons Over Mildura events
Watch the skies light up with colourful hot air balloons.

Mildura is set for a glow-up when this illuminating winter event comes to town. Around June to July each year, the Balloons Over Mildura takes over the skies. Be sure to catch the festival’s popular Night Glow event, where illuminated balloons light up the evening sky in a choreographed display. Order some fairy floss and a kebab and lay down a picnic rug to admire the colourful designs as they soar above. Little ones are also well looked after with children’s games.

5. The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph

The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph mildura
Taste the best vanilla slice in Australia.

The title of ‘best vanilla slice in Australia’ is fiercely contested. With its velvety custard sandwiched between flaky pastry, the iconic Aussie treat – affectionately known as a “snot block” – is a beloved bakery staple for good reason. Since 1998, bakers from all across the country have converged on Commercial Street in Merbein every year to compete in the Great Vanilla Slice Triumph. On 15 August, taste the creamy dessert at numerous stalls, then watch the winner be crowned by six professional baking judges. You’ll also find live music, children’s activities, market finds and vintage cars. May the sweetest treat win!

​6. Hattah Desert Race

Hattah Desert Race
Feel the excitement of Hattah Desert Race, whether you ride or not.

Whether you’re a motorhead or new to the world of racing, experiencing the thrill of off-road motorcycling at Australia’s largest desert race is worth writing home about. In July, the Hattah Desert Race sees nearly 900 junior and senior motorcyclists dash across 300 kilometres of red dirt and sand. Established in 1998, the high-speed enduro race is widely considered the most demanding motorsport race in the country, promising spectators an electrifying weekend up close to the action.

7. Goanna Run

goanna run mildura fashion show
See the best dressed at Goanna Run’s fashion show.

Every year, rev heads from around Australia bring their unique vehicles together for the Goanna Run, a buzzing hot rod and custom car festival. Held from 23–25 October and hosted by the Desert City Rodders, the weekend is a celebration of hot rods, rock ‘n’ roll and food trucks. Marvel at the hundreds of classic and vintage vehicles at Langtree Mall for The Show ‘n’ Shine event, and get some serious fashion inspiration from the ’50s-style fashion show. The events take place next to the picturesque Murray River, so a paddlesteamer cruise is also worth adding to the itinerary.

8. Mildura Easter Powersports Weekend

Mildura Easter Powersports Weekend
Become a rev head at Mildura Easter Powersports Weekend.

Go full throttle over the Easter long weekend with the ultimate horsepower party. The Mildura Power Sports Weekend is a multiday racing series held at Timmis Speedway, Sunset Strip and the Murray River, guaranteeing plenty of action and adrenaline. Fuel your obsession for all things motorsports with ski racing, arena motocross, speedway and drag racing events, and up your motor knowledge with organised fan meet-and-greets and talks. The weekend also features live music and family-friendly entertainment.

Start planning your eventful trip to Mildura at mildura.com.