The best spa holidays in Australia — for treating yourself

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As solo travel gains momentum, we seek out the best resorts for numero uno.

A recent survey by TripAdvisor* has found that one in three Aussie women travel alone for leisure, with 82 per cent saying it’s because they “want to get away from it all". In fact, nearly two-thirds of these women reported that travelling alone had changed them in some way.

 

A bit Eat Pray Love, perhaps, but we get it. Escaping work, kids, commitments, traffic, bills, bills, bills, however fleeting it may be, is liberating. Perhaps Elizabeth Gilbert was onto something after all. Here are eight solo retreats… just for you.

1. Miamo Retreats, Far North Queensland

Botanical Ark Retreat, Far North Queensland.
Botanical Ark Retreat, Far North Queensland.

Frank Frikker and Renee wanted to get away from their former high-flying corporate careers so they made a sea change to Port Douglas 10 years ago, opening up two day spas in the area. Their new venture – Miamo Retreats – goes one step further than your usual pampering treatments with programs designed for corporate people who ‘have lost touch with life and nature’ – sound familiar? – and are ideal for solo travellers.

 

With staff heralding backgrounds in counselling, nutrition and life coaching, the major focus is on mindfulness through education – so participants have skills to take home with them to utilise every day. Nourishment is also on the menu (you’ll feast on organic, locally-sourced food) and there is yoga, tai chi and meditation. The program location alternates between the beautiful Botanical Ark Retreat and Niramaya Resort & Spa, both set in lush tropical north Queensland surrounds.

2. Dirty Girls 4×4 weekend, Queensland

South-west Queensland, not exactly what you think of when you hear the word ‘retreat’, but sometimes the best way to relax is to do something out of your comfort zone. Cue Dirty Girls 4×4 weekends: female-only breaks where you can shortcut stress with some back-to-basics fun.

 

Based in different regions of Queensland (Moreton Island and Fraser Island included) each retreat includes four-wheel-driving on white sandy beaches, snorkelling through shipwrecks, boating, playing beach volleyball and drinking champagne around the, er, glamp-fire. It’s popular with solo travellers thanks to the female-only aspect. BYO 4WD (and courageousness).

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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4. KalyaaNa Spa and Wellness Retreat, Bridgetown, WA

KalyaaNa Spa and Wellness Retreat, east of Margaret River.
KalyaaNa Spa and Wellness Retreat, east of Margaret River.

Having trouble remembering what sleep is? Yes, us too. Perhaps a ‘sound therapy’ treatment here will remind you. Located in the heart of beautiful Blackwood River Valley, east of Margaret River, this secluded retreat has only two suites and offers fully-customisable packages including reiki, shiatsu, kinesiology, therapeutic massage, art therapy and guided meditations.

 

The sound therapy package involves using vibrations from Tibetan singing bowls to send you into a dream-like state. Interesting… but research shows it can detoxify the body at a cellular level. Our PJs are packed. From $580 for two nights.

5. Harmony Hill Health Retreat, Hobart, Tasmania

Travelling solo gives you licence to do exactly what you want (hurray!) so why not spoil yourself silly? Just half-an-hour outside of Hobart’s centre, Harmony Hill Health Retreat is just the place. This modern, light-filled, 42-acre country stay offers a three-night ‘Ayuvedic Retreat’ (basically a fancy term for ‘many massages’ – in this instance, anyway) especially for singles: a Chakra healing experience, an Ayuverdic bundle massage, reflexology, a sauna, spa bath… and all using eco-friendly, organic products.

6. Arajilla Retreat, Lord Howe Island, NSW

There’s quite possibly nowhere better to really get away from it all than at this luxurious retreat on stunning Lord Howe Island where you can totally unplug from the world – that’s right, no mobile coverage, no wi-fi and no TVs in any of the 12 suites.

 

Nestled within palms and banyan trees, Arajilla Retreat offers a range of wellness programs with a focus on Ayurvedic spa treatments including our favourite, the ‘Sleep Easy’ package. You can also indulge in sumptuous local produce prepared just for you including ocean-fresh fish.

7. Samadhi Retreat, Macedon Ranges, Vic

Samadhi Retreat, Macedon Ranges, Daylesford Spa Country, Victoria
Samadhi Retreat, Macedon Ranges, Victoria

The Samadhi Retreat, near Daylesford’s spa country, is all about you and only you.

 

Catering to just one person at a time, you’ll have a private, self-contained sanctuary all to yourself. Imagine the serenity! Book the ‘Overnight Wellness Retreat’ to bliss out with a three-hour therapy treatment – think salt scrub, mud wrap, massage with their best korean moisturizer– and meditation. Samadhi itself means ‘infinite peace’ – we like the sound of that…

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8. Authenticity Spa Resort, Port Elliot, SA

Authenticity Spa Resort, Port Elliot, SA.
Authenticity Spa Resort, Port Elliot, SA.

There’s something instantly soothing about being on the coast, don’t you think? So what better way to recharge the batteries than with a devoted pamper package for one on South Australia’s picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula.

 

A luxe overnight stay at the European-inspired and renovated 1864 villa will get you a relaxing massage, long hot soak in the uber-deep geisha spa bath with mineral salts, full use of the gym, outdoor pool and spa facilities, a three-course chef’s selection dinner and continental breakfast to boot. See authenticity.com.au

 

*TripAdvisor’s inaugural Women and the World Travel Survey

 

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From reef to rainforest: Discover the best Port Douglas experiences

(Credit: TTNQ)

    Lucy Cousins Lucy Cousins
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    Ancient rainforest, coral reefs, laid-back luxury and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Port Douglas offers a side of Australia unlike anywhere else.

    Mornings in Port Douglas start with a beautiful symphony. As day breaks, the lyrical calls of Rainbow Lorikeets, cries of the sulphur-crested cockatoos and rhythmic Coral Sea waves create a colourful soundtrack for Tropical North Queensland’s sunrise. If there’s one place in Australia that captures the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back living, it’s here. This small, seaside village has just enough glamour to feel indulgent and just enough barefoot charm to make you feel like you’ve escaped the chaos of everyday life.

    Whether you’re diving into the warm waters on Four Mile Beach or enjoying an ice-cold drink and a Barramundi burger overlooking the marina, Port Douglas offers more than just a seaside holiday.

    Local gourmet goodies

    Nautilus restaurant port douglas
    Nab an open-air table beneath a canopy of palms at Nautilus. (Image: Toby Stanley)

    The tropical food scene in Port Douglas is influenced by the rich agricultural regions surrounding it, with fresh produce arriving daily from nearby farms and tropical growers across the region. At Nautilus – a hidden, palm-fringed restaurant just off Macrossan Street – the menu showcases regional flavours. Its Signature Nautilus Mango Soufflé is a long-time favourite.

    Nearby, Hi-Tide by the Beach offers a relaxed way beachfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea. From crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls to wild barramundi and a volcanic hot stone steak, taste the diverse flavours of Tropical North Queensland.

    Visitors can also explore the region’s local markets. Port Douglas Markets offers artisan products and tropical treats each Sunday, while the Saturday morning Mossman Markets is the place for fresh local produce from the surrounding farming community.

    Just outside of Port Douglas, Ospreys at Thala Beach Nature Reserve has one of the region’s most memorable dining outlooks. Perched on a small headland between rainforest and sea, take in views across the coastline and mountains while you dine. The seasonal menu highlights local seafood, tropical fruits and native ingredients sourced from across the region

    Travelling with young humans

    Hartley's Crocodile Adventures port douglas
    Catch a spectacle at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Port Douglas caters for all types of visitors, but families especially love the walkable streets, wide beaches and range of activities nearby. An attraction that never fails to delight all ages is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park with some of the region’s largest crocodiles. Here, you’ll also find koalas, cassowaries, turtles and other Australian wildlife.

    For something slower paced, sit back and enjoy a tranquil visit aboard the historic Lady Douglas River Cruise. Glide along the calm waters of Dickson Inlet, keeping an eye out for birdlife and estuarine crocodiles along the mangroves. Children can take part in activity sheets onboard and even have the opportunity to help steer the boat.

    This region is also deeply connected to Indigenous culture, and a Dreamtime Walk is one way to learn about it. Discover the stories, traditions and connection to Country of the local Kuku Yalanji people from local Indigenous guides, while exploring the rainforest and waters of Mossman Gorge.

    Exploring local waterways

    Coya Beach port douglas
    Walk along the peaceful Cooya Beach. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Join a guided tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to explore the peaceful Cooya Beach. Led by deeply knowledgeable local Aboriginal guides, try seasonal local bush tucker, take in the beautiful landscape and gain insight into the history, culture and traditions of this land.

    Surrounded by dense canopy and ancient species, nearby Hartley’s Creek Falls are at their finest after rain. These beautiful falls are reached via a lush rainforest walk that winds through creek crossings, towering greenery and moss-covered boulders.

    To swim where the locals swim, head out past local farms and into the foothills of the Mossman River to Shannonvale – a low-key freshwater swimming hole surrounded by sun-warmed rocks and deep pockets of clear water. It’s a quiet area to spend a few hours retreating from the world.

    Adrenaline adventures

    Sailaway Port Douglas
    Take to the ocean with Sailaway Port Douglas. (Credit: TTNQ)

    One of the most high-octane ways to enjoy the nature of Tropical North Queensland is white-water rafting down the impressive Barron River. With Grade two and Grade three rapids, expect plenty of splashing, some teamwork, and a few moments where everyone in the raft screams and laughs at the same time.

    Join Back Country Bliss for the most unique floating experience you’ll ever encounter. Head into the rainforest and float along the serene Mossman River on your individual board, taking in the sights and sounds of the ancient landscape around you.

    If you prefer ocean swimming, Sailaway Port Douglas explores the idyllic Low Isles and the outer reef on their snorkelling tours. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from above or below and look out for coral gardens, giant clams, colourful reef fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles.

    For land-lovers, the Devil’s Thumb is a challenging but rewarding hike with incredible views over the coast and endless cane fields. This 10km return hike will take around six to eight hours, so leave a whole day and pack snacks!

    Experiences that give back

    Skyrail Rainforest Cableway port douglas experiences
    See the rainforest from above on The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (Credit: TTNQ)

    With two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region – it’s not surprising Tropical North Queensland is a hub for eco-tourism. The stunning Daintree Ecolodge was founded on the principles of minimising environmental impact, supporting the local community and teaching guests about the local Indigenous culture. Their elevated rainforest-style ‘bayans’ are tucked among the trees, bringing nature into every part of a guest’s stay.

    Further down the coast, the luxury bungalows and treetop hideaways of Thala Beach Nature Reserve are dotted across 45 acres of protected headland, forest and beach. The property’s design intentionally preserves large areas of native vegetation and beachfront ecosystem, while conserving the surrounding habitat. The private beach and various swimming pools offer a cool retreat from the heat of the day, while the main lodge offers the perfect place to read and relax.

    The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a 7.5-kilometre cableway between Cairns and nearby Kuranda, has won multiple tourism and environmental awards. It’s also the first tourism attraction in the world to achieve Platinum EarthCheck Accreditation, for its long-term environmental management and sustainability initiatives.

    Start planning your Port Douglas adventure at tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au.