10 Luxe Day Spas in the Hunter Valley To Unwind At Now

Cheese is certainly appetising but a day spa in the Hunter Valley serves as the ultimate pairing to top-shelf wine.

Romantic retreats, girls’ getaways or quality family time – no matter which getaway calls, the cherry on top is dedicated me-time at a Hunter Valley day spa. As an added incentive, each unique space is encircled with rolling vineyards to instantly soothe my frazzled brain ahead of wine o’clock revelry. From over-too-soon massages and hydrating treatments to wellness programs filled with spoils for the soul, I’ve collated the finest options to get you floating.

In short

If you only have time for one day spa in the Hunter Valley, make it Elysia Wellness Retreat for being the region’s most grand, and beautifully positioned, serenity source ever since the brand rebranded from the former Golden Door in 2019.

1. Elysia Wellness Retreat

the heated indoor pool at Elysia Wellness Retreat — Unwind in the heated indoor pool.

The jewel in the Hunter Valley’s self-care crown is Elysia Wellness Retreat , a magnificent property perched atop a dramatic hill that offers sweeping views of the region and gives serious James Bond villain-home vibes (drama replaced with overwhelming Zen, of course). All-inclusive two to seven-night programs are personalised to individual goals and filled with outdoor and indoor activities, seminars, and workshops with experts including nutritionists, naturopaths and psychologists. There’s also lavish daily meals packed with organic goodness and spa treatments (plenty more on the day spa itself just below). As for your digs, they come in the shape of one, two or three-bedroom suites with balconies, king beds and large bathtubs. Visitors should also note that while there’s a literal valley of grape crushing at Elysia’s doorstep, retreats do not serve alcohol.

Where: 165 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

Prices: From $1,510 per person for two nights

2. The Day Spa at Elysia Wellness Retreat

a facial treatment at Elysia Wellness Retreat day spa — Elysia Wellness Retreat promotes holistic treatments.

I can steal a taste of the luxe life without forking out for a multi-day package at Elysia Wellness Retreat’s Day Spa . Located at the centre of the property, this day spa in the Hunter Valley welcomes day trippers and tallies more than 50 unique treatments across 26 wet or dry rooms, making it an ideal option for the group of four I booked during a recent girls’ trip. It’s grand yet tranquil, and that’s despite the waiting area welcoming a steady stream of guests. Except a buffet of massage types, skin health consultations and facials, deeply hydrating body treatments, extravagant spa packages and grooming including waxing, plus an entire menu dedicated to restorative practices spanning breathwork, energy healing, tarot reading, hypnotherapy and wellness coaching. I especially love how beautiful Sodashi and Babor products are utilised so expertly, where relevant, and the staff are utterly professional every time.

Where: 165 Thompsons Rd, Pokolbin

Prices: View the spa menu

3. The Spa at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley

Chateau Elan Hunter Valley from above — De-stress with a view. (Image: Chateau Elan Hunter Valley)

Set against a Greg Norman-designed golf course, The Spa at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley is an extremely chic oasis I’ve also been solidly impressed with during several past trips. A collection of 17 treatment rooms house wellness wizardry in the way of relaxation and therapeutic massages, body exfoliations, facials (including the 80-minute De-Stress Organic Luxury Facial I was last treated to, which included divine scalp and limb massaging), an extensive range of packages, and grooming vitals like waxing, manis, pedis and spray tanning. Make time for the Hydrolounge and Deck area which is fitted with two outdoor mineral spas to detoxify you further. Product-wise, Australian-grown clean beauty label iKou is leant upon, while the staff are endlessly attentive, on hand to whip up cheese platters and glasses of bubbles if you’re feeling peckish.

Where: Vintage Dr, Pokolbin

Prices: View the spa menu

4. Reflections Day Spa at Adina Vineyard and Olive Grove

Lovedale’s beloved pit-stop for plump olives and tapenades, right off the Lovedale turnoff along the Hunter Expressway, is also home to an epic day spa in the Hunter Valley. Reflections Day Spa at Adina Vineyard and Olive Grove is an ultra-serene spot dotted with several al fresco spaces to help bring your glorious surroundings directly to your indulgence. Treatments are expertly performed, spanning four styles of massage starting at $129 for 50 minutes, dermablading, sumptuous facials, body polishes, body wraps and affordable add-ons like waxing and tints. Plus, there are platters with cheese and fruit so you can make an afternoon of it.

Where: Adina Vineyard and Olive Grove, 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale

Prices: View the spa menu

5. Ubika Day Spa at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley

Ubika Day Spa, Rydges Resort Hunter Valley — Rest and recharge in the sanctuary suite.

One of the most luxurious accommodation spots in the region – centrally located Wine Country Drive – is home to another heavenly day spa in the Hunter Valley. Ubika Day Spa at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley set me on the path to Zen from the moment I stepped through its doors. And while I visited solo, the space is especially perfect for couples. I was very jealous of guests being led to the swish Couples’ Suite fitted with a private spa bath that’s often lit up via candlelight. If you’re like me and travelling stag, however, never fear. Treatments span body rituals with fancy Vichy showers, facials, muscle-melting full-body massages starting at $160, and a range of add-on extras including head and scalp treatments and eye masks.

Where: 430 Wine Country Dr, Lovedale

Prices: View the spa menu

6. Spa Anise at Spicers Vineyards Estate

Sleek interiors inspired by nature bring the best of the outdoors into Spa Anise at Spicers Vineyards Estate . Located in the heart of one of the region’s most elegant boutique stays, Spicers Vineyards Estate, the day spa in the Hunter Valley is intimate while evoking exclusivity via just two treatment rooms that flow into private courtyards. It’s a magical spot to bring a small group as you’ll have the entire space to yourselves. Treatments utilise Australian-made products from Waterlily and Spaceuticals and include the standout Vino Therapy facial which works to kick start collagen and smooth fine lines as it leans into pure shiraz pressings. Could there be any more fitting a Hunter Valley day spa option? Massages and ‘Extra Spice’ add-ons are also encouraged to indulge every limb.

Where: 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

Prices: View the spa menu

7. Heavenly Hunter Massage & Wellbeing

a massage treatment at Heavenly Hunter Massage & Wellbeing — Heavenly Hunter treatments and meditation sessions are guaranteed to help you relax.

Nailed your cellar door call sheet and desperate to hibernate already? I feel you. It’s why I must point out the region’s best mobile massage services which start with Heavenly Hunter Massage & Wellbeing . Specialising in the art of Hawaiian massage with a Bodyworks qualification under her belt, owner Amanda Drew leads a team built to facilitate deep in-house R&R. Amanda is also a Reiki Master and qualified in nutrition coaching, so services are designed to be holistic as they melt you. Treatments include a wide range of massages, facials, healing therapies and yoga.

Where: It travels to accommodation within Pokolbin, Broke, Lovedale, Mount View, North Rothbury, Wollombi and surrounding suburbs.

Prices: View the website for comprehensive pricing

8. Thai Nature Mobile Massage

Another popular pick in the local mobile massage game is Thai Nature Mobile Massage , which operates out of two Cessnock locations in addition to travelling to your Hunter Valley accommodation. If you’re heading to their brick-and-mortar operations, choose from a stack of massages: hot stone, deep tissue, Thai, remedial… you name it, they’ll nail it. There are also packages that bundle several options up and one of those trendy Japanese head spas. The same options are available if you’re ordering in, like I have in the past, as most services (sans the head spa) can be replicated via mobile massage beds. My tip? Make sure you enquire with plenty of notice as these guys are busy.

Where: 40 Cumberland St, Cessnock and 81 Vincent St, Cessnock, and the team travel right across the Hunter Valley

Prices: Visit the website for all pricing

9. Nu Leaf Retreat

a couple's massage at Nu Leaf Retreat, Pokolbin — Nu Leaf Retreat offers relaxing treatments for couples looking to decompress together.

Consider Nu Leaf Retreat a blank canvas to help you craft the wellness retreat of your dreams. Located in the thick of Hunter Valley’s action on Hermitage Road, the picturesque slice of nature caters to groups of up to 24 people. You can BYO experts – chefs (or food), therapists and coaches – but Nu Leaf can also connect you with local wellness and beauty professionals to help facilitate your experience. Ten rooms feature private patios and ensuite bathrooms, plus there’s a communal lounge, an undercover entertaining area with a barbecue, a magnesium pool, spa and steam room and an outdoor pool.

Where: 647 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

Prices: Visit the website for comprehensive pricing

10. Miliya

pilates with Elizabeth at Miliya — Strengthen your core with a trained Pilates practitioner. (Image: Miliya)

Another choose-your-own-adventure day spa in the Hunter Valley, Miliya hosts wellness retreats that pack in self-care indulgences and also open the space to guests who are keen to craft their own itineraries. It’s decked out with everything a private group may need including a hot yoga studio with 18 mats and all the gear, a reformer Pilates studio with eight machines, a gym, an ice bath, two treatment rooms with massage tables, an infrared sauna and all the technology to hook up your beats and tutorials. Additionally, the fit out is Instagram-awesome as soft drapes let natural light flood in, and minimalistic styling makes for perfect mirror selfies from every angle.

Where: 283 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale

Prices: Enquire through the website

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

Our guide to every dreamy day spa in the Hunter Valley

Cheese is certainly appetising but a day spa in the Hunter Valley serves as the ultimate pairing to top-shelf wine.

In short

1. Elysia Wellness Retreat

2. The Day Spa at Elysia Wellness Retreat

3. The Spa at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley

4. Reflections Day Spa at Adina Vineyard and Olive Grove

5. Ubika Day Spa at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley

6. Spa Anise at Spicers Vineyards Estate

7. Heavenly Hunter Massage & Wellbeing

8. Thai Nature Mobile Massage

9. Nu Leaf Retreat

10. Miliya

Taste exceptional drops at the best vineyards in the Hunter Valley

14 unique Hunter Valley wine tours for more than easy transport

A foodie’s guide to the divine Hunter Valley chocolate and cheese trail

Every distillery in the Hunter Valley for exceptional gin and whiskey

The tastiest new players on Newcastle’s dining scene you need to try

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

2. Destination dining

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

5. Newcastle nightlife