This wellness destination, nestled in the rainforests of Mt Tamborine, is set to be the ultimate place to find Zen.
Bathhouses may not be a new concept, but in recent years in Australia, they’ve surged in popularity. The rise of wellness travel has resulted in a slew of bathhouses popping up around the country from Slow House in Sydney’s Bondi to Hepburn Springs Bathhouse in Daylesford.
And Queensland’s Scenic Rim is about to experience its own wave of tranquillity with the opening of a new Japanese-inspired bathhouse in the hinterland town of Mt Tamborine. A one-hour drive from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, it will offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Modern design meets natural tranquillity.
Slated to open in early autumn at Tamborine Mountain Glades retreat, SOL Elements Bathhouse will be a luxurious space that blends ancient bathing traditions with modern wellness innovations. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi, which encourages an atmosphere for relaxation, mindfulness and a deep connection to nature, SOL will be an oasis for those in need of some R&R.
This bathhouse will offer an unparalleled wellness experience.
Visitors can expect Japanese onsens, cold plunge pools, a Himalayan salt cave and infrared saunas to rejuvenate and promote overall wellbeing. Historically, bathhouses have not only been used for hygiene purposes but have acted as a place for socialisation. Communal areas will offer opportunities for connection, while private experiences, such as elemental suites and sensory deprivation float rooms, will also be available.
Stay tuned…
Rachael Thompson is Australian Traveller's Evergreen Editor and a self-proclaimed cheese and Chablis connoisseur. In her role, she creates and manages online content that remains relevant and valuable over time. With a background in publishing and e-commerce in both interior design and travel, Rachael is dedicated to curating engaging content that informs and inspires. She began her career at Belle magazine, then went on to become Senior Content Producer at Homes to Love focusing on Australian House & Garden and Belle, followed by Editor at Bed Threads. Her work has also appeared in Qantas Travel Insider. When she's not writing, editing, or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars, and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list are Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Lord Howe Island.
Beyond the sand, sea and food scene, Townsville is shaping up to be the new events capital of the Sunshine State.
Townsville is quickly making a name for itself as an events capital of Queensland. From worldwide sporting events to celebrations of the arts, there’s never been a better time to align your next tropical getaway with the unbeatable vibes of an event in Townsville.
The yearly calendar is full, meaning there’s an event for everyone. But these are shaping up to be some of the biggest events in 2025.
1. North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA)
24 Sep – 12 Oct 2025
While sun, sea and sand might be the first images conjured up at a mention of Townsville, the tropical city is fast making a name for itself as a cultural hub. Experience it at its best during the North Australian Festival of Arts.
Over several weeks, the famous Strand in Townsville will be bursting with colour, sound and energy as it celebrates the arts, culture and community. Catch theatre, cabaret, dance, circus acts and so much more. Stop to listen to world-class live music and even get involved with interactive workshops.
In previous years, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra performed a free outdoor concert and Brisbane Author, Trent Dalton, was there to share his latest book.
Catch live music and more.
2. Supercars NTI Townsville 500
11-13 July, 2025
Sports fans will be pleased to know that Townsville boasts more than just the NRL Cowboy’s. Those facing the comedown of this year’s Formula 1 can bounce back with the 2025 NTI Townsville 500. Each year, the event draws motorsport enthusiasts from around the country as Supercar racing takes over the streets of Townsville.
Off the race track, the weekend also promises plenty of car tricks and displays – think drifting, car builds and the MotorEx automotive expo – plus live music, ADF displays, freestyle motocross and more.
See supercars take over Townsville.
3. Australian Festival of Chamber Music
25 July – 2 Aug 2025
Clear your ears of the sounds of revving engines with one of the city’s longest-running events, The Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM). Here, some of the world’s most celebrated musicians head to Townsville to perform an impressive 30 concerts over nine days.
The best part? AFCM features exclusive shows that can only be experienced at the festival, like AFCM Concert Conversations, where visiting festival musicians share their personal and professional lives.
Experience exclusive events at the AFCM. (Image: Andrew Rankin)
4. SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week
28 Aug – 2 Sep 2025
Just 20 minutes from the city, koala-filled Magnetic Island is a must-do at any time of year. Time the trip for the annual SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week to not only enjoy paradise, but also five days of tropical racing fun with a twist.
Every August to September, enjoy live bands, parties, beach festivals, markets, long lunches and even mud crab races. All while taking in tropical island views.
Enhance Magnetic Island trips with five days of tropical racing. (Image: TEQ)
5. Wedgwood: Artists and Industry exhibition
23 Apr – 24 Aug 2025
Hailing from England, Wedgwood has been a household name almost since the brand started in 1759 (by Charles Darwin’s grandfather). With over 260 years under the company’s belt since then, its ceramics and designs are popular all over the world.
And now, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry will showcase highlights of the brand’s history – straight from the UK’s Victoria and Albert Museum – at Townsville’s Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.
See the best of Wedgwood. (Image: Getty/ Photonewman)
6. Wallabies v Argentina
6 September
Rugby fans should time their Townsville getaway for September to add watching the Wallabies clash against Argentina from Queensland Country Bank Stadium to their itineraries.
The home ground of the NRL North Queensland Cowboys, this vibrant and stylish $185 million sporting venue in South Townsville is the perfect setting to enjoy sports.
See the rugby at Queensland Country Bank Stadium. (Image: TEQ)
