Get the first look at SOL Elements, Australia’s first ‘floating’ elemental bathhouse.
Get the first look at SOL Elements, Australia’s first ‘floating’ elemental bathhouse.
Wellness can feel like a complicated chemistry experiment these days. Ten thousand steps here, three litres of water there, a sprinkle of meditation, a dash of manifestation and namaste – you’re suddenly an enlightened guru!
But what if you could skip the juggling act and find your zen in one place?
Big ask, we know, but we’ve found it (and you’re welcome). SOL Elements in Tamborine Mountain is your one-stop sanctuary for self-care, and it officially opens this week!
Four years in the making, husband-and-wife duo Russell and Shae Raven have poured heart, soul and an extraordinary amount of detail into this “floating” elemental bathhouse. Designed in collaboration with Design Artisan Co, SOL sits on the lake’s edge – home to turtles, ducks and curious native birdlife – with a circular exterior that appears to hover over the water.
Look closer and you’ll see layers of meaning in every angle. Beneath its curves lies a sacred geometry hexadecagon (that’s a 16-sided shape, for those of us who had to Google it), symbolising the bridge between earth and the divine.
Inside, a Yin Yang Zen Garden blooms around an Eastern Red Bud tree – a nod to the balance of masculine and feminine energy – and Yakisugi (traditional Japanese burnt wood) clads the space, each piece personally hand-burnt by Russell under the guidance of Japanese master craftsman Kenji Nishishita. This is a bathhouse with soul and serious design cred.
Inspired by the four elements – earth, air, fire, and water – SOL is all about unplugging from constant notifications and reconnecting with nature. And yes, phones are off the menu here (cue the collective sigh of relief).
Just 50 minutes from both the Gold Coast and Brisbane, this lush mountain escape is cocooned in rainforest and waterfalls. The soundtrack? Birds, breeze and water – no Spotify required.
From the moment you step inside, you’re guided on an immersive, soul-deep journey. Here’s the low-down:
Communal Bathhouse
Your SOL adventure starts in the Earth Suite and Botanical Scrub Bar – a lush living wall framing a four-metre ironbark slab topped with 111 hand-carved bowls. This is where you create your own luxe body scrub, choosing from ingredients like Australian sea salt, chamomile flowers, hibiscus, spirulina and rose petals – a sensory warm-up before your soak.
Then, it’s time to glide between three outdoor magnesium thermal pools (a toasty 38°C), two bracing 12°C cold plunges, a cedar wood sauna with glass-fronted lake views, a “silent” botanical steam room, and a glowing Himalayan salt cave. Float past the submerged outdoor firepit, tucked just below water level for a dreamy “fire on water” moment. With a cap of 30 guests at a time, it’s intimate, peaceful and worlds away from the hustle.
Elemental Secluded Suites
Need a little “do not disturb” moment? Retreat to one of two secluded suites (yes, one is dog-friendly) with your own mineral bath on the balcony, indoor infrared sauna, ice bath, panoramic lake views, and a private Earth Lab for exclusive scrubs and volcanic clay masks. There’s even a wellness mini-bar stocked with herbal teas by Cloud Hidden (including a cooling white tea called Resonance and a focus-boosting red tea called Transcendence) plus signature “spatinis.”
Float Caves
For a full mental reboot, sink into a magnesium float cave – infused with a powerful blend of Epsom and Dead Sea salts for next-level buoyancy. No noise, no phones, just you, water and bliss.
Massage & Treatments
Finally, drift into the Alchemy Spa where rituals by Synthesis Organics are designed to elevate your elemental journey. There are six bespoke treatments, including the two-hour Signature SOL Transcendence Ritual (energy cleansing, crystal hot stones, facial techniques and a restorative scalp treatment) and the Earthing Immersion – a hot stone and sound journey using stones respectfully gathered with permission from Indigenous Elders across Australia, each with its own connection to the land’s ancient energy.
This isn’t just a bathhouse. It’s an experience built with intention in every detail – from the burnt timber cladding to the bronze fixtures, from the lake-level firepit to the herbal tea station. And now, it’s yours to sink into.
Where: Tamborine Mountain Glades, Cedar Creek Falls Rd & Tamborine Mountain Rd, Tamborine Mountain
When: Monday to Thursday, 8am – 8pm, Friday to Sunday, 8am – 10pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Prepare to be pampered.
There are few pleasures in life greater than a pamper sesh. Whether it’s a massage, facial, soak sesh or… heck, if it involves sitting/lying down and zoning out, just us sign up!
Fun Fact: Did you know Australia has just been ranked as the most desirable wellness tourism destination by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) 2025 Wellness Survey?! We’re not surprised, given the number of fine-ass day spas on the Gold Coast alone!
Speaking of, here’s a list of some of the most beautiful day spas scattered around the GC, for when your body, mind and soul need a little reset.
Set amongst remnant rainforest in front of a lovingly restored 100-year-old farmhouse, enjoy magnesium hot tubs, spas, plunge pools and saunas in a lush outdoor setting, canopied by a majestic fig tree. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Combine your bathhouse experience with a wellness treatment from highly skilled massage and beauty practitioners for the best of both worlds.
Our pick: The Ultimate Relaxation, including hot tub, sauna, essential oil massage and bespoke organic facial
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
It’s at the Hilton- do we really need to say more? Their speciality is their unique Journey Enchancements, which are mini treatments that can be added to your existing services or enjoyed on their own. Specially designed for eforea, they introduce guests to unique, commonly unexperienced techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Count. Us. In.
Our pick: Renewing Vichy Shower Experience, which increases circulation throughout the body, reducing stress and toxins (it’s their signature treatment for good reason)
Where: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
With luxurious accents from pillar to post, it’s not hard to see why this Currumbin gem is one of the GC’s most loved wellness centres. Equipped with a salt therapy room, yoga and pilates classes, meditation and sound healing, along with two registered nurses to undertake everything from PDO threads to IV vitamin infusions and cosmetic injections. It’s the ultimate A-Z of beauty and self-care!
Our pick: Salt Therapy – it’s a wonder treatment
Where: 31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Exquisitely appointed with every detail considered, One Spa offers locally inspired rituals and unique water, body, facial, and massage therapies. If you’re unfamiliar with water therapies, think Vichy showers, steam, and jacuzzi soaks —highly recommend any and all. The spa overlooks the peaceful green landscape, making every treatment a complete mind, body and soul experience.
Our pick: Driftaway (because, obviously). It’s 3.5 hours of melting your worries and cares away.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa
High above the Gold Coast, yet just a short scenic drive from the beaches, this hinterland haven is where luxury, calm, and total reset vibes converge. Nestled in panoramic valleys, the Wellness Spa features a hydrotherapy mineral pool, infrared saunas, and a heated infinity lap pool, while a menu of organic facials, body treatments, massages, and more ensures every visit is tailored to bliss.
Our pick: Getaway Spa Package. Enjoy a Himalayan salt back scrub with hot stones, full body relaxing therapeutic massage and 2hrs full use of spa facilities.
Where: 59 Lowry Ct, Mudgeeraba
Spa by JW is the Gold Coast’s ultimate five-star unwind. Housed inside the luxe JW Marriott, this sanctuary of calm is all about soothing, restoring, and spoiling yourself silly. Think six dreamy treatment rooms, a couple’s suite with twin showers and a stone bath, and tranquil pods made for post-massage bliss.
Our pick: Awaken Your Glow: A full-body massage with Aromatherapy Associates oils, Ultraceuticals facial, copper foot bath ritual, acupressure scalp massage, plus sauna and steam access.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Welcome to Earth’s version of heaven. Chuan Spa at The Langham, Gold Coast, delivers luxury wellness in spades, with a holistic approach unique to the prestigious global hotel group. Offering a range of treatments to both in-house guests and non-hotel guests, expect to leave this serene sanctuary relaxed, reconnected, and revitalised. Not sure what treatment to choose? They’ve got a quiz for that.
Our pick: the signature Chuan Harmony Massage, designed to stimulate meridian harmony. This unique mind, body and soul experience combines the therapeutic elements of acupressure with various relaxation massage techniques to induce a deep sense of calm.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
This modern-styled Australian boutique bathhouse and communal rejuvenation space is pure ecstasy. Offering access to two hydrotherapy spas, a custom-built wet steam room, a traditional red cedar sauna, a magnesium plunge pool, a sundeck, and a lounge area —don’t think, just book. You can even hire this place privately for up to 25 people. Sorry, but does that sound like the perfect gal’s day out or what?
Our pick: Massage + Lunch. One hour stay + A 55 min full body holistic massage followed by a two-course plant-based lunch catered by Greenhouse Canteen and Bar, with a complimentary glass of bubbles, mimosa, spritz or kombucha.
Where: 268 Tallebudgera Creek Rd, Tallebudgera Valley
If you think you’ve experienced all the wellness therapies out there, think again. This place is not messing around, with a unique treatment for just about anything. Of course, they have your indulgent massages and facials (excellent), but have you ever heard of sqEEG Brain Mapping? What about Grounded Movement & Gait Analysis, where a functional sports podiatrist, mindset and breathwork coach, will address the impacts of modern living (eg, excessive screen time and prolonged sitting). Then there’s tarot reading, private meditations, Ayurvedic body scrubs, equine therapy, and that’s just the beginning.
Our pick: Restorative Lymphatics. Discover the numerous benefits of this restorative and harmonising therapy.
Where: 192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley
Spa day goals, right here. Sitting pretty on Level 4 of Mantra on View, just steps from Surfers Paradise Beach, Ocean Day Spa is where pure bliss meets beachside luxury. Expect award-winning massages, facials, and body treatments using premium European skincare brand Afrodita Cosmetics. Relax, refresh, repeat.Our pick: Indulgence Signature Facial, a rejuvenating facial with an AHA peel, neck and shoulder massage, plus a hand and foot treatment to top it off.Where: Level 4, Mantra on View, 22 View Ave, Surfers Paradise
If you’re all about customisation, this is the spa for you. There’s no need to select a treatment – just make a booking and decide once you’re there! For those who allow time for a 1+hour treatment, enjoy complimentary access to the Hammam-inspired steam room to ease your body and mind into spa nirvana. All treatments include time for a personal consultation and post-treatment recommendations.
Our pick: The Plush Princess therapeutic salt scrub, massage and facial massage.
Where: 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
CIEL Spa blends high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury, perched on level two of the glossy new Mondrian in Burleigh. So, yeah, prepare for Lux AF. It’s the city’s first bio-wellness spa, meaning it’s not your average spa situation, and may be the answer to everything that’s ever made you feel meh. They fuse science-backed treatments with holistic rituals in a space that feels like a warm hug, offering facial, body, and couple rituals, as well as cosmetic treatments.
Our pick: perhaps for a very special occasion- The Augustinus Bader Method Collection. The Method Body 90 Minute Massage, The Method 90 Minute Facial, The Method Head Spa, Superfood Lunch.
Where: Level 2, 3 First Avenue, Burleigh Heads
LAN Bathhouse is a modern oasis designed for ultimate unwinding. With hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and private treatment areas, it’s the perfect escape from city life. Whether you’re slipping in for a solo soak, a couples or a friend-treat, LAN makes it effortless to leave tension at the door and emerge feeling completely renewed and recharged.
Our pick: Relax For Two. 60-minute Relaxation Massage + 60-minute Private Bath + 2 Complimentary Non-alcoholic Drinks.
Where: Level 1, SHOP 102, Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
For those who have dreamed of a rich Moroccan escape, this spa’s for you. Experience Moroccan-inspired luxury right on the Gold Coast, with this traditional Moroccan hammam spa. For those unfamiliar, the hammam spa involves a shower or bath steam, followed by a deep exfoliation with a mitt made with a unique woven fabric. As a result, the body and skin are cleansed of toxins, blood circulation increases, and the immune system is stimulated, thereby better supporting the physical and mental systems.
Our pick: Rejuvenating Royal Dream Hammam. Whole-body exfoliation, rose clay wrap, sea salt foot scrub, and hair oiling.
Where: Shop 1 / 71 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
A haven for relaxation? Found! Elizabeth Luxury Day Spa is a premier day spa in Broadbeach, offering calming therapies in tranquil spaces to leave you feeling deeply rested and rejuvenated. From nourishing facials to rejuvenating massages, the peaceful environment encourages you to take a deep breath, unwind, and fully immerse yourself in a little self-care heaven.
Our pick: Celestial Escape. A soothing reset for busy lives or those wanting a refreshing pick-me-up.
Where: Phoenician Resort: 24-26 Queensland Ave, Broadbeach
Name a better place for a day spa than within the stunning O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. We’ll wait….With million-dollar hinterland views, a trip to O’Reilly’s isn’t complete without a stint here. Indulge in one of the relaxing massages, facials, hot stone therapies, spa or steam room treatments, and enjoy some restorative time alone, or with that someone special.
Our pick: The Lost World Ritual. It’s a splurge…but it includes the lot and will change your life.
Where: 3582 Lamington National Park Rd, O’Reilly
Say hello to the brand-new, luxurious, elemental bathhouse, SOL Elements. Hidden in the depths of Mt Tamborine, SOL is a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. From the outside, it’s a sculptural, ring-like facility surrounded by nature. Inside, it’s a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. It’s a complete sensory experience with communal bathing rituals to private retreats and transcendent spa experiences.
Our pick: The Unwind Ritual: Float + Spa Treatment. Floatation Cave 55 mins + Spa Treatment (of your choice) 60 to 125 mins.
Where: Tamborine Mountain Rd & Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain Rd, Tamborine Mountain
Ok, so this is not technically on the Gold Coast, but like Russell Crowe and Nicole Kidman, we’re happy to claim it! Set in the heart of the ‘biggest little town in Australia’, The Banya is a total #mood. The Bathhouse features a tiled lap and three large hot mineral pools hugged by lush foliage and cobblestone pathing. There’s also a wood-fired sauna, a steam room, a cold plunge, five massage treatment rooms, and a rooftop sundeck for post-treatment relaxation. Namaste!
Our pick: Bathhouse and Deep Tissue Massage. 90min bathhouse + 60min massage.
Where: 35-37 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Warm up this winter next to an open fire.
Winter is officially here on the Gold Coast and baby it’s cold outside. When the temperature drops for that hot minute you bet we’re making the most of soaking up the winter vibes, and nothing says winter like cosying up by the fireplace with a glass of red and some of the best food the Gold Coast has on offer. We’ve found the best Gold Coast restaurants with roaring fireplaces so you don’t have to try and flex your fire making skills at home – you’re welcome.
Cora has taken over the iconic Miss Moneypenny’s space—and yes, the fireplace still slaps. This Broadbeach beauty brings the heat with its coastal vibes, bistro menu, and a roaring fire that’ll make you want to cancel your next appointment and settle in till spring. Order a Peach Melba, sip on a Blazing Oasis cocktail, and let the flames (and the ambience) do the rest. Fire, food and fancy vibes? Cora’s got it glowing on.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub has been serving hearty Irish meals for over 30 years — a testament to their popularity amongst tourists and locals alike. While our winters are just a tad warmer than Ireland’s — ok, a lot warmer — we are still thankful they decided to bestow upon us a crackling, open fireplace to gather around over a Guinness or three. Take full advantage of their fireplace and book your Christmas in July for the full Euro-winter effect. We promise a fireside meal at D’Arcy Arms will soften the blow of missing out on that Euro trip.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
It must be said, nothing else makes you feel as warm and fuzzy inside as a glass of wine next to an open fire, meaning The Wine Barrel in Mudgeeraba has seriously got its priorities in order. This tapas and wine bar is a family-owned and run hidden treasure, featuring some of the best tapas and share platters the Gold Coast has seen. So, grab a couple of mates and proceed to devour serious eats, next to the fireplace naturally…
Where: 8/59 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Ok, this one is in the name. Still, the fine-looking InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is home to a restaurant rightly named The Fireplace, and yes, you guessed it: it does indeed have an impressive fireplace within the dining room that is also used for cooking. But don’t just go for the roaring embers; the menu features locally sourced cuisine, a 300-strong wine library and a delightful wine-matched degustation. This is serious date night material, maybe even staying overnight wouldn’t be the worst idea you’ve ever had! There’s even a second fireplace located in the foyer at the Verandah Restaurant and Bar that you can cosy on up to with one of their 50 whiskies.
Where: Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
It’s a Gold Coast institution for good reason, nestled in Mudgeeraba is the colourful ‘roadhouse’ style Mexican joint Panchos. It’s been lovingly restored to its former glory by local couple Lachlan and Maddie (the geniuses who brought us Suzy BBQ and TOKOH), holding onto the iconic 80’s character but dishing up a 2023-approved Mexican feast. We’ve pretty much never met a margarita we didn’t like, but something about them tastes even better when there’s a roaring fireplace and live music to keep you snug and beat the Hinterland chill.
Where: 581 Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba
It might be in the heart of Surfers Paradise, but that doesn’t mean they’ve compromised on comfort and cosiness. Enjoy your dinner or date night out in the lantern lit courtyard or sneak a spot inside by the fireplace, either way the home of refined Persian food might just be one of our favourite Middle Eastern restaurants on the Gold Coast (big call, we know),
Nothing says winter warmer like authentic Persian food, and Shiraz celebrates its roots with authentic and flavour rich entrees and mains. The menu has a little something for everyone from traditional skewers to the richest slow cooked stews, as well as a generous range of vegetarian options. We’re all about warming up from the inside out.
Where: Mantra Wings Surfers Paradise, 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
If you haven’t been to Pasture & Co have you really been to Currumbin Valley? Local, organic and sustainably sourced ingredients are the heroes on Pasture & Co’s menu, and it quite literally caters to everyone (and we mean EVERYONE’s) dietary preferences and cravings. Wholefoods are a hero but if you know a thing or two about coffee, the organic fair-trade brew will blow even the biggest coffee snob away.
Where: 6 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
If crackling fireplaces, cold mountain air and country pub charm are your thing, St Bernard’s Hotel is calling your name (probably from a vintage rotary phone). Perched on Tamborine Mountain, this cosy gem dishes up casual pub fare with a side of sweeping valley views, and yes, a toasty fireplace that’s perfect for warming your mitts between sips of mulled wine or a hearty red. Bonus: there’s a giant St Bernard dog on site. Need we say more?
Where: 101 Alpine Terrace, Tamborine Mountain
Dreaming of a winter dining spot that’s all about ambiance? Tweed River House has you covered. Nestled in a century-old riverside manor, this venue offers chandeliers, pressed metal ceilings and stunning dining room, complete with an impressive open fireplace to set the perfect scene. Savour plates that showcase the finest produce of the Tweed region. During the cooler months, enjoy lunch on the heated river verandah, but come dinner time, it’s all about cozying up by the fire. This is the perfect spot for a long lunch or an intimate dinner, making it a must-visit destination this winter!
Where: 131 River Street, South Murwillumbah NSW
The Paddock at Beechmont Estate is giving major cosy country manor energy, and the fireplace? Chef’s kiss. This chef-hatted gem serves up paddock-to-plate perfection, with seasonal dishes that spotlight the best of the Scenic Rim. Settle in by the fire with a glass of local red and let the mountain air, crackling logs and five-star flavours do the heavy lifting. It’s like a warm hug from the hinterland.
Where: 422 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
Saint Marthe brings French flair to Tamborine Mountain.
Ooh la la! From the creative minds behind the beloved El Burro Cantina, husband-and-wife team, Marcus McKay and Amalia Tambling, have traded tacos for terrines, blending their culinary expertise with a dash of Parisian panache.
The brasserie takes its name from Saint Marthe, the Patron Saint of Hospitality, and Rue Saint Marthe in Paris, where Marcus and Amalia lived while running the kitchen of a bustling bar and restaurant. Inspired by those years of French adventures, they’ve created a slice of Paris right in the heart of Tamborine Mountain.
Saint Marthe is as much about community as it is cuisine – a gathering place where friends, family and even furry friends like Maisie, their beloved Jack Russell, come together for good food and good vibes. “It’s a beautiful building in the centre of town in a beautiful place where we know so many members of the community,” says Amalia.
With decades of hospitality experience from Europe to Vanuatu, Marcus and Amalia have poured their passion into every detail of Saint Marthe. And we mean EVERY detail. From the large mirrors, bench seating, brass accents and VJ panelling, the couple have had a hand in the floor, walls and ceiling of the restaurant, with the help of their brilliant builder John Ward. It’s Parisian chic meets Queenslander charm, perfectly complimenting the French-inspired menu.
In the kitchen, Marcus teams up with longtime friend and local chef Angeline Olive to create a menu that’s as comforting as it is sophisticated. While the food sings French classics, the vibe stays quintessentially local, blending Tamborine’s relaxed atmosphere with that irresistible je ne sais quoi.
With everything made in-house – oui, even the pickles and mustard – Saint Marthe doesn’t just serve food, it serves stories on a plate. Pop in for a charcuterie board piled high with pork terrine, ocean trout rillettes, house cured meats, pickles & fresh bread. Settle in for a hearty main, like a classic Steak Frites with house aged, char-grilled hanger steak or rib fillet served with baby spinach, fries, béarnaise & red wine. For a real French feast, dive into the duck confit, served with paris mash, green beans, beetroot marmalade, thyme jus or the souffle of gruyere cheese and caramelised onion, green leaf salad. No matter the size of your appetite, Saint Marthe will leave you utterly satisfied.
Pair your dishes with refreshing sips like the house-fermented lemonade or lemon mint ice tea. For something a little stronger, the extensive list of classic cocktails will leave you satiated, where the wine list will transport you to Bordeaux and beyond.
If sweets are your vice, the in-house patisserie is serving up desserts that could make the Eiffel Tower swoon. Crème brûlèe is served with a strawberry and mint salad and sablé biscuit, molten chocolate pudding oozes French royalty with vanilla mascarpone, raspberry coulis as well as lavender ice-cream with green grapes in honey & cognac, brandy snap.
Whether you’re a foodie, a Francophile or just someone in search of a stellar dining experience, grab your friends and even your furry companion for a meal to remember – just as Saint Marthe intended.
Where: 13 Main Street, Tamborine Mountain
When: 10:30am to 8pm Wednesday–Sunday
Website: saintmarthe.com.au
Instagram: @saint_marthe
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Carly King
