JW Marriott x BodyLove present an exceptional Pilates getaway.
JW Marriott x BodyLove present an exceptional Pilates getaway.
Love the sound of a weekend of fitness combined with an indulgent 5-star getaway? Balance is a core principle of Pilates, so it’s only fitting we exercise that fundamental to the fullest! If you’re with us, you’ll love this news.
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa has just announced its first-ever Wellness Weekend with Bodylove Pilates. Creating the perfect harmony for both body and mind, it sounds abs-olutely fabulous. If you love low-impact, yet lively and effective workouts, we’ve found your perfect retreat.
Tell your local community class you’re taking the night off. We’re about to be pulsing to the count of Abi Ali Handley – a New York City-trained Pilates instructor and owner of Sydney’s premium Pilates studio, Bodylove Pilates. We’ve been informed her counts are accurate – they really do only last 10 seconds! Our abs are aching in anticipation, but it’s a challenge we’re here for.
Abi is renowned for establishing a thriving community at her Woollahra and Sydney CBD studios. Lucky for us, she’s bringing some of her signature energy to the Gold Coast, inviting wellness enthusiasts to experience a weekend of holistic health, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
The wellness weekend with Bodylove Pilates, hosted by JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, includes a luxurious two-night stay and three days of opulent health and wellness experiences. Between the indulgent personalised spa treatments and access to JW’s Spa award-winning sauna, steam room, and pool facilities, you’ll feel relaxed, recharged, and ready to conquer the matt.
Speaking of, the weekend’s main attraction is a world-class, comprehensive Pilates program led by Ali Handley herself. Rise to magical morning meditation sessions, and master Abi’s “Mindful Burn” method during her dynamic Pilates and breathwork classes.
And where there’s hard work, there must (by law) be good food. Thankfully, we can always count on JW Marriott to bring the goods, with a lavish food menu fit for a Pilates queen. The renowned Citrique restaurant ensures you are well nourished with a hatted, three-course dining experience by night and a boujee breakfast come morning.
Also, delight in an elegant High Tea by JW after a rejuvenating Spa by JW treatment. All this goodness has us shook to the core (literally).
By the end of this weekend, you will undoubtedly have found your rib-to-hip connection, maybe even your pelvic floor, and discovered a profound sense of calm and centeredness. Abi’s “more than just a workout” approach ensures you will leave feeling nourished in your mind, body, and soul, fully rejuvenated from the inside out. This is not just Pilates, it’s a holistic journey to wellness and renewal.
This three-day weekend escape is priced at $1,995 per person in a king guest room, or you can share the experience with a friend for $1,595 per person in a twin guest room. Click here to book your spot now.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: 23rd-25th August 2024
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY JW MARRIOTT GOLD COAST RESORT & SPA
Six courses of truffle magnificence at Citrique.
Nothing says lavish quite like the truffle. It’s the fancy fungi that unnerves and delights. Prepare thy palate because an exotic excursion awaits! We’re about to be treated to not one but six truffle-tasting plates! Yes, you heard correctly. Citrique, the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s resident dining darling, has collaborated with Lady Truffle (aka, the Queen of truffles) to welcome the unfledged and fluent alike to celebrate, experience and learn about this often-uncharted delicacy.
It’s excellent news for foodies, and the perfect excuse for those who are yet to see what all the truffle is about.
It’s not uncharted for Citrique but more a natural progression from their success featuring the delicacy on previous menus. This dip of the toes kindled their quest to deliver a dedicated culinary experience.
A chance to showcase truffles in both unexpected combinations and traditional pairings, and the perfect excuse for diehard foodies and those who are yet to discover what all the truffle is about.
The six-course degustation menu at Citrique is not just a menu, it’s a carefully curated culinary journey that unveils the gastronomical possibilities when the riches of the underground meet the treasures of the land and sea. To ensure a most authentic and considered menu, Citrique’s Executive Chef Paul Smart, a master of his craft, enlisted the expertise of truffle specialist and founder of Lady Truffle Fine Foods, Debbie Oliver.
On a mission of her own, educating chefs (and your regular foodies) on the care and use of truffles, empowering them to use the intriguing ingredient in their kitchens. With her intelligence, Smart formulated the new menu that showcases the diverse and unexpected ways truffles can be experienced.
While we often think of France when we hear truffle, Australia is one of the top truffle producers in the world. Citrique’s Spotlight menu exclusively features black truffles sourced from Australia’s truffle capital, Manjimup, Western Australia. You haven’t even been to the dinner yet and you’re already becoming an expert!
Like warm butter across toasted bread, our start is a smooth one with a Duck Pate with Truffle Brioche. Our journey through high-dining heaven continues with Seared Sea Scallops with Truffle Orzo and Shaved Fresh Truffle. If you are not already giddy with food delight, the Glazier 51 Toothfish with Truffle Cream Sauce and the Lamb Loin with Truffle Mousse will sure get you there. Forgive our childish conduct, but the edge of our seat has been kept very warm for dessert. Come on! Chocolate Truffle Hazelnut Financier with a Macae Truffle Cremeux hidden inside?!
Are they trying to put us in a dessert food coma from which we never awake? If so, we surrender…
Get ready to truffle-treat yourself! The six-course Producer Spotlight menu is available for $129 per person, (plus an additional $59 per person for the six-course wine pairing).
Diners who choose to experience Citrique’s a la carte menu, available Mondays to Thursdays, will also be able to enjoy shaved fresh truffle as an optional add-on to any dish on the menu for the duration of the Truffle Producer Spotlight menu. It’s going to be a truffle-tastic time you won’t want to miss! Click here for bookings and more information.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: Reservations available Monday to Thursday from 9th July until 12th September 2024.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY JW MARRIOTT GOLD COAST RESORT & SPA
Reset and nourish the senses at the luxurious Spa by JW.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that true relaxation doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment.
And nowhere has mastered the art of unwinding quite like JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s spa-rkling new and aptly named, ‘Spa by JW’. Launched last week, this beautifully designed sanctuary is the true embodiment of bliss, and we would expect nothing less from such leaders in luxury.
Complementing the hotel’s $35 million makeover, it’s the secret sauce securing this GC institution’s position as THE destination for all things sleek, sophisticated, and superior. Summonsing locals and visitors alike to enter an in-spa-rational world of tranquillity and unwind amongst the sounds of the hinterland, echoing birds and ocean shoreline, it’s a hard yes from us.
A design collab between the DBI design studio, the building’s OG architects, and high-end interior designers, it’s the Queen Bee of spas. With an effortless yet sophisticated urban aesthetic inspired by the lush surroundings, Spa by JW is a bespoke work of art. It oozes quintessential coastal Queensland beauty with natural materials, texture, lighting, and a chic neutral colour palette. Oh, and a special shout-out must go to the emphasis on curves because a) we’re obsessed, and b) we have them too.
Curated under the expert guidance of Spa by JW Manager, Stacey Leong, we’re talking tailored treatments in six treatment rooms, a signature couple’s room including relaxation lounge, ensuite stone bath and twin showers, traditional saunas, showers, tranquil pods, and an alfresco outdoor garden terrace. Centred around four distinctive benefits; calm, indulge, invigorate, and renew, our list of recommended treatments goes a little something like this….
Firstly, The Kaffir Lime and Ginger Salt Scrub is a must. Including an exfoliating massage made from locally sourced Bunda Ginger paired with Pink Murray River Salt to stimulate blood flow and assist with anti-inflammation, where have you been all our lives?
Next, The Chamomile and Lavender Soak promotes restful sleep and a balanced mind through an immersive chamomile and lavender bath soak experience. And let’s not forget The Native Clay Body Mask to brighten, nourish and refine the texture of your skin, and incite a deep sense of relaxation.
Now because the JW Marriott team don’t do anything by halves, the Spa by JW experience includes access to a locally inspired tea service, wine service, and thoughtfully crafted food menu courtesy of JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s Executive Chef extraordinaire, Paul Smart. While we’re talking bougie eats and sips, sign yourself up stat for the wellbeing high tea including lavender scones, cucumber, caviar & crème fraiche, smoked salmon tartine, sesame bark, citrus aioli, tomato and bocconcini tartine, macadamia chocolate brownie, blueberry cake, mango passion slice, chocolate dipped strawberries, native honey seed nut slice, and chocolate rose with hazelnut cream ($79 per person).
Need another excuse to indulge? Here’s one we prepared earlier… A hand selected Spa by JW Introductory Package is available until Monday 11th of September where you’ll be treated to a bespoke 30-minute aromatherapy massage and 30-minute discovery facial ($180 per person).
For more information and to book a treatment guaranteed to delight the soul and nourish the senses, go here.
Where: 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: Spa by JW is open from 9am – 6pm Monday to Saturday, & 10am – 5pm Sunday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY JW MARRIOTT GOLD COAST RESORT & SPA
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
