Rediscover your spa-rkle at Gwinganna with 15% off winter retreats!
Rediscover your spa-rkle at Gwinganna with 15% off winter retreats!
If your winter wellness plan so far involves bingeing couch time, eating your bodyweight in carbs, and wearing your two fave sets of Peter Alexander PJs on repeat – we feel you. But may we suggest an entirely different approach, one which will completely recharge you, garnished with a hearty sprinkling of luxury….and a pocket-pleasing offer to boot? One that offers a renewed sense of balance, steamy saunas instead of steamy noodles, and a digital detox that doesn’t involve simply dropping your phone between the couch cushions.
We’re talking about Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, a spa-tacular global award-winning and ecotourism certified wellness retreat tucked away in the stunning Gold Coast hinterland. Plus, hot off the press, this one-of-a-kind dreamy destination has just dialled things up a notch with a winter special that’ll warm your heart faster than a turmeric latte.
The wellness warriors at Gwinganna are offering 15% off* all retreats from 1 June to 31 August so you can cosy up in nature and immerse yourself in literal heaven, without blowing the budget. Think profound relaxation, healing spa therapies, nature walks, organic cuisine, enlightening wellness seminars, nourishing wellness rituals, and gentle movement classes that’ll get your blood pumping without requiring Lycra confidence.
You can connect with caring experts, learn the art of resilience in our fast-paced modern world, and best of all, you can decide how much or how little you’d like to engage in. Whether you’re in the market for a short-and-sweet weekend recharge or a full seven-day mind-body reboot, this is your chance to do something that’s genuinely good for your soul (and your immune system).
If you’re not already sold (we are!), here’s a little extra incentive to ‘glow’ get yourself checked in. If you book a 5 or 7-night retreat, you can choose one of three amazing bonuses. You can opt for a $200 spa credit, a $250 Gwinganna gift pack with a selection of lush top-shelf self-care products, or a $300 gift card to treat a friend because sharing and caring is the ultimate friendship flex.
This is more than a holiday – it’s a tune-up, a time-out, and a total reset for your nervous system. Gwinganna’s retreats offer a blend of movement, stillness, education, nutrition, and nature – all the things we promise ourselves we’ll make time for but #LifeHappens and our wonderful wellness plans fall by the wayside. Well folks, in the wise words of Moloko, the time is now (millennials, we see you).
All you need to do is book by 30 June, use the code WINTER15 when checking out online, or give one of Gwinganna’s lovely Retreat Advisors a call on 1800 219 272. A few T&Cs apply (you’ll need to book an Orchard or Villa room and some specialty retreats are excluded), but the end result is the same – a zen-sational sense of wellness that’ll leave you soothed, invigorated, and channelling your inner Deepak Chopra.
So go on, swap your winter blues for wellness greens and check yourself in instead of checking emails. Book your life-changing escape now and give your future self something to namaste about. You glow girl (or guy)!!!
Click here to book and start your glow-up getaway now.
Offer ends 30 June. New bookings only. Conditions apply.
Where: 192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley
When: Monday – Sunday. Offer ends 30 June 2025
Words by Bianca Trathen
STORY SPONSORED BY GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT
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
The biggest, the best and the boujee.
We’re not out of touch, we know these Airbnbs are as grand as they get. But what’s life without a little indulgence from time to time? Sometimes, a moment or special occasion just calls for it. Maybe the ultimate family getaway, a glamorous weekend with friends or a special treat for you and your other half (with lots of bedrooms to choose from). Feel free to take your pick blindfolded, as any of these captivating Airbnbs will make for the perfect backdrop.
Here are six of our fave extravagant Gold Coast Airbnb abodes.
Luxury Living on Mermaid Beach
If a magazine-worthy coastal abode makes you swoon, then call off the search – this one’s for you. Lovingly restored to luxe beach perfection, this classic beach bungalow is a real-life oasis. It features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, and is located fittingly along the iconic Hedges Avenue. What’s its secret sauce you ask? This (not so) little beauty is built right on the edge of the sand, with direct private access to the beach. The simple and soothing colour pallet of whites, neutral tones, caramel leathers and white linen enhance the beach aesthetic, but with an air of refinement and coastal sophistication. The use of natural oak flooring works in tastefully with the neutral colour scheme, and the limestone tiles give just the right amount of wow factor. Offering the crème de la crème of alfresco living, with the indoors transitioning seamlessly to the outdoors, you can even pop upstairs to the private viewing deck for a sneaky sunset Aperol Spritz.
Where: Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast
Hang up your Hat at Hillview Stables
If watching a few too many episodes of Yellowstone has made you consider relocating to Wyoming, grab your buckskin cowboy hat and come with us. Welcome to Hillview Stables, the rustic country escape you’ve been craving, without the 23 hour plane ride. Tucked away in the Currumbin Valley, the newly restored stables sit upon a historic dairy farm overlooking a majestic mountain range. Their barn doors are open, ready for your arrival. The unique collection of luxury abodes, known as the ‘Stables’, is complete with smokey leather lounges, exposed beans, a 4 sided glass fireplace and country mountain views that ensure an authentic Wild West experience. When evening comes, put that woodfire pizza oven to work before relaxing by the outdoor fire pit under the stars. Perhaps a whiskey on the rocks? It would only be fitting.
Where: Currumbin Valley, Gold Coast
Rivermead Estate
This mega-magnificent Rivermead Estate is worthy of an airbnb-ovation, nestled in the mountains, among 55 acres of pristine hinterland. Side note and fun fact: George Clooney stayed here while filming 2022 rom-com Ticket to Paradise! Strolling in any direction will lead to adventure as you stumble upon cascading rock pools, secluded forests, and winding streams. Back at the house, enjoy an alfresco breakfast on the white-washed wrap-around veranda before stretching out on a sun-lounger by the pool or treat yourself to a spa treatment or sauna at the onsite spa facilities. If you seek a more energised pursuit, find their onsite tennis court and modern equine facilities. If all else fails, just book a helicopter tour of the nearby mountains and lakes.
Where: Tamborine Mountain/Gold Coast Hinterland
A Luxury Retreat on Your Own Mountain
If you ever wonder how the other half lives- we’re with you- and it’s our lucky stay! The luxe life awaits you behind this gated, 20-acre estate, hidden on a lush mountain just minutes from Dreamworld. The 360 panoramic views are inescapable, with the opportunity to lose your breath at every corner of this stunning home. Will it be a dive in the three-sided infinity edge pool, a hit on the full-sized tennis court, a recline in the 8-seater hot tub or night unleashing your inner chef in their gourmet kitchen? You’ll be stumped for choice, but you have the entire place to yourself, so consider this Airbnb your oyster.
Where: Upper Coomera, Gold Coast
Absolute Beachfront House in Palm Beach
Casa Sol is, indeed, absolute beachfront. Just take a few big steps from the living room, and you’ll be toes in the sand. This beautifully renovated coastal home is situated on Gold Coast’s most affluent Jeffersons Lane and in front of one of the best beaches in the world. With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this adobe is the ideal family holiday or a fabulous friendcation! Not just close to the beach but also just moments from a line-up of cafes and restaurants to satisfy whatever your craving.
Where: Palm Beach, Gold Coast
Hillside Carool; a Tuscan-Style Farm Stay
We may be stretching the truth a little by including this on a Gold Coast list, but it’s only a short drive down the road and is too gorgeous skip over. If a Tuscan vineyard homestay sounds sweet, like grapes from a vine, then Hillside Carool is for you. What once was a winery has since been refurbished, where beautiful rows of grape vines remain. It’s as though this homestead was curated to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. The property, set upon rolling green hills, boasts a palm tree-lined lap pool, two outdoor fireplaces, and an old cellar door, making this a perfect cosy winter or stunning summer escape. Hire long tables for a picturesque lunch on the 30 m lawn, or pour a glass of wine to enjoy on the fairy-light-lit patio.
Where: Carool, NSW
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Experience the Gold Coast's classic cool.
We all see it, the surge of sleek apartment buildings and towering high-rises staking their claim on Gold Coast’s coveted coastline. While we’re all for fresh faces and new places in our beloved beach town, we can’t help but hold a special place in our hearts for Gold Coast’s gems with character.
Each of these boutique accommodations offers a distinct blend of retro flair and modern comfort, perfect for those looking to soak up the classic cool vibes of this iconic destination.
But don’t just take our word for it – experience the magic for yourself! There’s a nostalgic getaway waiting for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to relive the past while enjoying the comforts of today!
The Cheshire Cat Motel
Catch just a sight of this boutique hotel; it will be enough to broaden your grin and make your tale quiver. What was old is once again new at this boutique hotel, refurbished for our delight. The six-room motel is like a mid-century memento, a nostalgic transport back in time, even just for a night. With a careful curation of genuine era furnishings and colour tones- tangerine oranges, teal blues and pistachio greens- this place feels more like a cosy museum than a hotel. Choose between the impressive Queen Room or Bungalow- visit either you like: they’re both mad! You can find the motel perched on the energised Palm Beach strip, yet hidden in plain sight. Not to worry! Look out for the tall neon sign and cacti-studded wall, and you will be on your way. Grab your Walkman, ladies; we’re headed to the pool deck. We’ll hit The Collective later.
Where: 1005 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
The Pink Hotel
You wouldn’t guess it, but this hotel is pink. Yep! Completely pink (with some white for contrast). We’re not exaggerating (at all) when we say it’s your childhood Barbie Dreamhouse- life-size edition. By all means eccentric, this hotel intrigues and excites. It’s fun, funky, and, surprisingly, a rich piece of Gold Coast history. Simply put, it’s impossible not to have a good time at this hotel. Between the rooftop bar (also the perfect place to watch the spectacular sunset), epic rooms, onsite food delivery (hello, burgers from Eddie’s Grub House) and endless surrounding activities, you will be entertained for your entire stay, and some. Just because we can never resist the siren call, we’ll be scoffing pizza at Franc Jrs.
Where: 171 Griffith St, Coolangatta
The Mysa Motel
Welcome to Palm Springs, California. Oops! Sorry, we meant The Mysa Motel. Gosh! Don’t they look alike? It’s no wonder we got confused. The Mysa Motel is a sustainable luxury motel in Palm Beach. Their modern-retro twist is a perfect blend of pastel palette and of-decade decor that conjures a feeling that could only be comparable to being gumball first into a Bubble O’ Bill while rollerblading. Whatever worries you had are long gone now- at the bottom of their outdoor magnesium pool, in fact. Their rooms are a delight, with options for each of your seven personalities. To flaunt a few, we have “Sky Blue’, she’s breezy. With two comfortable king-size beds and sky-blue walls, you’re in for a cool, calm and collected time. ‘The Merillo’- she loves to host. The two-bedroom double-story unit is lush but altogether paired back, to focus on simplicity and the sacred element of ‘space’. For nosh, Well Bread & Pastry is high on our list of recommendations, along with Balboa Italian– it’s buono.
Where: 1100 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Blue Heron Motel
Welcome to Blue Heron Motel; a stunning family-owned boutique hotel in Mermaid Beach’s heart. This understated stay provides a calm and quiet haven to escape the buzzing Gold Coast activity. With a recent spruce, the motel’s design reminds us of the golden days of the Gold Coast. Ahh, what a time! Overall, their bases are covered as both a sanctuary and a centre for activity and exploration. Take a plunge in their picturesque pool, or hire a bike to explore the famous Gold Coast oceanway. After all, you’re only a pedal away from local favourites and attractions, including Pacific Fair and Holliday Coffee.
Where: 2323 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
La Costa Motel
La Costa Motel is a slice of 60’s inspired paradise. A vintage-style vacation set in the southern Gold Coast suburb of Bilinga. Picture this; you’ve just pulled up in your Dodge Coronet Wagon, hard case luggage in the boot and polka dot togs in hand- ready for your family vacation. The exterior replicates the classic beach-side shack, with each ‘studio’ accommodating its own white picket fence. Behind it sits two vibrant patio chairs, a petite round table and a mini floral garden- the cutest garden we ever did see. Greet your neighbour’s next door before jumping on your cruiser bike en route to breaky! Delicious options await at Halycon Coffee House. As your day draws to a close, head back to your home away from home, pull up a deck chair and watch the sunset from your very own front yard. Well, it’s yours for a little while, anyway.
Where: 127 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga
Gold Coast Tree Houses
Retro might not be the right word for this remarkable bed and breakfast style accommodation, but it’s definitely unique. With self-contained cabins nestled amongst the trees…How about tree-ific? Choose from six unique and individually styled treehouses, and enjoy off-grid living at its finest. The luxurious eco-accommodation is surrounded by lush bushlands, providing the perfect setting for seeking solitude and connection alike. Stay in Treehouse One or Two to marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views from your bathtub! Suppose you can muster enough willpower to leave your new hideaway. In that case, we recommend trying Panchos Mexican, for a late lunch or dinner!
Where: Lot 1,123 Mount Nimmel Rd, Austinville
qtQT
Take things up a notch with the lavish boutique accommodation at qtQt. Designed for discerning creatures of comfort, their contemporary-style cabins are cosy by definition, hidden amongst a garden oasis. With luxurious local amenities and the option of curated experiences, it’s clear, qtQT doesn’t need lessons in laidback luxury. Unplug and unwind in a distraction-free zone. Whether you’re enjoying solo serenity or sharing space with a loved one, the options are endless. Enjoy barefoot indulgence in an outdoor oasis, free from the distraction of television. It’s all about comfort and connection. You’re in the centre of Surfers, steps away from the QT Gold Coast’s incredible restaurants and yet you feel a million miles away. It’s safe to say this hotel isn’t playing for a bronze medal.
Where: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
