RACV Royal Pines Resort unveils its new look…and it’s a (RAC)VIBE!
RACV Royal Pines Resort unveils its new look…and it’s a (RAC)VIBE!
Have you stayed at RACV Royal Pines Resort? Even if you have, you haven’t.
If that sounds entirely confusing, it does, but all will make sense once we spill the tea on this local legend’s luxe new look.
Synonymous with five star feels, authentic culinary experiences, and a championship golf course, RACV Royal Pines Resort was already an A-lister. But, to keep up with changing trends and maintain its position as one of our city’s finest, a chic makeover was in order, and this just speaks to us on SO many levels #CanRelate #CanWeHaveOneToo.
Recently undergoing some seriously sophisticated sprucing that would make any discerning resort-goer’s heart go #PadamPadam, RACV Royal Pines Resort 2.0 has arrived! Yes friends, we’re talking a refined refurb so on point, we’re dropping everything and booking a bougie staycay stat!
So, what’s changed? More like what hasn’t changed and no, we’re not trying to confuse you again. We’re talking lifts, lobbies, corridors, doors, room interiors, and holy glow-up Batman – this is legit The Full Monty. Inside each luxurious room and suite you’ll find a timelessly elegant and meticulous remodel, capturing the true essence of coastal glamour. Still paying homage to the resort’s rich heritage, it seamlessly blends legacy with on-trend colours, furnishings, and overall design. Boom!
It feels like the outside has been brought inside, and not in a ‘oops, I have mud on my shoes’ kinda way, but rather a perfectly conceptualized, styled, and beautifully executed mirroring of the resort grounds. And, being the pin-up for breathtaking landscape design with more decadent greenery than you can poke a perfectly pruned palm frond at (try saying that a few times), this was a power move from the resort’s interiors team.
The new colour palette is goals, featuring wood, brass, and stone finishes, paired with soothing earthy tones; sandy hues, cloudy greens and of course, ‘dem fresh foliage greens. Contrasted with crisp whites, the choice of hues is equal parts relaxing and Pinterest-board worthy #HomeRenoInspo.
The spacious King and Twin Rooms, Spa and Executive Rooms feel softer and more subdued, creating an ambiance of tranquility. Inviting us to retreat into the sanctuary of our room while feeling a connection to the natural world, our reply is a unanimous HECK YES. This is precisely what we want from a high calibre resort in 2023, signaling a new era for this GC institution.
With no less than seven exclusive eats and sips venue to experience, a 27-hole golf course, kids’ waterpark, and award-winning event venues, it’s an eleven-outta-ten. And don’t even get us started on OneSpa, the crème de la crème of day spas and cherry on top.
Come see for yourself how the gold standard of hospitality has been redefined with this remarkable transformation. To find out more and book your stay, go here.
As an extra special bonus RACV Royal Pines have a launch staycation $249* package, which includes accommodation, complimentary upgrade to a Superior room*, daily breakfast and late checkout.
Valid for stays now until 22 December, 2023.
Hurry, offer ends 31 August, 2023.
Book your staycation package here.
When: Now!
Where: Ross Street, Benowa
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT.
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
Why you need to treat yourself to a luxurious One Spa experience.
Ever had one of those days where you just CANNOT anymore? Same. But you can also never quite put your finger on what it will take to bring you back to life? Same, times two.
Well, we went in search of the answer and you may not be surprised to hear that it is complete and utter pampering at the hands of someone who knows exactly what pampering means.
And we also know just where to get it. You’re welcome.
One Spa at RACV Royal Pines in Benowa is the answer and there aren’t enough words to describe the experience of the pampering you’ll receive there but here we are, giving it a good old fashioned try.
One Spa is exclusively offering clients on the Gold Coast the LaGaia UNEDITED range of luxury skincare products and treatments.
LaGaia’s targeted skin treatments, wellness and relaxation services promote powerful health and skin results.
The stunningly decked out space has amassed a following of people who now truly understand the definition of luxury spa experiences.
Upon entering, you’ll notice how calm and quiet it is, especially compared to the chaotic outside world you will quite soon forget. It’s a special kind of magic, all welcoming and cosy and heavenly.
Similar to the extremely fluffy robe and slippers you’ll be handed to pop on while you sit for a minute in the relaxation room overlooking the water and complete with resident ducks and the sounds of bubbling water. Here you may sip on lemon and ginger tea and read health and wellbeing books like the relaxed, stress-free little poppet you are soon to be.
The new One Spa menu, co-designed with LaGaia, features local and international inspired rituals.
We opted for the Knowing Touch massage which, by the way, was the best massage we’ve ever experienced all perfect pressure and taking place in a dark room with no talking. This unique Akwaterra facial and body massage incorporates both warmed and chilled ceramics to relax the mind and ease discomfort from tight, sore muscles.
BLISS.
Beforehand though, we took part in a 30-minute steamroom situation, that is optional but should absolutely be taken up. Here you may wash your hair, exfoliate your body, make steamy mist fall from the ceiling, have a cold shower or simply just sit and let yourself be steamed.
It is both the perfect pre-treatment time and 30 minutes alone doing nothing at all which is a godsend in itself.
So obviously we HIGHLY recommend a massage at One Spa but of course, the exceptional team also offer ten-star facials, body, hand and foot therapies and grooming services.
Their piece de résistance though are water therapies consisting of everything from the simple (but life-changing) steam shower to a private outdoor Jacuzzi experience, Hydrotherapy baths, Massage Jet showers and Vichy showers. All of which are the ultimate in indulgence.
If you’d like to extend your time there and try a few different therapies tied up into one sweet little package that is the very best idea you’ve ever had.
Another highlight of the new menu is the use of Gua Sha for face and body. This practice adapts the ancient Taoist practice for moderate to deep body massage, and a luminating Gua Sha facial technique for lymphatic wellness benefits.
At the end, you’ll get more time in the relaxation room plus a few extra treats and then you can be on your merry way, walking on clouds and oblivious to exactly what it was that bothered you at any point in your life before this one.
We cannot overstate the absolutely incredible time that was had during our experience at One Spa. It was, quite simply, something we’ll never forget.
Go see for yourself.
LOCATION: RACV Royal Pines, Ross Street, Benowa
Words by Kirra Smith
