The ultimate reset for mind and body

WORDS MEGAN ARKINSTALL

THE HUNTER VALLEY’S PREMIER WELLNESS RETREAT HAS HAD A RECENT RESET. ELYSIA WELLNESS RETREAT UNDERWENT AN EXTENSIVE AND THOUGHTFUL REVAMP IN 2021 WITH NEW-LOOK VILLAS AND AN IMPRESSIVE PROGRAM THAT IS DESIGNED TO UNWIND, NOURISH AND REJUVENATE ITS GUESTS.

Set amongst the undulating hills of Pokolbin wine country, Elysia Wellness Retreat has long been the Hunter Valley’s premier stay for those seeking respite from the daily grind. The exclusive property – formerly the Golden Door Retreat – underwent a refurbishment last year, transforming the villas into calming sanctuaries. Resplendent in rich, earthy tones and simple but plush furnishings, the design keeps in mind the impact of physical environment on mental wellbeing.

The retreat experience has also been overhauled: its tailored personal programs now incorporate unique and targeted spa treatments, wellness consultations, group classes and seminars on a range of topics including mental health, happiness and wellbeing, relationships, and healing. By taking part in the program, guests will give their bodies a break from red meat, alcohol, caffeine, sugar and digital devices, disconnecting from everyday stresses and distractions.

The daily program begins at 6:30 am and finishes after dinner at 7 pm, giving both early birds and night owls the opportunity to make the most of their stay at Elysia. Guests have the flexibility

to choose what they do with their day – that could be sunrise tai chi atop Meditation Hill, followed by a swim in the indoor heated pool, a relaxing afternoon in the day spa, finishing with a seminar about the art of mindfulness or nutrition. Or it could be the simple pleasure of doing nothing at all.

The retreat’s award-winning day spa is a sanctuary within a sanctuary. It has a menu that features classic treatments such as a Rejuvenation Facial or a Hawaiian Kahuna Massage, as well as holistic treatments, including Energy Healing and Chakra Clearing or Breathing and Qi Gong.

Clinical Services Manager Melissa Ingram is responsible for the health and wellbeing of all staff and guests. She explains that Elysia is the perfect place for anyone that believes they need a change in their life, such as those who need to build healthy habits, anyone recovering from grief, or people who simply need to break away from the busyness of life, whether that be for a weekend or a week.

‘Our focus is on nurturing our guests and ensuring they are motivated and inspired to go home and do things differently.