Step into a sanctuary of warmth and wellness at these Slow Stays across Australia and New Zealand, where the ancient tradition of sauna bathing is reimagined. The benefits of sauna are profound and varied, from detoxifying the body and soothing sore muscles to improving cardiovascular health and promoting deeper sleep. It’s a ritual that invites you to disconnect from the haste of the world and reconnect with the healing power of heat. Journey with us as we explore these havens of health, each offering a unique sauna experience that promises not just relaxation, but revitalisation of body and mind.
Still at Freycinet
Coles Bay, Tas
Like the Danish philosophy of hygge, Still at Freycinet invites you to get cosy while perching gracefully on the dunes of Sandpiper Beach. This eco Nordic-inspired stay features three generous bedrooms, each with its ensuite, and open-plan living areas that seamlessly blend warmth with minimalism.
But it’s the sauna experience that truly sets this retreat apart, offering panoramic views that elevate your relaxation. Use your included ‘sauna rituals’ pack and do the Nordic cycle between the warmth of the sauna and a cold outdoor shower. Top it all off with a soak in the deep charcoal bath and sit by the double-sided fireplace for a cosy evening with a book in hand. Still at Freycinet goes beyond sauna therapy, offering in-house chefs, massage therapists, and yoga teachers to enhance your wellbeing.
Dales Run
Kiama, NSW
Dales Run, just three minutes from the coastal town of Kiama, beckons with expansive views to the east and serene rural vistas to the west. This country retreat is designed with wellness in mind, offering modern features like an infrared sauna, yoga mats, virtual classes, and an outdoor bath and shower. For the ultimate relaxation, on-site massages can be arranged.
If you’re in the mood for adventure, Dales Run also caters to outdoor enthusiasts. Spend your days at the nearby beach, explore the countryside, or gather around the outdoor fire-pit for socialising. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity or excitement, Dales Run provides a haven for those embracing a slow and mindful lifestyle.
Nest Treehouses
Hakataramea Valley, NZ
Nest Treehouses transports you back to the enchanting memories of childhood treehouses, where the world faded away, leaving only stillness and the rhythmic beat of your heart. Perched high above a grove of radiata pines in the Hakataramea Valley, this luxurious minimalist cabin offers an escape from the daily grind.
Imagine relaxing in an outdoor cedar-stoked bath, gazing at a blanket of incandescent stars. Inside, a gas fire crackles, and you can savour local produce from a grazing platter. The serene sauna, with panoramic views just a short forest walk away, adds to the luxury. Optional in-house massages complete the wellness experience.
Just Down the Road
Branxholm, Tas
Just Down the Road offers a rustic charm that’s perfect for those looking to escape the daily grind. Located in the historic tin mining town of Branxholm, these three Tasmanian timber-clad cabins exude luxury in a lumberjack’s shack setting.
Each cabin features king-sized beds, fireplaces, outdoor baths, vintage decor, and even a record player. Designed with mountain-biking couples in mind, they provide bike wash down space and secure storage for your mountain biking adventures.
The communal area with barbecues, firepit, and barrel sauna is perfect for laughter and Derby-adventure debriefs.
Stowaway Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Immerse yourself in the romance of Stowaway Kangaroo Island with an outdoor hot tub, a cosy cantilever window seat, and a double-sided wood-burning fireplace. Spread across an 80-hectare regeneratively farmed property, each of the four luxurious Stowaways ensures complete privacy.
In The Snug and The Hide, you can also indulge in the glass-fronted sauna with rejuvenating views. The retreat provides complimentary nibbles, sparkling wine, and a full chef’s kitchen. In-room spa services, gin-tasting experiences, and gourmet food hampers are also available, making it tempting to stay in and relish the slow life.
These exceptional Slow Stays with saunas in Australia and New Zealand redefine the art of relaxation and sustainable living.
Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or romance, these properties offer unique sauna experiences amidst breathtaking natural beauty, ensuring that your escape is not just a vacation but a transformational journey towards a more mindful and rejuvenated you.
