Mineral soaking in New South Wales
Nestled deep in the limestone valley within Kosciuszko National Park, about six hours drive from Sydney, you’ll find Yarrangobilly Caves thermal pool, a 20-metre natural “hot tub” surrounded by forest. Thanks to a nearby spring, the water is a balmy 27°C year-round, offering mineral-rich benefits, including muscle relaxation, improved circulation and a great night’s sleep.
It’s also suited to families, with a children’s pool and nearby camping facilities so you can slow down and unplug from the stress of everyday life. But the best part? The pools are free, with just a $4 fee for vehicles entering the park. Explore the surrounding trails or linger a little longer to enjoy a picnic among the trees.
Camping not your thing? Caves House nearby offers rooms from $129 a night. “Australia is one of the best places in the world for a wellness break that doesn’t cost a lot,” says Katherine Droga, founder of Well Traveller. “Because so much of what restores us here is completely free – nature.”
A quiet break in Tasmania
The turquoise waters and powdery sand of Wineglass Bay are the star features of Freycinet National Park, located two and a half hours from both Hobart and Launceston. Set up camp at Nick’s Nook, an off-grid, dog-friendly, private camping site with a fire pit and plenty of space for $37 a night.
To get your endorphins going, hike the 1.3 kilometre trail to the Wineglass Bay lookout. Walking in nature reduces activity in the parts of the brain associated with rumination – that loop of anxious thinking that follows us into the weekend.
And don’t discount the regenerative effects of that glorious view, either. Looking at bodies of water has been shown to have a profound calming effect on the brain, which is known as “blue mind,”. “I encourage people to think of places where you can slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect – places where nature does the heavy lifting,” says Droga. After all, she adds, “nature can help lower blood pressure and stress levels and improve mood.”
