Feeling a bit frazzled lately? Sometimes you just need to step away from it all and recharge. If you’re in Victoria and looking for a place to find some peace and quiet, there are some great spots designed just for women. These places offer a chance to relax, focus on yourself, and get back to feeling like you again. Let’s take a look at some of the top women’s mental health retreats Victoria has to offer in 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Victoria offers several retreats focused on women’s mental wellbeing, providing a much-needed escape.
- These retreats often include activities like yoga, meditation, and spa treatments to help you relax.
- Some places offer unique therapies, such as equine-assisted learning, for a different approach to healing.
- You can choose from short breaks to longer stays, depending on how much time you have to dedicate to yourself.
- The goal is to offer a supportive environment where you can focus on your mental and emotional health.
1. Peninsula Hot Springs
If you’re feeling a bit worn out and need a proper escape, Peninsula Hot Springs on the Mornington Peninsula is a top pick. It was actually Victoria’s first geothermal springs and day spa, and it’s still super popular for a good reason. They’ve got over 50 different ways to soak and relax, which is pretty amazing. You can try out the warm mineral pools, different saunas (both steamy and dry), a hydrotherapy pool, and even some Turkish and Moroccan hammams if you’re feeling adventurous.
The hilltop pool is a real standout, offering these incredible 360-degree views of the rolling farmland – it’s just a genuinely special spot to just sit and be. They’ve also added some cool new things over the years, like an Australian-first ice cave and a deep freeze chamber. It sounds intense, but apparently, it’s brilliant for you. It’s a place that really leans into the natural geothermal waters and aims to create a peaceful vibe for everyone who visits.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Geothermal mineral pools: The main event, with lovely warm, mineral-rich waters.
- Saunas and steam rooms: Including traditional saunas and hammams for a good cleanse.
- Hilltop Pool: Famous for its amazing views and calm atmosphere.
- Ice Cave and Deep Freeze Chamber: For those who want to try a cold therapy experience.
They’ve even added accommodation now, including these new Eco Lodges with private geothermal pools. Sounds like the ultimate treat if you want to extend your stay and really disconnect.
It’s a great place to focus on your well-being and recharge your batteries. You can find out more about their bathing experiences on their website.
2. Rest & Restore Retreat
Nestled amongst the towering Manna gums and Mountain Ash by the Yarra River in Warburton, Victoria, Rest & Restore Retreat is a nature-based sanctuary designed for genuine restoration. It’s a place to truly unplug, clear your head, and find some much-needed emotional peace. This retreat is all about resetting your nervous system and putting your wellbeing back at the top of your list.
They really get that everyone’s journey is different, so it’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of place. Instead, they focus on restorative practices that help balance your Autonomic Nervous System, which can get pretty taxed by stress. You know, those times when you feel physically run down, emotionally drained, or mentally foggy? That’s where they come in.
Here’s a bit about what makes their approach so effective:
- Evidence-Based Practices: They use proven methods to help your body switch into its ‘rest and digest’ mode.
- Skilled Practitioners: You’ll have access to a team of up to 15 empathetic and highly qualified therapists and mental health experts.
- Nourishing Food: Expect delicious, seasonal meals made from scratch by a nutritionist, designed to energise you.
- Digital Detox: A break from devices is encouraged to help you reconnect with yourself and your surroundings.
- Personalised Approach: You decide how much or how little you want to do, ensuring the experience is right for you.
The founders, Rob and Belinda, started Rest & Restore from their own experiences of caring for others while managing health conditions. They understand firsthand the need for a supportive space that caters to individual needs, and they’ve built a retreat that reflects that deep understanding and empathy.
If you’re feeling burnt out, anxious, disconnected, or just need a circuit breaker from the daily grind, Rest & Restore offers a unique chance to find that balance. It’s a perfect springboard towards a healthier, happier you, and you can explore other wellness retreats in Australia if you’re looking for more options.
3. Healing With Horses & Wellness Retreat
Sometimes, you just need a different kind of connection to find your centre, and that’s where the Healing With Horses & Wellness Retreat comes in. This place offers a really unique approach to personal growth, using horses to help you work through things. It’s not about riding them, but more about interacting and learning from their presence. It’s a chance to build trust and understand yourself better in a calm, natural setting.
The retreat blends these equine sessions with other wellness practices. You can expect daily yoga classes, meditation sessions, and workshops focused on healing and personal development. They also include things like massage and group activities, all designed to help you unwind and reconnect.
Here’s a peek at what a typical stay might involve:
- Equine Assisted Learning sessions
- Daily yoga and meditation
- Nourishing meals prepared on-site
- Relaxation massage
- Group excursions focused on horses
- Pre and post-retreat support resources
It sounds like a pretty thorough program for anyone looking for a bit of a reset. The reviews mention feeling safe and finding clarity, especially after big life changes. It’s definitely an interesting option if you’re open to exploring healing through animal connection. You can find out more about their 5-day healing program.
This kind of retreat is perfect for those who feel stuck or are dealing with emotional challenges. The gentle guidance and the unique bond formed with the horses can be incredibly therapeutic, offering a path to emotional release and a renewed sense of self-worth.
4. Sugar Beach Ranch
If you’re after something a bit different, Sugar Beach Ranch offers women-only retreats that really lean into the connection between us and horses. It’s set on a pretty big property, about 60 acres, and the idea is to get away from it all for a few days, totally unplugged, with these amazing animals around. It’s not just about riding, though. They mix in yoga, meditation, and even sound healing, so it’s a bit of everything to help you feel good.
They’ve got private chefs making healthy food, and apparently, their probiotic ice cream is a must-try. Sounds pretty nice, right?
The whole point here is to tap into the healing power of working with horses. It’s more than just a quick getaway; it’s a chance to find some calm inside yourself and maybe learn a bit about who you are by spending time with them. It’s a more down-to-earth way to de-stress compared to a typical spa, and maybe even more impactful.
Here’s a taste of what you might find:
- Three-day women-only retreats
- Focus on equine wellness and connection
- Includes yoga, meditation, and sound healing
- Healthy meals prepared by a private chef
- Set on a 60-acre property, encouraging you to disconnect
5. Injidup Spa Retreat
If you’re after a bit of quiet by the coast, Injidup Spa Retreat, down near the Margaret River wine region, is a pretty sweet spot. It’s right on a quiet beach, which is a nice change of pace. They’ve really set it up for people who want to just chill out, whether you’re going solo or with a partner. You can get stuck into a classic Swedish massage or give your skin some love with a facial. They also have an infrared sauna, which is a good way to warm up and relax, especially after a day exploring.
The villas here are strictly for adults and each comes with its own private plunge pool and fantastic views of the ocean.
Here’s a bit of what you can expect:
- Classic Swedish-style massages
- Hydrating facials
- Infrared sauna access
- Adults-only villas with private plunge pools
This place feels both a bit fancy and really calming. It’s designed to help you switch off and just be.
They also have packages that include things like wellness consultations and various Balinese-inspired treatments. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a luxurious way to de-stress. You might even find yourself wanting to book a longer stay, perhaps around the time of events like HER Community – a Sundowner for Mental Health Week if you’re in the area.
6. Harmony Hill Health Retreat
Harmony Hill Health Retreat, tucked away in Tasmania’s quiet southern mountains, is all about giving you a proper reset. They really focus on healing and taking the stress right out of your life. You get your own private villa, which is nice, and they serve up delicious vegan meals. Plus, there are daily meditation sessions to help you find some calm.
What sets Harmony Hill apart is the deeply personal approach. They only host a maximum of three guests each week. This means you get a lot of individual attention, which is pretty special when you’re trying to work through things or just need some dedicated time for yourself. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a really restorative escape.
They offer stays of three, five, or six nights. This gives you enough time to properly unwind and really benefit from their unique wellness methods. It might take a bit of effort to get there, but honestly, the peace and quiet you find makes the trip totally worth it. If you’re after a wellness journey that’s tailored just for you, this place is definitely worth looking into.
Here’s a look at what you might experience:
- Private villa accommodation
- Delicious vegan meals and afternoon tea
- Daily meditation sessions
- Nature-based therapies like bushwalks and forest bathing
- Personalised healing sessions (Ayurveda, sound healing, quantum healing)
- Organic facials and body detox treatments
- Development of a Self Care Toolkit with psychologist support
The retreat focuses on providing a tranquil and private experience, making it ideal for de-stressing and reconnecting with yourself. It’s a place designed for deep restoration and personal growth.
7. Ritual Nordic Spa
If you’re after a serious chill-out session, Ritual Nordic Spa is definitely worth a look. It’s not your typical day spa; they’ve really leaned into that whole Nordic bathing experience, which is all about hot, cold, and rest. The idea is to cycle through these elements to really get your body and mind feeling refreshed.
They’ve got a few different zones to explore:
- Sauna: Think traditional Finnish saunas, perfect for a good sweat.
- Steam Room: A bit more humid, great for clearing the airways.
- Cold Plunge: For the brave! A quick dip in icy water to wake you right up.
- Relaxation Areas: Plenty of comfy spots to just sit back and do nothing.
It’s a pretty straightforward setup, but that’s kind of the point. You can spend as much or as little time in each area as you like, just going with the flow. It’s a good option if you want a focused experience without too many bells and whistles. They also have some lovely spa therapy options if you want to add a bit more pampering to your visit.
8. Moon Medicine
Moon Medicine isn’t your typical spa day; it’s more of a deep dive into reconnecting with yourself, especially if you’re feeling a bit frazzled. They focus on a holistic approach, blending gentle practices with a real emphasis on nature and quiet reflection. Think of it as a chance to hit the pause button and actually hear yourself think again.
Their schedule is pretty thoughtfully put together, aiming to ease you into relaxation rather than throwing a bunch of activities at you. Mornings often start with a gentle wake-up call, followed by some movement, maybe a walk in nature, and then a nourishing breakfast. The core of the day usually involves workshops or sessions designed to give you practical tools for wellbeing – things like learning about mindfulness or simple self-care techniques. Afternoons are for resting, journaling, or just enjoying the quiet, with more restorative sessions later in the day.
Here’s a peek at what a day might look like:
- Morning Rituals: Gentle wake-up, nature walks, meditation or Qi Gong.
- Midday Nourishment: Healthy meals followed by dedicated quiet time for reflection or rest.
- Afternoon Activities: Workshops on wellbeing tools, mindful movement, or restorative yoga.
- Evening Wind-Down: Sound baths, guided relaxation, and preparation for a peaceful night’s sleep.
The whole vibe here is about slowing down and letting go of the usual pressures. It’s about creating space for your mind and body to recover, without any pressure to perform or be ‘on’. They really encourage you to listen to what you need each day, whether that’s joining a session or simply finding a quiet spot to read.
They often suggest a 5-night stay, which seems about right for really getting into the rhythm and letting the benefits sink in. It’s for those times when you feel completely drained, like your support system is a bit shaky, or you’re just recovering from a big life event and need a proper break to reset. It’s less about a quick fix and more about building a foundation for lasting calm.
9. MA Wellness And Yoga
MA Wellness And Yoga is a spot that really focuses on bringing together mind and body practices. It’s not just about a quick fix; they aim to help you build sustainable habits for better mental well-being. Think of it as a place to learn tools you can actually use when you get back to your everyday life.
They offer a few different ways to get involved, depending on what you’re looking for:
- Yoga Sessions: From gentle flow to more invigorating styles, there’s something for most levels. They really encourage you to listen to your body.
- Mindfulness Workshops: These sessions are designed to help you quiet the mental chatter and be more present. It’s about learning to manage stress in a practical way.
- Personalised Wellness Plans: If you want something tailored, they can work with you to create a plan that fits your specific needs and goals.
It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to check in with yourself. Places like MA Wellness And Yoga remind us that taking time out to focus on our mental health isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. They provide a supportive environment to do just that.
The whole idea is to create a sense of calm and balance that you can take with you. They believe that by integrating movement and mindful practices, you can significantly improve your overall outlook and resilience. It’s a gentle approach to self-care that feels genuinely restorative.
10. HAVN Saunas
If you’re looking for a place to really just switch off and soak in some serious relaxation, HAVN Saunas might be your go-to. It’s a bit different from the usual spa vibe, focusing more on the therapeutic benefits of heat and cold. Think of it as a modern take on ancient wellness practices, right here in Victoria.
They’ve got a few different sauna options, including infrared, which is supposed to be great for getting deep into your muscles and helping you detox. After you’ve had a good sweat, they encourage you to try their cold plunge pools. It sounds intense, I know, but apparently, the contrast is amazing for your circulation and can leave you feeling super energised. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re up for a challenge, it’s a pretty unique experience.
The whole idea behind HAVN is to give your body a bit of a reset. It’s about using natural elements like heat and cold to help you feel better, both physically and mentally. It’s a simple concept, but when you’re there, it really works.
They also offer some other treatments, like massages, which are pretty standard but always a nice addition. It’s a good spot if you want a shorter, more focused wellness session rather than a full-blown multi-day retreat. You can just pop in for a few hours and come out feeling like a new person. Definitely worth checking out if you need a quick escape.
Your Sanctuary Awaits
So, that’s a wrap on some of the top spots in Victoria for women looking to find a bit of peace in 2025. It’s easy to get caught up in the everyday hustle, isn’t it? But taking time out for yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s pretty much a necessity. Think of it as topping up your own tank so you can keep going. Whether you’re after a quick weekend escape or a longer break to really reset, these retreats give you that chance. Hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point to find your own little slice of calm. You deserve it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of things can I do at these retreats?
You can expect a bunch of relaxing and healing activities! Many places offer things like yoga to help you stretch and breathe, meditation to calm your mind, and spa treatments like massages and facials to make you feel pampered. Some retreats even have unique activities like working with horses or using hot springs and saunas to help you unwind.
Do I have to go alone?
Not at all! While some retreats are perfect for a solo journey where you can focus on yourself, others are great for going with a friend or partner. The main idea is to find a space where you feel comfortable and supported, whether that’s by yourself or with someone else.
How long do these retreats usually last?
The length can vary a lot. Some places offer short getaways, like a weekend or a few days, which are great for a quick refresh. Others offer longer stays, maybe three, five, or even six nights, if you need more time to really disconnect and heal.
What if I have special dietary needs?
Most retreats focus on healthy eating. They often provide delicious meals made from fresh ingredients. If you have specific dietary needs, like being vegetarian, vegan, or having allergies, it’s always best to let the retreat know when you book. They’re usually happy to accommodate.
Are these retreats expensive?
The cost can differ depending on the retreat, how long you stay, and what’s included. Some might be a bit of a splurge, while others can be more affordable. It’s a good idea to look at what’s offered for the price, like accommodation, meals, and activities, to see if it’s the right fit for your budget.
Why are these retreats good for women’s mental health?
These retreats are designed to give women a safe and supportive place to take a break from everyday stress. They focus on self-care, relaxation, and learning ways to cope with challenges. By offering a peaceful environment and special activities, they help women recharge their batteries and feel better mentally and emotionally.
