Retreat to the Shoalhaven
Unforgettable getaways on the NSW South Coast
There’s nothing quite like a retreat for refilling an empty cup. The Shoalhaven region, a jewel in NSW’s South Coast, is a collection of small towns each with something unique to offer. Whether you are seeking an ‘I don’t want to think about a single detail’ retreat escape with a full itinerary or a ‘choose your own adventure’ getaway, here’s our pick of the places to feel rejuvenated in the Shoalhaven.
Stand Tall Retreats
Founder Amy Manton started Stand Tall Retreats to give women of all ages the space and time to nurture their whole selves. Featuring inspiring women who share their unique skills and expertise, the curated programs help you to fill your metaphorical toolbox so you can thrive emotionally, mentally and physically when you return to your everyday life. While every detail has been carefully thought out, you can choose to join the planned itinerary or take time to rest depending on what feels more restorative for you. Can’t manage a multi-day retreat? Stand Tall’s Day Retreats are the perfect circuit breaker for a busy schedule. Experience a rejuvenating day of self-care, movement and nourishment for the body, mind and soul!
Om Sweet Om
A sweet little yoga studio in Milton, Om Sweet Om facilitates revitalising weekend yoga retreats at the eco luxe Heartspace Retreat centre in Yass valley, as well as day retreats in Milton. Move through various thoughtfully planned offerings of vinyasa and yin yoga, journalling and yogic philosophy workshops. Feast on organic vegetarian meals, sink into a guided yoga nidra with an essential oil temple and head massage, and relax with the sounds of crystal singing bowls. You’ll leave with a heart overflowing with gratitude and an abundance of energy!
"Om Sweet Om in Milton facilitates revitalising day and weekend yoga retreats"
Eqwine Escapes
If exploring the region’s dreamy landscape and incredible produce from horseback is more your speed, you can’t go past Eqwine Escapes. Choose from either a 2-night or 5-night experience to spend your days cantering down golden sandy beaches and meandering through lush farmland and rugged mountains, stopping at award-winning cellar doors along the way. The itinerary promises to squeeze every drop of goodness out of the South Coast! This retreat is best suited to intermediate and advanced riders so if you’re just discovering your horse legs, this might not be for you.
Coastal Forage
Want to be completely nourished by locally sourced food in an incredible location? Experience Nature hosts a unique 10-course lunch in the beautiful Jervis Bay, which has some of the whitest sand on the planet.
Positioned over 8km of stunning NSW beach and trails along the Jervis Bay coastline, Coastal Forage is a culinary showcase of local food, wine and produce from Shoalhaven. Held over two days, guests will spend 2-3 hours meandering between 10 food stations and feeling the sand between their toes. This is the ultimate way to indulge in a 10-course tasting lunch while meeting local chefs, producers and makers, learning about the flora and fauna of the marine environment of Jervis Bay.
"At Paperbark Camp, you’ll stay in an African safari inspired canvas tent set amongst magical eucalyptus and paperbark trees."
Paperbark Camp
This peaceful bush retreat is perfect for a ‘choose your own adventure’ getaway. Paperbark Camp is ideally located in Jervis Bay, and you’ll stay in an African safari inspired canvas tent set amongst magical eucalyptus and paperbark trees. Let the tranquil sounds of the bush lull you into a state of deep relaxation over as many nights as you feel you need. You may choose to stay close to home – reading a book on your deck’s daybed, ordering an in-tent massage or soaking in the freestanding tub from your open air ensuite in between siestas. Or you may use the tranquil property as a base to explore the wonders of Jervis Bay – wandering the award-winning national parks, taking a whale watching cruise and immersing yourself in the turquoise waters at local beaches. However you choose to spend your time, a stay at Paperbark Camp is sure to be entirely unforgettable and wholeheartedly uplifting.
Looking for even more amazing experiences on the NSW South Coast? You might like this story – A Shoalhaven wellness trail.