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Anyone who has dabbled in Australia’s east coast wellness scene has likely heard of Soak Bathhouse. With locations across New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, the popular spa sanctuaries have become a godsend for those seeking a bit of RnR. Now, the team behind Soak are taking things a step further in the Gold Coast hinterland, launching retreats involving breathwork, fire ceremonies and some serious soul-searching.
Niki and Alexis Dean, the couple behind Soak Bathhouse, have just bought EcoView Retreat – one of Australia’s most spectacular wellness destinations in the Tallebudgera Valley. About 25 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, the property has 15 eco cabins sleeping up to 30 guests, a panoramic pool overlooking the hinterland and Gold Coast skyline, infrared saunas, indoor and outdoor gyms, a yoga pavilion and private bushwalking trails. There's also an oversized fire pit for evenings spent around the flames.
But this isn't just a case of sunrise yoga followed by a smoothie. The Deans are planning six signature retreats, called Trip, Joy, Quest, Dream, Rise and Love – each with its own focus.
First up is Trip – Go Beyond Wellness Retreat, which brings together holotropic breathwork, meditation, music, movement, guided shamanic journeying and fire ceremonies. The idea is to explore consciousness and personal growth without drugs. It's certainly a more involved approach to switching off than putting your phone on silent and booking a massage.
Food is also part of the experience. Chef Darryn Bonhomme, who has worked in fine-dining kitchens across Australia and South Africa, will oversee the menus. He was previously executive chef at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, so he knows his way around a wellness kitchen.
“We believe the retreat industry is ready for its next evolution. People are no longer looking simply to escape for a weekend. They're searching for experiences that genuinely transform the way they think, feel, and live. That's what EcoView Retreat is being created to deliver,” Niki says.
EcoView’s first retreat kicks off in late November, with the property also available to hire for private group getaways and team retreats. Can we tag along?