It seems that in all our over-evolved wisdom and engineering brilliance we humans have created a world filled with modern conveniences, time-saving devices and a vast array of ways in which to track each other down. All this is fine when you are running a busy company or you’ve lost your spouse in the CBD, but now and again we need to get away from it all. Now and again we need to retreat – and what better place to escape it all than a retreat in Byron Bay.
So once you’ve decided to sojourn to a Byron Bay retreat your next step is to work out the kind of Byron retreat you would like. The good news is that the word ‘retreat’ is merely a clever ‘get of jail free’ kind of word that gives you an excuse to be really selfish for a week or two and indulge either your passion or you fantasy without having to feel guilty or do the dishes.
That means that pretty much anything can be classed as a retreat, not just the hard work ones. Whether you are after a wellbeing retreat, detox retreat, yoga retreat, meditation retreat, surf retreat, couples retreat, sex retreat, therapy retreat or purely a Byron romantic getaway, Byron Bay is sure to provide for your every whim.
If your idea of a relaxing retreat is a getaway from the status quo, a break from the everyday or a chance to remember who you are, then Byron Bay is itself one big retreat. Locals often refer to the ‘Byron Bubble’ to explain the shift in feeling and consciousness that envelops the shire. As a haven for creative, alternative, artistic, intellectual and spiritual souls the sense you pick up when holidaying in Byron Bay is definitely different. The irony is that it manages the spectacular balancing act of holding the mundane world at bay whilst staying deeply grounded and globally aware. Visitors to Byron Bay very often state they just don’t want to go home again – and subsequently many never do, or they at least return again and again to lap up the serene beauty and inspiring cultural scene.
Peppers Coorabell Retreat
Peppers Coorabell Retreat is one of the relaxing kind where you actually get to put your cares on hold. Situated just a short and picturesque drive behind Byron Bay, Peppers will see you unwind with a relaxing in-room massage or beauty treatment, relax poolside or in the outdoor spa, or wander along Wilson’s Creek. The clean country air and tranquil sounds of nature will ensure you return home rejuvenated.
Byron at Byron Resort and Spa
For a rainforest retreat experience, combined with the joys of the beach and town, Byron at Byron Resort and Spa is set within 45 acres of stunning subtropical rainforest, just moments from Tallow Beach and minutes from town. This multi-award-winning resort provides an idyllic escape in a relaxed atmosphere. This is a place to indulge, with nurturing spa treatments, daily complimentary yoga classes, walks on the timber boardwalks through the rainforest, a 25-metre infinity pool, gym, tennis court and poolside sauna.
Byron Bay Yoga Retreats … and more
Yoga is Byron Bay’s unofficial sport and if you are lucky you’ll encounter a yoga flash mob at the pub, in a cafe or even the beach. If not, you’ll certainly spot many a Byron Bay local or tourist getting around town with their yoga mat on the way to or from a class.
Byron Bay is home to some of Australia’s top yoga instructors, including Jessie Chapman and Peter Clifford, and also hosts several yoga schools and training centres. Byron Bay yoga retreats provide the opportunity to immerse yourself in the experience. They are set in idyllic locations in town or the hinterland and usually include gourmet organic food and plenty of time for unwinding and relaxing. Whether you want to detox, cleanse, de-stress, get fit, be pampered, or take time to focus on your usual yoga practice, a Byron Bay yoga retreat offers a rejuvenating experience.
For those a bit wary of chanting Oms and talking about chakras, Byron Bay also offers pilates. Pilates is the modern-day version of yoga without the spirituality but still with the core strength. For more variations there are Tai Chi, Chi Gung (Qi Gong) and even Byron bay Vapassna retreats where you remain silent for a period of 10 days straight.
Retreats in Byron Bay are plentiful and varied. The lush regional environment, unspoilt beaches, National Parks, inspired lifestyle and retreat facilities all allow you to sit in the stillness and meet yourself again.