Gwinganna is an all-inclusive wellness retreat on a bushland plateau in Queensland's Tallebudgera Valley, behind the Gold Coast. It suits adults who want a structured, screen-light reset with early-morning movement, certified organic food, talks from wellness experts and plenty of spa time, on stays of two to seven nights.
What it's like
Gwinganna sits high on a plateau in the Tallebudgera Valley, in the green hinterland behind the Gold Coast. The property covers more than 160 hectares of bushland on Yugambeh Country, with views across the valley toward the coast. It's one of the most biodiverse corners of Australia, so expect plenty of birdlife and wildlife around you. The retreat holds eco certification and has been running for more than two decades.
The experience is fully inclusive. You arrive, hand over the planning and follow a rhythm that balances movement, food, learning and rest. Everything on the schedule is optional, which takes the pressure off if you'd rather sleep in or spend the afternoon reading.
Two house rules shape the mood. Phones and other devices are meant to stay in your room, and alcohol isn't allowed on the property except for wine served by the staff. If you're staying five nights or longer, caffeine also comes off the menu, so the retreat suggests cutting back on coffee in the week before you arrive. In 2025, the World Spa Awards named it Oceania's and Australia's best wellness retreat.
The programs
Retreats run from two to seven nights, and you can combine them for a longer stay. The core options are:
- Ultimate Wellness, the 7-night signature retreat
- Optimum Wellbeing, 5 nights
- Rest and Restore and Rest and Reset, 4 nights each
- Time Out Long Weekend, 3 nights
- Wellness Weekend, 2 nights, including a version focused on men's health
There are also themed retreats on set dates, such as a burnout program with Dr Libby, a yoga and mindful living retreat, and gut health and conscious living weeks. Check the retreat dates page for what's coming up.
A typical day starts with qi gong at sunrise, then a guided bushland walk before breakfast. Mid-morning, you choose a gentler session like yoga, Pilates or stretching, or something more energetic like boxing, strength work or dance. An expert seminar follows, then lunch and an afternoon in the Spa Sanctuary. Evenings bring meditation or sound healing before dinner.
Beyond the classes, there's self-guided mountain bathing at secluded spots around the property, a sensory bee hut and equine therapy sessions.
Food
All meals are certified organic, gluten-free and dairy-free, built around seasonal produce. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are part of the daily rhythm, so you won't be hunting for snacks.
Who it suits (and who it doesn't)
Gwinganna is a great fit for people who want a clear structure and a break from screens and alcohol. Solo travelers are well looked after, and the communal schedule makes it easy to meet people if you want to.
It's less suited to anyone who needs to stay connected for work, or who wants a resort-style holiday with cocktails by the pool. If you're attached to your morning coffee, the caffeine-free policy on longer stays takes some getting used to.
Getting there
The retreat is at 192 Syndicate Road in the Tallebudgera Valley. Fly into Gold Coast Airport, where a complimentary transfer leaves at 1pm, so aim to land by midday. On departure day, the transfer gets you back to the airport by about 2:30pm, so book flights after 3:30pm. Check-in runs from 2pm to 4:30pm if you're driving yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my phone at Gwinganna?
Only in your own room. The retreat asks guests to keep devices out of shared spaces.
Is alcohol allowed?
You can't bring your own. The only alcohol on site is wine served by the Gwinganna team.
Is it good for solo travelers?
Yes. The retreat encourages solo stays and says single guests are well looked after.
Is there an airport transfer?
Yes, a complimentary transfer runs from Gold Coast Airport at 1pm on arrival day, though it doesn't apply to every program, so check when you book.
Can the kitchen handle gluten or dairy intolerance?
All meals are gluten-free and dairy-free as standard. See current retreat dates on the official Gwinganna website.
