Set in the Byron hinterland, Gaia Retreat & Spa was named Australia’s Leading Retreat 2025 at the World Travel Awards, and also received the title of Best Wellness Cuisine 2025 across the Asia Pacific region.
But you don’t need to stay overnight to experience it. Book a day spa treatment and add a gourmet lunch to enjoy a taste of the award-winning retreat. Plus, if you book online or call the team directly, you can receive a 10% locals discount with the code LOCAL10.
Gaia Retreat & Spa, located just up the road in Brooklet, has long been recognised as one of the world’s best since it was founded in the Byron hinterland by Olivia Newton-John. It is Australia’s most-awarded retreat, attracting guests from across the globe and within Australia. Its continued success is driven by its ability to anticipate and adapt to shifts in the wellness tourism industry, which is projected to grow by 10–15% annually.
A defining element of the Gaia experience is its cuisine, which the team describes as ‘at the heart of Gaia’. Crafted daily by talented chefs, each dish celebrates the connection between nourishment and wellbeing, with an ever-changing menu inspired by what is freshly harvested from their organic gardens.
‘Vibrant produce, creative techniques and balanced flavours come together to create meals that are both wholesome and indulgent.’
It’s this commitment to mindful dining that earned Gaia recognition for the Best Wellness Cuisine across the Asia Pacific region.
More info: Gaia Retreat & Spa, 933 Fernleigh Rd, Brooklet.
Ph 6687 1216 • gaiaretreat.com.au
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
