Gaia Retreat & Spa

An amazing weekend in every way! Lovely, friendly and helpful staff, beautiful nourishing and delicious cuisine, gorgeous surroundings… will be back! Thank you everyone!

The welcoming service is horrible.

I went to this place a long time ago and now wanted to show it to my wife. We came here just to visit the place, to check around and enjoy a little bit of the views.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, a guy with, I think, a French accent, appeared dressed in pants and long-sleeve short, olive colour - one of the people who collect customers' luggage. He asked us to leave as we are not checking in, and this is a private property. We said okay and were inted to leave soon anywyas.

But unfortunately, our 6.5 months baby was hungry, so we had to occupy one of the benches outside to feed him before leaving. The guy saw us, and this time, he was VERY rude. I mean, very. Looks like he took it very personally that we didn't follow his order to leave the property immediately, and he started intimidating us with the security and police in a quite aggressive manner.

Also, I think that if I were to arrive not in Mazda 2, but something luxury and expensive, we wouldn't be discriminated against by such behaviour.

We are like.what a hell? Aren't we in Australia? What sort of service is it? And we were actually just about to go inside to the reception and ask for information about the prices and accommodation. So next time we could come and stay here.

The frecnh-accent blocke was totally disrespectful, rude, impolite, and didn't show any empathy. The place itself is just incredible, though. But having such staff members leaves a negative impression. I reckon such people should be dismissed from the job and downgrades the facility.

Today I had a day spa experience with Kate. She asked about me and resonated perfectly. The spa at Gaia is amazing. Treatments are in tune with each individual. All of the staff from the spa to the restaurant are faultless, kind and gentle. Thank you

Gaia retreat is the most wonderful gift you could possibly give to yourself. The rooms are beautiful with so much attention to detail. You are completely looked after and nurtured from the outstanding organic 5 star meals, to staff who are kind, warm, friendly, compassionate and caring. The grounds in which the retreat is on are beautiful and well maintained. You feel as though you can breathe again. Special mention to Ellmay - you are a star, and also all the other therapists who are experts in their field and wonderful people.
Thank you so much Gaia

Hands down the best retreat and spa experience of my life! Thank you Gaia ️
The Gaia philosophy, staff, land and cuisine is simply exceptional Would recommend all the activities offered daily, and the cocoa body masque plus the kidney/facial experiences at the day spa.
Would highly recommend this for anyone looking for; a break from the city, to recover, or reconnect with themselves.

"Wellness retreat" full of single females! Great environment, healthy and delicious food, and excellent, friendly service. Very expensive - $4200 for 2 for two nights!

After buying this candle from Gaia the wick disappeared after one use. Had to dig out the wax and most of the candle was gone, what a waste of money.
Have had many treatments at Gaia, 5 stars for the facility & staff but a zero star for this product

I love ️ my time at Gaia. Everything is perfect. The food, the ambience, and particularly the therapists are second to none. In fact, I will be back again in August and can't wait.

It used to be better 3 years ago in everything (except the beautiful location- it's still there)

I love my time at Gaia. Everything is perfect. The food, the ambience, and particularly the therapists are second to none. In fact, I will be back again in August and can't wait.

Absolutely life changing experience at Gaia for a weekend away with my mum. Truely so beautiful, from the incredible food, staff, facilities and treatments. Would highly recommend! Thank you for having us, we will definitely be back xxx

My mum & i came to Gaia to spend some quality time together & to leave feeling at least 1% better following a recent family tragedy.i expected the stay to bring us relaxation & enjoyment, but it was much deeper than that. Gaia & its beautiful energy allowed us to feel safe & we were able to open up & let the beautiful staff take care of us.every part of our stay was a stand-out, from the food to the spa treatments to the daily activities.the food was fresh & wholesome, but also bloody delicious.i loved the fact that everything was enjoyed in moderation — it wasn’t the kind of health retreat where you’re banished of your phone, chocolate & coffee! The love & careful attention was evident in each bite of food — thank you, chefs!

as for the spa, there were so many little details that did not go unnoticed.tea & fruit platters were available on request before & after every treatment.the staff were professional, warm & accommodating.sage was burnt during massages & we were gently brought back to the room with singing bowls once the treatment was finished.my favourite treatment was the acupuncture & cupping.my mums favourite treatment was the “Sole to Soul”.

my mum & i connected with a yoga teacher, Claire, who was funny & so knowledgeable & passionate about yoga.we did 2 private classes with her, where she shared her experience & knowledge about switching on the correct muscles in everyday life, as well as on the mat.she placed emphasis on posture & keeping a healthy spine.she even gave us notes & book recommendations.thank you for taking care of us, and for helping my mum, Claire.we also did a private cacao ceremony with Mishi, who was like the human form of sunshine.the ceremony was beautiful & healing for me in particular.i was sobbing by the end of it, and Mishi gave me one of the best hugs i’ve ever received.the “Breath of Bliss” group class was another stand out.we were guided to breathe deeply & rhythmically, while letting our bodies do whatever they needed to.it was an extremely powerful & vulnerable experience that allowed my mum & i to feel very close to one another, and also to a woman that we met in the class.i was lucky enough to experience the “Forage & Graze” package, which included private gardening & cooking classes. Cam was super passionate & knowledgeable about organic gardening. It made me appreciate the hard work & love that goes into Gaia’s gardens & kitchen.the general / front of house staff were all so lovely & accommodating.they allowed us to squeeze every drop out of our experience.they even let a dear friend from the Gold Coast come & spend the day with us.every inch of Gaia is beautiful & peaceful.in fact, it got more beautiful every day we were there.there aren’t enough words to express how grateful we both feel to have shared this experience.thank you, thank you, thank you.we will definitely be back with all of our loved ones!

lots of love, Taylor & Ann-Maree xo

Gorgeous food, great staff in the restaurant, fab pool area, lovely yoga studio. Accommodation incredibly dated, and didn't come anywhere near expectations for the price tag (I could also hear my neighbour coughing the walls were so thin). I had an unfortunate bug infestation in my room on the last day and they were concerned, but not too apologetic about it (the insects were up in the roof, all over the bed, side tables - it wasn't great). I was told they were updating accommodations this week.

Gaia is amazing, and if you are considering it - go! I would have given it 4.5 stars, and will explain where it can improve.

I run at 200%, and came to Gaia on a 7 night retreat, prepared to leave my stresses behind and just go with it. I came here to give myself some clear headspace and focus on myself. I put a self imposed digital restriction, gave up coffee and alcohol and refined sugar. However, you can do it as you like - you want coffee, wine, dairy - it is there. You want a full detox - you can do it too.

The food:
Amazing quality, adaptable, and plenty of it. I asked for extra protein in my meals and they always remembered after day 1. They adapt for all: dairy free, gluten free, no onion, no garlic, vegan.you name it. 3-4 courses for dinner, 3 options for breakfast plus if you just want eggs however you like, or fruit it's done. Lunch is always a refreshing salad or bowl. Each meal is full of greens that they grow on premise and the plate is colourful. It is the definition of nourish, without being hungry. In case you wanted to know, they do fish and chicken + I saw a pork and steak dish one night. There are also snacks available on request throughout the day. 5 stars for food: top restaurant quality - the chef is amazing.

Service:
The staff are super helpful, always there when you have a question and prepared to go the extra mile. They remember your name and your requirements.

Rooms:
A little out dated - but who cares? The bed is super comfortable, and you have everything you need - a desk, kettle, free laundry service, a deck for an outdoor read, a smart tv with all the streaming services and internet. Cross ventilated and relaxing.

Facilities/Class:
The Gym is decent. There is different types of cardio equipment, up to 30kg on dumbbells, adjustable barbell, a smith machine, cable fly machine, kettle bells, ski-erg, assault bike.plenty for an avid gym goer be satisfied for a week. The Yoga studio is blissful - it over looks a valley and you can just hear the wind and trees during your sessions. Pool temperature was nice, and hot tub was hot, with a sauna also there to help you zen out.

Spa:
I did 6 different therapies, and they were mixed. Reflexology massage - good, Chinese medicine consultation (cupping/acupuncture) - good, soul to sole - meh.it felt like i just had creams smeared on my feet without a decent massage. Aromatherapy massage - hated it. If you want to feel like a basted chicken, covered in oil, including you face.you will love it. I get it.this is what the treatment is, i just hate laying in oil. Maybe I was naive, maybe they should have asked if I wanted to be drowned in oil and have it put on my face. Body scrub and steam - do it. My skin felt so smooth afterwards - amazing. Facial, again, 90 minutes and way too much oil being smeared on me. Note for anyone going - if you want a decent massage, make sure you request it, and if you don't like oil.tell them. They should ask before rubbing oil on your face though

Yoga + Mediation + Activities:
I don't do yoga normally, and came here for that reason, it was great. Easy and inviting - 2 classes a day. Special call out to Clare who took me for a few group yoga and breathing classes, as well as some private yoga and meditation sessions: she was phenomenal. Well educated and explains everything, spiritual, but grounded that makes you feel super comfortable. I would come back again and have one on one sessions just with her. Other two activities during the day were fun - but your call to opt in/out

Location:
The location is a 20 minute drive to Byron and Ballina and a 3km walk to a cute town up the road with a cafe, some boutiques stores and a restaurant. They have bikes if you want to cycle too.

Overall:
I highly recommend Gaia, it is the perfect circuit breaker that you can do at your own pace, no matter your age/gender. Go all in detox, or just introduce some positive experiences that help you recharge and refresh. I got everything I wanted and will be back. 7 nights is great, but 5 nights will do just as well.

Gaia is a totally authentic, restorative and beautiful retreat in every way. The lush surroundings, incredible food and wonderful day spa (fabulous natropath, yoga teacher, astrologist and spa practitioners) are all exceptional. The most wonderful aspect however, is the Gaia team, of genuine, kind, knowledgeable and professional people. They made my whole experience so special, that I booked in again before I left.
Thank you all for such a transformative week, I’m looking forward to returning already!
Love to all.
Victoria x

I booked a massage here in their day spa. I had a glorious lunch with delicious food and enjoyed the hot tub and pool and day beds. However, the massage was surprisingly disappointing. At a place of this caliber, I expected more. My massage therapist was 5 minutes late. I have a LOT of experience with massage and know what I like. I asked her twice to decrease the pressure and I was clenching my teeth with discomfort at times when she didn’t listen. Her movements and style made me think she isn’t as experienced as I would have hoped. I told her my traps were tight and she spent most of the time on my glutes and legs, ignoring my initial requests. I would wave this off if I had been anywhere else but with the prices they’re charging, I feel at a loss.

I've been to many spas in my lifetime, but this one is the best spa I've ever been to. I was so relaxed that I didn't want to leave!

Never disappointed when I come here. The food is so good its beyond words, the view, the atmosphere, the service it's just always on point and well above the rest.

Visit several times for relax. It’s amazing they have the right temperature for massage, room and oils were prepared well. I like the swim in the afternoon. A great hideout

A absolute delight to spend a weekend at this amazing retreat. Very comfortable; food was amazing. A healthy experience