Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat
1800 219 272
A natural history
Stand on a mountain top and see the earth curve. Sandy islands to the north, monolithic Cook Island to the east. Lush vegetation and the blue Pacific dominate the scene. Remnants of the massive 22 million years old Wollumbin (Mt Warning) volcanic plateau gently slant toward the ocean.
Gwinganna is situated on one of these north pointing ridges. Receiving an ideal solar arc. Sunrise and sunsets often linger, fresh ocean breezes cool in summer and refreshing winters are mild. Fertile red soils blend with complex folded sediments pushed up by the granite uplifts 300 million years ago. Microbial rich leaf mould blends into humic material accumulating under scrublands and forests.
Nature enthusiasts
Freshwater springs flow through fern and palm glades into gullies, sprinkling over cliffs and cascading during downpours. Many pathways frame distant mountain views, through billowing canopies and curtains of vines amongst tall eucalypts. Some forest trees have weathered a thousand seasons.
Koalas chew quietly in swaying gums. Red backed wallabies graze on forest verges. Kookaburras chorus when its time to greet the dawn. Enjoy the daily activities. Harvest edible greens, fruits and nuts from fields, gardens and orchards. With guidance gather aromatic leaves from shrubs and grasses for medicinal teas. Be part of this natural splendor in ways that excite you to discover, transform and harvest the abundance of your local natural precincts when you return home.
Environmental walks
John Palmer is our resident botanist and social ecologist. Originally, John followed the animal paths around the property and through the wilderness, from which he developed 16 different walk tracks. John regularly escorts walks and hikes before breakfast, fascinating guests along the way with his knowledge.
John also presents a key session on the program ‘Natures Way’ where he inspires one and all to adopt a more sustainable approach to living in the modern world. He is passionate about recycling and requests that each of us assist in this process. John is also the beekeeper and regularly harvests the Gwinganna honey and is well known for his ability to serenade guests with his guitar sing-a-longs.
Certified Organic
Gwinganna chooses certified organic produce with much of the fresh produce supplied from the on-site gardens. This commitment helps reduce the load on our environment and ensures optimal nutrition form the delicious foods each meal.
In the spa, certified organic skincare is supplied by Phyt’s, recognised as a distinctive therapeutic skincare range for over 40 years.
Organic Gardens
Around the property, you can explore and enjoy the organic gardens which provide an abundance of herbs, greens, fruits and vegetables. The main garden is also home to the composting, worm farming and chickens. Resident organic gardener and former Chef, Shelley Pryor oversees this wonderful spaces and also presents various sessions for guests interested in learning more about organic gardening.
Eco Tourism Certified
The Eco Certification logo means that you are gauranteed to experience a genuine facility that looks after the environment.
Nature Tourism shows that Gwinganna is located in beautiful natural surroundings creating minimal impact on the environment.
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