Independent editorial without retail bias       

Lord of the Springs

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Veronica Matheson takes the plunge in some of the finest spas in Central Victoria 

Of late, I’ve enjoyed much needed pampering in day spas in Daylesford/Hepburn Springs, and left with skin glowing - from the treatments - and from knowing this former gold mining hub has really got its spa act together.

Today it is gold class in its professional approach to spas, in its state of the art buildings, and in the wide range of treatments on offer amid mineral springs that give sublime soaks.

Here the day spa diva can sample new wave treatments, stressed out young Mums can flop and drop without the kids in tow, and those with an eye to romance can bliss out in sanctuaries made for two.

The flash Hepburn Bathhouse, a day spa that is so spacious you almost need a map to find your way around, is the most popular place to be.

The Bathhouse looks so fresh and so 21st century after a 2-year, $13-million renovation of the original historic bathhouse (circa 1895).

I wanted to have a massage the day I visited, but there were no spots available. The place was chockas.

Undaunted, I stayed to see what other indulgences were on offer at the Bathhouse.  And was I glad I did. There was no shortage of company with so many enjoying something akin to a spa party, especially European families joyously “taking to the waters” in communal baths,  just as they did back in the old country.

What with a hot pool where spa couches were immersed so that multi-directional jets targeted body parts, a hot salt pool where the skin turned a healthy baby pink, a hot steam room and monsoon showers to cool off,  and a relaxation deck for quiet cocooning, I was far too busy for a massage.

 

 

 

Next day the calm of the fragrant treatment rooms lifted my spirits to another level of indulgence.

The award-winning Salus Spa at Daylesford’s Lake House is quite different and garners the 5-star ambience of a property renowned for its stylish accommodation and award winning restaurant.

The spa here is indulgent and cosy, with wooden louver windows in treatment rooms tucked into the garden as if tree houses, and makes for a reviving back to nature experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A few kilometres away at Hepburn Springs, the Peppers Springs Retreat is an elegant 5-star hotel with a contemporary light-filled spa that contrasts with the Art Deco feel of the rest of the property where claw footed baths and antique furnishings in some rooms hark back to another era.

Here, too, hot mineral waters are the star turn with pampered guests soaked, brushed, pummelled into miraculous form amid mineral pools, an oil infused sauna, wet steam room, and detox box with hot rocks.

It is no wonder locals are adamant Daylesford’s mineral waters are rich in therapeutic powers to cure just about any ill, and that more massage therapists and healers live in this area than anywhere else in Australia.

Editor's note: Another great day spa is Daylesford Day Spa and Beauty.

Centrally located in a converted heritage building, Daylesford Day Spa creates a unique philosophy and nature-based experience. From the moment you walk in to the time you float out our door, you will enjoy the combined effects of the spa's nurturing environment, exceptionally attentive staff and total mind-body-spirit focus.

Spa Files:

www.peppers.com.au/springs/mineral-spa
www.hepburnbathhouse.com
www.lakehouse.com.au
www.daylesforddayspa.com.au

More:

Mineral Spa at Peppers Springs Retreat
Unwind in the Mineral Spa, part of the Peppers Springs Retreat at Hepburn Springs, just minutes from Daylesford. Begin your indulgent retreat in the 37 degree mineral-water plunge pool then step into the stone bath sauna perfumed with essential oils. Move on to a body wrap using Li'Tya and Pevonia Botanica products before experiencing the ultimate in relaxation on the only soft-pak float beds in the South Hemisphere.

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Visit the iconic Hepburn Bathhouse for an unforgettable experience that will rejuvenate and revitalise. A "must do" activity since it's inception all the way back in 1895, the Bathhouse has enjoyed a $13m redevelopment and offers traditional communal bathing along with private treatments in The Spa. Enjoy the curative effects of mineral salts in the aroma steam room, salt therapy pool and spa couches submerged in mineral water.

Salus Spa at the Lake House
Check in or be a day guest at the award-winning Salus Spa, situated at the Lake House. The Scandinavian style of predominantly blond woods and pale blue perfectly suits the climate of the region. Start with a relaxing soak in a treetop spa, overlooking the lake, before succumbing to the ministrations of the therapists with the Winter Bliss treatment using the aromas of the region in a rhythmic hot-stone massage and body exfoliation.

Daylesford Day Spa & Beauty
Reward yourself with earthy and harmonious ambience, in the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
25 Albert Street, Daylesford

endota spa Daylesford
Opt for Daylesford's most muscle-melting treatments, combining friendly, down-to-earth service with all-Australian organic products.
Cnr Central Springs Road and Vincent Street, Daylesford

Shizuka Ryokan Day Spa Retreat
Prepare to be completely pampered in a traditional Japanese environment and experience a unique range of treatments.
7 Lakeside Drive, Hepburn Springs

Acqua Viva Day Spa
Enjoy the pure indulgence of a range of personalised body treatments including mineral baths at this boutique day spa.
5 Tenth Street, Hepburn Springs

The Body Isle Day Spa
Choose from natural mineral water and mineral and milk baths and an abundance of facilities including wraps, therapies, sauna, plus accommodation.
10-16 Forest Avenue, Hepburn Springs

Living Energy Retreat, Daylesford
Treatments to nurture, relax, invigorate, and rejuvenate are available at this garden retreat. Mobile call out is also available.
17 Main Road, Daylesford

Queensberry Studio
Go for boutique-style luxury and luxuriate with aromatherapy spa and massage therapy packages in a private studio.
23 Queensberry Street, Daylesford