Overview
The rise of White Lotus-esque luxury wellness escapes is in full swing this year, fuelled by the same energy driving members-only health clubs, At these retreats, the itinerary is slower, holiday-goers are excited to be rejuvenated by nature and eco-friendliness is a priority.
The 2025 Spa & Wellness Awards have landed just in time for the holidays, spotlighting the best spa destinations and wellness centres around Australia and New Zealand. In the Travel section, sustainability takes centre stage — and Elements of Byron has just been crowned the Best Resort or Hotel Focused on Wellness, beating out other world-class stays such as Qualia and Kokomo Private Island.
Anchored by the award-winning Osprey Spa, Elements of Byron stretches across 50 acres of rainforest, eucalypt, wetland and dune landscapes at the doorstep of Belongil Beach. The treatments foster have a deep connection to the natural world — the spa hosts rainforest walks led by its resident naturalist, in partnership with Vanessa Megan Skincare (who took Best Haircare at the awards). Guests can wander through banksia, Davidson plum, tea tree and lemon myrtle, all native botanicals found in Vanessa Megan concoctions that grow right on the property — it's the spa version of farm-to-table.
Besides cultivating a love for land, the resort's green ethos includes solar-powered infrastructure, waste-minimising practices, culinary philosophies and partnering with local businesses. Spa Manager Amy Back says, "This award celebrates the passion and integrity behind everything we do, from sustainable operations to the way we source ingredients, train staff, and care for our guests and our environment."
Wellness at Elements of Byron go beyond the Osprey Spa. Guests start their morning with yoga classes overlooking the ocean, ride through the forest on horseback (there's even a charming fairy trail for the kids) or unwind with self-guided meditation rituals. Or grab a cheeky spritz at the swim-up bar in the adults-only pool— because self-care comes in all forms.
Find out more about the 2025 Spa & Wellness Awards.
Images: Supplied