The Gift of Rest: A Day of Serenity at The Swan Valley Retreat

I recently took my friend Ashayla for a spa treatment as a little gift to celebrate her son’s first birthday. I know, not the usual milestone to spoil mum for... but honestly, shouldn’t it be? It’s not just babies birthday, its also the anniversary of her doing something pretty bloody incredible, and then surviving an entire year of little to no sleep while keeping another tiny human alive. If that’s not cause for celebration, I don’t know what is!

If this isn't a meme in the making I don't know what is!

We kicked off the morning with a cute little breakfast stop at my favourite cafe Champagne and Gumboots, because ya girl is coeliac, its 10 minutes from the Spa we were going too, fully coeliac safe, and Coeliac Australia accredited, (Plus Stacey the owner and baker extraordinaire is just a wonderful human!) I’m not exaggerating when I say they make some of the best dang bagels I’ve ever eaten, the first time I went there I was certain I'd been gluttoned because it tasted too good! I'm now a regular and never been gluttoned once.

A cozy breakfast, some giggles, and we were off to the spa with full hearts and full tummies.

Photo taken by yours truly at Champagne and Gumboots

Our first treatment at The Swan Valley Retreat was the 1-hour Oasis session, and oh my glob, what a dream. We were led to a beautiful, secluded cabin surrounded by trees and birdsong. Inside was our own little slice of paradise: a sauna, a cold plunge (for those brave enough, spoiler: we absolutely were not! we were a sleep deprived mumma and an overworked neurodivergent - not vikings!), and an outdoor shower to rinse off before sinking into the pièce de résistance - the spa. Chilled ice water and a beautiful grazing platter were included. Shay made light work of the food. I may have forgotten to mention I’m coeliac on the booking, so I’m unsure if they can accommodate dietary needs, since we came straight from breakfast I didn't mind, but next time, I’ll definitely ask!

As you can see, I am clearly VERY serious when having my photo taken!

Afterwards, Shay went off for her float tank session, an hour of blissful silence for a sleep-deprived mumma, while I indulged in a full-body relaxation massage. I would love to say I floated away into another realm of serenity, but my stomach decided it was the perfect time to audition for any local marching bands. My masseuse, absolute angel that she was, didn’t miss a beat. She reassured me it was perfectly normal and kept the atmosphere calm and kind, which honestly made me feel completely at ease despite my stomach doing its best to embarrass me.

I swear being friends with me feels like being friends with a paparazzi - in the best way possible, I hope...XD

We ended the day in the relaxation room, sipping bubbles and tea while overlooking a tranquil lake. The view was pure serenity! (How's the Serenity?! - Aussies get it ;P ) a living painting of birds gliding across the water, alpacas, sheep, and cows grazing just beyond the fence line. They couldn’t come close enough to bother us (though honestly, I would’ve loved a nosy alpaca popping by to say hello!).

By the time we left, both of us felt lighter, softer, and completely reset. The kind of peace that seeps right into your bones.

And the second I got home? I didn’t even sit down before grabbing my phone and booking another Oasis Session this time as a surprise for my hubby’s birthday in a few weeks. If there’s one thing I learned, it’s that this place isn’t just for special occasions - it creates them. A little sanctuary tucked away from the chaos of everyday life, waiting to remind you that rest, connection, and a good soak can be downright magical.

See you again soon Swan Valley Retreat.

Overall Rating: 9.5/10

Yes, the prices are on the higher end - but honestly, it’s so worth it. Every detail, from the peaceful setting to the thoughtful staff and quality treatments, feels like it’s designed to restore your soul. If you’re looking to treat yourself, celebrate someone special, or just step out of the noise for a while, The Swan Valley Retreat is a must visit.

Swan Valley Retreat Spa Experience At a Glance

Location: 79 Irwin Street, Henley Brook WA 6055

Treatments Tried: 1-Hour Oasis Session, Float Tank, Full Body Relaxation Massage

Duration: Approximately 3 hours total (including time in the relaxation lounge)

Price Range: ranging from $80 - $400 depending on the treatment and number of people. little on the higher end, but worth every cent for the quality and atmosphere.

Food & Drink: Complimentary grazing platter in the Oasis, jug of water, tea, and bubbles (bubbles an additional add on) note: check for dietary accommodations if you’re coeliac or have allergies.

Vibe: Peaceful, private, and deeply rejuvenating - perfect for mums, couples, or solo self-care escapes.

Highlight: The secluded cabin with sauna, spa, and that gorgeous lakeside relaxation room view

Would I Go Again? Absolutely - already booked another session for hubby’s birthday!