The town of 1770/Agnes Water
(700km from home)
Arriving in 1770 (minutes away from the nearby town of Agnes
Water), I was hit with a familiar sense of nostalgia — this
inviting little town reminded me of so many childhood family
holidays.
Stay: In 1770, Lagoons is an affordable but upmarket option
that’s quiet and comfortable, with a luxurious pool lit by
lanterns at night. I couldn’t resist a second stop in the area on
the way home — Agnes Water Beach Caravan Park is a
bustling little community that’s more humble, but the
beachfront glamping tents can’t be beat for nature lovers.
Nature: The nature is the main attraction of the area. Go for
the Red Rock Beach Track. There are beautiful beaches dotted
along the way — you can laze away the day under coconut
palms or take a three-hour trek through sacred land. For
sunset, wander the Butterfly Walk from Cook’s Monument at
1770 and watch the sun disappear across the horizon. Don’t
forget to give the trees a little shake for a butterfly show.
Yo ga : The whole community knows the local yoga teacher Mel
of Vitality Yoga, and she comes highly recommended. Classes
are held in a big, outdoor tent where you can hear the sounds
of birds, the ocean, and the wind rustling the trees as you
practice a sublime, nurturing flow.^37october 2017yogajournal.com.auSunshine Coast – Maleny
(300km from home)
Maleny had my heart from the moment I stepped foot in the
friendly, hillside village. I was romantically planning a move
to the area within minutes of arriving, and words can’t do
justice to how much I loved this part of my adventure. The
Sunshine Coast is worthy of its own Escape story — watch
this space.
Stay: Spicer’s Tamarind is the most indulgent place I’ve ever
stayed. It is the ultimate in yogic luxury — and quite
affordable if you can share the space with friends. There’s an
on-site day spa where you can soak away in the steam room
and spa that overlooks the valleys, but that’s just the
beginning. The glamorous cabins are surrounded by nature
and you’re instantly drawn to the fireplace as you step inside
the room. You can relax in the bathtub overlooking the
garden and the bathroom tiles are heated — need I say more?
Nature: There’s so much nature to explore in the area. You
can opt for a simple stroll to the retreat’s nearby waterfall or
adventure beyond to the many mountains and waterfalls that
the area boasts.
Yo ga : Maleny Mountain Yoga offers a smorgasbord of yoga,
tai chi and relaxation classes, nestled amongst the green hills
and forests just outside town.
Fraser Island (600km from home)
Fraser Island feels delightfully backward — think Eighties
tourism, four-wheel-drive tours and limited food options,
but it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The holiday
atmosphere begins as soon as you step off the ferry, and the
nature is magnificent.
Stay: Kingfisher Bay Resort has all the creature comforts
with great sunset views and a plethora of sight-seeing tours.
Nature: A trip to Lake McKenzie should be number one on
your to-do list. Settle into white sand as you bask in the sun
before a dip in the crystal blue waters. It’s picture-perfect,
serene, and makes the mission beyond the familiar shores feel
worthwhile.
Yo ga : There are no yoga options on the island, but a practice
on the balcony of your room as the sun sets beats any studio
experience.