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october 2017yogajournal.com.auPHOTO: SATURATED; HOLGS; AUSTRALIANCAMERA/ ISTOCKPHOTO.COMAirlie Beach (1300km from home)
There are vibrant markets along the Airlie Beach strip, and
the nearby, lazy town of Hideaway Bay made a perfect
lunchtime picnic place (although the camp grounds were
completely full).
Nature: The beaches are undeniably beautiful, and you only
need to open your eyes to discover a perfect walking trail.
And, of course, if you have time, you can always pop over to
The Whitsundays.
Yo ga : Yoga Therapies is the epitome of a small town studio
with an inviting community of yogis, away from the hustle
and bustle of the main street.Mission Beach (1800km from home)
Driving towards Mission Beach, I noticed the landscape
instantly change. Barren land turned into lush greenery
and mountainous views into the distance.
Stay: Sanctuary is one of Australia’s biggest yoga retreat
centres, also offering guest accommodation for those who
want to visit for a night or two. You’re likely to spot a
cassowary, and accommodation consists of little huts with
only screens to protect from the elements. Throughout the
night, you’ll be enveloped in a cacophony of forest sounds
and have the truly eye-opening experience of what life once
might have been.
Nature: You can take a stroll through Sanctuary’s grounds,
and there are plenty of secluded beaches to wander. Ask the
locals to point you in the direction of the best nature walks.
Yo ga : The area is quiet, so opt for a self-practice, or join in
one of Sanctuary’s retreats for the full yoga experience.Cairns (1900km from home)
In my mind Cairns had always been a cute little beach town, but
in reality it felt like a big city. It’s on the water, so there’s that
laid-back vibe but with plenty of stimulation on offer. Keen to
continue my journey, my visit to Cairns was brief, and locals
suggested exploring the northern beaches for a more relaxed
atmosphere.
Yo ga : Knoff Yoga (I’ve heard my yoga friends referring to owner
Nicky as ‘the Queen’) and Yoga Hub are the places to practice.
If you’re heading to the northern beaches, the nearby suburb
of Palm Cove also has a number of small yoga businesses
offering outdoor classes that take in the beautiful landscape.ADVENTURE
Om
Yeppoon (820km from home)
Mel had recommended I visit Yeppoon, and as a fellow yogi,
I completely trusted her advice.
Stay/Nature: Just north of Yeppoon is the Byfield National
Park, where I found my very own Garden of Eden. Byfield
Camp Stay has beautiful gardens and private, relaxed
camping. There’s nowhere to swim on the property so it
may not be an option for the very hot months, but it was
absolutely magic in July. There are also national park
campgrounds with swimming and walks nearby.
Yo ga : In Yeppoon, try Jasmine Place Yoga – the local
mindfulness centre specialising in counselling, meditation
and delicious, flowing asana.Pit Stop – Mackay
Nature: North of Mackay, you’ll find an abundance of nature
to explore — from nature walks to swimming holes and
waterfalls. Cedar Creek Falls is just south of Airlie Beach and
an easy stop along the way.