Review: Stand Tall Retreats Wellness Weekend-Australian Traveller

A wellness weekend in the Shoalhaven is designed to inspire women to stand tall.

Stand Tall Retreats are designed for those seeking an escape from physical or emotional stress. According to founder Amy Manton, it’s making those small changes to our usual routine that allow for greater insights and opportunities to reset. Here’s the rundown of what a wellness weekend with Stand Tall Retreats on the Shoalhaven region of the NSW South Coast looks like.

First impressions

The Shoalhaven is shaping up as a destination for wellness. And the founder of Stand Tall Retreats Amy Manton has responded to demand by curating a three-day itinerary woven around wellness. The retreat goes far beyond massages and facials. Though there are those too! It’s more of a hybrid of horse riding and hula hooping, ayurvedic eating and pilates, yoga and surf lessons. But what is also wonderful about this roving retreat is that it provides a safe space for women to disconnect from their busy lives and stir the spirit.

horse riding on the beach at Stand Tall Retreats.

Go horse riding at Stand Tall Retreats. (Image: Amy Manton)

The location

The two-hour drive to the Shoalhaven from Sydney or Canberra makes Berry on the NSW South Coast a top spot to get away from it all, restore and reconnect. Berry is also on the train line, travelling through the tangled greenery of the Royal National Park and craggy Illawarra Escarpment from Sydney. The rail route follows the cliffs that are buttered yellow in the early morning light. And we are so close to the sea at times that we can see puffs of mist as the waves pound the coastline. It’s where the weekend’s meditation begins.

The accommodation

Guests with Stand Tall Retreats enjoy exclusive access to luxury boutique farmhouse Sinclairs of Berry during their stay. During my normal working day, I’m showered with emails, Whatsapp messages, and drowning in domestic duties. Staying in this boutique guesthouse, with its slew of comfy couches, alcoves and corners to cosy up in, really felt luxurious.

The retreat is held in the luxury boutique farmhouse Sinclairs of Berry. (Image: Amy Manton)

Despite being just a block away from the main street of Berry, it’s a place of comfort and privacy. There is also a carefully curated gift box, which includes everything from a Totem Eco natural deodorant to artisan chocolate from Loco Love Chocolate. A bottle of wine from Silo Estate is also included – everything in moderation.

Finding a cosy space to make your own is easy here. (Image: Ainslie Co. Photography/Stand Tall Retreats)

The rooms

There is something so soothing about falling into an enormous bed when exhausted. And the bed in my room at Sinclairs of Berry brings enormous comfort. It’s styled with different textures, botanical prints and textiles and a plethora of pillows. Although all the rooms are uniquely different, my bedroom opens out onto the sun-splashed terrace and swimming pool. Being in this space is like a warm embrace. There’s an antique chair I can curl up in to admire the views over the green folds of the countryside which spills down to Broughton Mill Creek. There’s a designer ensuite bathroom, too.

It wouldn’t be a wellness retreat without a super luxe bed to call your own. (Image: Ainslie Co. Photography/Stand Tall Retreats)

Facilities

There’s something about a country kitchen that brings people together. All the catering is taken care of during our stay, but guests who book out the luxury farmhouse will have access to a state-of-the-art country kitchen, with a dishwasher and a butler’s pantry.

All up, Sinclairs of Berry has eight bedrooms, nine bathrooms and accommodates 18 guests. It also has an infinity pool that looks out over the surrounding countryside. There’s a fire pit for stargazing and an indoor fireplace for wintry nights.

The kitchen is well-equipped for cooking up a storm. (Image: Ainslie Co. Photography/Stand Tall Retreats)

Food and drink

The Standing Tall Retreat itinerary is jam-packed with activities. So, when we do reconvene as a group it’s often around the dining table. It’s there that we learn that everyone at the retreat is ready for a reset. Food is a major focus of the weekend away and the feasts prepared by Karina, of Dandelion & Mallow Wholefood Kitchen, are incredible.

Lunch treatment at dining table at Stand Tall Retreats

When you reconvene as a group it’s often around the dining table. (Image: Amy Manton)

There are salads bristling with just-picked herbs, leaves, and tomatoes and everything from salsas to pate are made from scratch. In addition to enjoying simple, wholesome food, the conversation around the table makes for a nourishing and nurturing experience.

Outdoor dining table at Stand Tall Retreats

In addition to enjoying wholesome food, the conversation around the table makes for a nourishing and nurturing experience. (Image: Amy Manton)

Activities

Shout-outs to Monique, from Regal Riding School, who paired me with Bill The Best Horse In All the Land and empowered me to brave a brief canter.

There are all kinds of wellness activities to try during your stay. (Image: Ainslie Co. Photography/Stand Tall Retreats)

We also learn about gut health during a holistic ayurvedic health workshop with Dr Verena, enjoy a reiki session led by Casey, of Restore Reiki, and have the option of a facial and massage with Alexis Barnett, of Skin Fit Body & Beauty.

Receiving facial and massage at Stand Tall Retreats

Enjoy a facial and massage at the retreat. (Image: Amy Manton)

Additional highlights include hula hooping after our yin yoga class with Gloria Tong and a surf lesson with Eric, from Surfcamp Australia.

Yoga at Stand Tall Retreats Sinclairs of Berry

A yoga class in the garden is a beautiful way to reset. (Image: Ainslie Co. Photography/Stand Tall Retreats)

Free time

Free time. What’s that again? It’s something I don’t get a lot of. So, to see it written into the itinerary gives me permission to slow down, keep my laptop closed, turn my phone off and close my eyes. When I do switch off, those moments of revelation come thick and fast. I know that I’ve been working too hard, and the weekend away prompts me to think more about working smarter, not harder. By Monday morning, I have managed to say no to the offer of more work in favour of balance and more time to spend with my family.

Infinity Pool Sinclairs of Berry Stand Tall Retreats)

Spend your free time relaxing by the pool. (Image: Ainslie Co. Photography/Stand Tall Retreats)

Wellness results

I’m not sure if it’s the reiki, the yoga, the reformer Pilates, hula-hooping, horse riding or daily dips in the pool. Perhaps it’s the cumulative effect of all the above. But after three days of using different muscles, I really feel like I am walking taller, and my shoulders have softened. If the aim of the retreat is to empower women, then Stand Tall Retreats does just that and then some. And I know one thing for certain: I’ve never slept better than following a weekend with Stand Tall Retreats in Berry in the Shoalhaven region. In fact, I feel like a leaf in the water. Just going with the flow.

You’ll walk taller after a weekend of reformer Pilates and other wellness activities. (Image: Amy Manton)

Details

The three-day retreats start at $2000, which includes all the activities, a gift hamper on arrival, food, drink and accommodation. Stand Tall Retreats also facilitate one-day retreats and bespoke one-off leather crafting workshops. The region’s website also has more inspiration for wellness weekends in Shoalhaven.

Stand Tall Retreats also facilitate one-day retreats and bespoke one-off leather crafting workshops. (Image: Amy Manton)

Find a homely base right by the ocean with the most exceptional Kiama Airbnbs.

The enigmatic natural beauty of laidback Kiama attracts all kinds of travellers, desperate to refill their cups via laidback coastal ease, nature-based activities and one heck of a thriving arts scene. Offering comfortable base camps to launch your escapades are the best Kiama Airbnbs, filled with creature comforts and luxuries not even the best local accommodation can offer. Presenting your most serene Airbnb options for family getaways, romantic weekends and all-too-sacred alone time.

1. Oceanview Kiama

A modern coastal room at Oceanview Kiama.

Best for: beach proximity and stylish photo backdrops

Oceanview Kiama looks as though it’s stepped straight off your Pinterest scroll with the bonus of landing right by soothing Bombo Beach. The self-contained Kiama Airbnb overlooks the waves, and while it’s small, a queen bedroom is joined by two single sofa beds to sleep up to four guests with ease.

Instantly calm via a white-on-timber colour palette as glimpses of that shimmering blue brighten every peer beyond the balcony, the spot attracts budding photographers for its exterior, too, sitting close to Bombo Quarry, Cathedral Rocks and a myriad of natural attractions. Plus, you’re only a stroll to Kiama’s best eateries and bars.

The train goes right by, making it a smart choice if you’re keen to tackle the Kiama Coastal Walk, particularly if you’d prefer to train it back to the start, rather than looping it. A full kitchen and separate dining space ensure there’s ample room for everybody to unwind.

2. Kiama Haven

Kiama Haven overlooks the stunning Easts Beach.

Best for: families with teens or two-family escapes

An awesome Kiama Airbnb treated to ocean views, private gardens, three spacious bedrooms, and covered upper and lower decks (alfresco dining is a non-negotiable here), Kiama Haven is only 100 metres by foot to Easts Beach.

Bring your groceries because a fully loaded kitchen with a dishwasher and Nespresso coffee machine means languid brunching with your loved ones is a cinch. Keeping you inside longer are the multiple televisions, free-flowing Wi-Fi, reverse-cycle air conditioning, two luxurious bathrooms with heat lamps, laundry and crucial baby gear including a travel cot and booster seat for meals.

That fabulous Kiama Coast Walk is right at your doorstep, so venturing out is also appealing. Plus, the owners throw in a trail bike, making two-wheeling it around town also very tempting.

3. Santa Barbara on Bombo Beach

views of Bombo Beach on the balcony of Santa Barbara villa, Kiama

The Santa Barbara villa comes with jaw-dropping views of Bombo Beach.

Best for: groups and fur parents

Prefer holidaying with your four-legged pal? Santa Barbara on Bombo Beach has your name on it. An awesome villa with jaw-dropping views of Bombo Beach, the Kiama Airbnb’s outdoor hot tub sets the scene for serious holiday fun. Pets are welcome upon request, and the southern end of Bombo Beach is an off-leash dog-friendly zone, so conditions are perfect for them.

Additionally, it’s right around the corner from the Historic Terrace Houses – an area with a bunch of quaint cafes and boutique shops. The stay’s three-bedroom, two-bathroom layout hosts up to eight guests and is only a five-minute walk to central Kiama.

4. Minnamurra Beach House

two sun loungers by the river with a wine bottle on the table at Minnamurra Beach House

Relax on the Minnamurra River with a glass of wine.

Best for: nature lovers and ocean frolicking

Located at the mouth of the Minnamurra River, Minnamurra Beach House is a sublime pick on the river banks with its own private boat ramp. If it’s high tide, grab a kayak (they’re provided) and paddle up to mangroves or around Rangoon Island. If it’s low tide, shallow wading waters are naturally created, making for pure idyllic splashy play.

The house itself (originally built in the 1950s and renovated a few years back) features three bedrooms (sleeping up to four guests comfortably), two bathrooms, a laundry and a fully equipped kitchen. There are also two dining spaces to take advantage of: one atop a boat shed and another away from the water’s edge.

A large, covered deck is accessed through the living area, creating a dreamlike environment that practically sways you with the tide. Yoga equipment is also available during your stay if you’re ready to dial up the Zen even further.

5. The Werri Shack

a living room with a fireplace at The Werri Shack, Kiama

Keep cosy by the fireplace at The Werri Shack.

Best for: families with pets

Don’t let the word “shack” deter you – The Werri Shack leans more stylish than claustrophobic. The standout Kiama Airbnb is located further back from the coastline, but its elevated vantage point offers water views so you know you’re still in gorgeous Kiama country.

Pets are welcome and the yard is fully fenced, plus there’s an off-leash zone at Werri Beach so your fur baby is sorted. Inside, generous living areas and hipster furnishings across this double-storey, three-bedroom, two-bathroom abode will sort humans out, too.

Bonus inclusions span the Sonos sound system, unlimited Wi-Fi, PlayStation and table tennis.

6. Dovecote

The architectural marvel is perched on 60 hectares of farmland facing the ocean.

Best for: architecture nuts and splashing out

Two phenomenal properties set on 150 acres create Dovecote in Gerringong. A one-of-a-kind Kiama homestay that took out the Housing Industry Association’s Australian House of the Year award in 2019, the property is an architectural marvel offering guests luxury digs while immersed in nature.

Sleeping up to eight people across four generously sized bedrooms, The Headland is one of this property’s two options, offering unsurpassed ocean and rural landscape views. On the other hand, there’s The Range, a more intimate two-bedroom design that’s suited to couples and small families seeking indoor fireplace cosiness overlooking green pastures.

Features across both include private pools and decks, while the larger option throws in a gym, games room and an enclosed courtyard and the smaller provides a freestanding bath sent straight from your weekend-away dreams. Both houses are just metres from the Kiama Coast Walk and Werri Beach.

7. Dales Run

scenic hill views from the Kiama Airbnb at Dales Run

Enjoy bucolic views.

Best for: living your ultimate farm life

A staggeringly beautiful Kiama Airbnb that sweeps up mountains and rolling green hills before setting your gaze across the ocean, Dales Run is an outstanding choice for special occasion escapes. Sleeping up to four guests across two bedrooms (but just one bathroom, it’s worth noting), the stay features an outdoor shower and infrared sauna, while wellness warriors will similarly delight in the yoga mats and virtual classes provided.

Other features include a fireplace, laundry facilities, air conditioning, a Bose sound system, books, board games, Wi-Fi, a work-from-anywhere nook, a fully equipped kitchen and drip coffee making facilities. Plus, you’re located in Jamberoo so controlling the action at Jamberoo Action Park is just a quick zip up the road.

8. Kiama Home

the Kiama Home Airbnb opening up to scenic views

The floor-to-ceiling glass doors open out to 180-degree ocean views.

Best for: Several families and elevated views

Targeting fun-chasing kids and those who remain forever young-at-heart, this Kiama home is filled with 1980s arcade games (PacMan, anybody?) and a pinball machine. The two-level, three-bedroom property is spacious enough to house eight guests while 180-degree views across the ocean never fail to take your breath away (just add floor-to-ceiling glass doors to really highlight that dazzling scene).

Downstairs, it’s all about relaxed open-plan living as a full kitchen, lounge and dining area means there are separate zones for everyone. Upstairs contains all the bedding, including a well-considered kids’ room with a queen bottom bunk and king single top bunk, plus a kids’ single trundle bed.

When it’s time to explore beyond your stay, strolling into the centre of town takes 15 minutes tops.

9. Onyx Loft

a look inside the Onyx Loft, Kiama Airbnb

Wake up to scenic hillside views at Onyx Loft.

Best for: couples searching for romance

Escape to a private Gerringong hideaway with incredible views that stretch all the way to the ocean. The two-person-friendly Onyx Loft is perched on the side of a hill within a 60-acre farm, so your neighbours are yonks away. Cosy inclusions span a private courtyard, fire pit and barbecue, while a kitchenette with a microwave and convention oven will fix any home-prepared meal gestures. A Nespresso coffee machine means your morning must is on hand without stepping foot outside, and a TV at the foot of the bed will drag you right back in there without a second thought.

10. La Terrasse

a modern room interior with scenic views from the balcony at La Terrasse, Kiama

Sit back and take in the views from the living area.

Best for: families and groups of friends

La Terrasse is a modern split-level home, centrally located within a quick dash to Surf Beach and the Manning Street shopping and cafe precinct. The three-bedroom Kiama Airbnb accommodates up to seven guests with three bedrooms, two ensuite bathrooms and a separate one, and two car parks. The stars of the show are its full-width balcony with ocean-facing views and large entertaining patio. It’s not a party pad since it’s located in a residential area, making it a good choice for travellers in need of serious downtime with a view.

11. Tiny Kiama

The cutest home in Kiama boasts an Instagrammable interior.

Best for: couples and anybody who’s keen to escape crowded scenes

Closer to the stunning Kiama bush more so than frothy waves, Tiny Kiama can’t be ignored due to its overwhelming cuteness. While remaining close to the centre of town (it’s about a five-minute drive to Terralong Street), this two-level Kiama Airbnb is tucked up a hill, boasting an itty-bitty veranda and outdoor table, a loft bedroom fitted with a queen bed, a projector to stream app-based programs, a full bathroom and a kitchenette. While two adults will squeeze beautifully into this gem, a sofa bed can also accommodate a child if young families are keen to embark on cherished togetherness.

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A weekend woven around wellness at Stand Tall Retreats