When it comes to day spas, the new outpost of BODHI in Yallingup certainly ticks all the boxes. Luxe treatments, a sauna, a yoga studio, a relaxation zone and 12 beds of spa bliss await, says Lisa Perkovic.
We’re four hours south of Perth, tucked into the Margaret River region’s hinterland. Less than ten minutes away is the Indian Ocean, and within throwing distance are world-class wineries dotted up and down the west coast.
It’s an easy drive south of Perth to this magical part of Western Australia. Between the water and the vineyards are towering Marri trees, coastal scrub and scruffy Australian farmland. When BODHI Yallingup’s smooth white exterior appears, peeking out between the gum trees around a bend in the road, it pops out as a pocket of paradise I’m keen to explore.
With six treatment rooms (and a total of 12 beds), it’s not a tiny space, but the clever design gives the building a low profile that organically weaves into the landscape. Being close to nature is a big part of the philosophy of BODHI for founders Tania and Danny Taylor. This is their sixth BODHI spa, and here in Yallingup, according to Tanya, the focus is on building a retreat that works in harmony with its natural surroundings.
The spa runs on solar power and a 220 thousand-litre rainwater tank. The relaxation zone looks straight out over Lake Gunyulgup, with glass sliding doors opening to a wraparound balcony where we curl up on oversized outdoor lounges and sip herbal tea.
Book in, bliss out
Booked for the day’s first appointment, I linger almost until lunchtime on the relaxation deck, where guests are encouraged to soak up the sounds of the bush from comfy armchairs. Then the pampering begins. I start by soaking in a hydrotherapy spa bath before basking in the glow of the morning sun during a 90-minute massage. High ceiling-to-floor windows with sheer gauze curtains my treatment room let natural light in. The bird chorus is my soundtrack. And even with closed eyes, I can sense the light shifting as clouds pass overhead. It’s re-energizing yet relaxing in a calm setting; you can’t help but let your worries go.
Later in the day, I settled in for a Sodashi Hydrate Renewal Facial + LED Therapy treatment. This is the most decadence your face could ever wish for. Layers of deep hydration through masks, compresses, and facial massages. Then aided by a 30-minute light therapy that gives a boost that promises to keep your skin glowing by stimulating collagen and blood circulation.
Dusk descends while I’m being pampered, the light muting as the sun tints the sky shades of pink. Kangaroos are almost at the front door at dusk, nibbling on the grass and scrubbing. Birds flit between the trees, chattering as they go. In the relaxation lounge, I watch the kangaroos find their way down to the lake, choosing the subtle change of hour to see their favourite spots by the water.
Yin to yang
If BODHI Yallingup is a study in soft, natural tones with light-filled spaces, next door’s Artisan Yallingup chalets are the polar opposite. Artisan has two luxury villas – Gunyulgup and Koorabin. They’re sleek and modern, with concrete floors, dark cosy couches, a wood fireplace and black wall panelling. With floor-to-ceiling windows and doors open to an al fresco area and the lake beyond.
With firewood and decanter provided, plenty of dishes and platters for dining, an impressive collection of board games, and even a Tesla charger for those who need it, Artisan certainly sets the scene for a bit of laid-back luxury. Come evening, we stoke the fire and assemble a charcuterie board to eat. Local red wine is poured into the elaborate decanter that adds an extra special touch.
Even better, while the spa and villas are owned separately, only manicured lawn separates the two. So, it’s easy to skip between your new Margaret River region home and the relaxation on offer just next door. I’m happy to skip the logistics of parking or navigating. And even more delighted to stroll back to a waiting glass of wine by the fire with my hair slicked back and my face glossy post-treatment.
As the sun dips behind the eucalyptus trees and the kangaroos come out to dine, we settle in and enjoy the feeling of being blissed out. And with stay and pamper packages soon to come, we know we’ll be back.
Artisan has two luxury villas – Gunyulgup and Koorabin © Artisan Yallingup
Lisa Perkovic was the guest of BODHI Yallingup.
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