Digital Nomads

Much to Brett’s horror, I booked a day at the Mornington Peninsula Springs, starting at 6am. This meant getting out of bed in the dark and cold before 5am. However, as you will see, it was totally worth doing and even Brett has admitted that.

This place is on another level! Peninsula Hot Springs is a natural geothermal mineral springs and day spa set amongst picturesque natural surroundings with native flora and tranquil landscapes. It has over 70 different globally inspired bathing and wellness experiences with various thermal pools, each with unique temperatures and mineral compositions, providing different therapeutic benefits. These pools are complemented by multiple facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunge pools, allowing guests to indulge in a complete wellness experience.

We arrived, checked in and received our towels and robes for the day. The first stop was heading to the top of the property to see the sunrise. It was not an easy feat finding our way through the low-lit paths that weaved their way through the area, but we made it in time for sunrise.

We then spent the day meandering through the different experiences. There were plenty of pools nestled around the site that we enjoyed, including the Hydrojet Pool which is great for easing sore muscles and joints and others that had a range of temperatures, shapes and views. Here are some of the stand-out experiences.

Sauna and Cold Plunge

We entered the Hamam Turkish Sauna and to my surprise, I really enjoyed it. Not normally a fan of Saunas, this sauna offers a traditional Turkish bathing experience which is known for its cleansing and rejuvenating properties. The Hamam is beautifully designed with intricate tiles and a warm, inviting atmosphere.  After infusing ourselves in the steam, we had a hot massaging shower while working up the courage to enter the Cold Plunge Pool. At a temperature of 20 degrees, it didn’t sound too bad, that is until you get in and it feels like it is 5 degrees. Apparently, this rotation should be done 2-3 times, so that is what we did.

Japanese Cave Pool

The cave pool was inspired by a visit to the Japanese Alps and is tucked into the side of a hill offering a unique bathing experience set within a cave-like structure. It was a soothing and relaxing soak in a secluded and tranquil atmosphere.

Reflexology Walk

This river-like pool was inspired by traditional Chinese medicine where you are supposed to “traipse across the 10 different stones, which stimulate various acupressure points in your feet”. To be honest, it was a bit painful and not really enjoyable but at least we tried it.

Fire and Ice Experience

Now this is one that was definitely interesting. We started off in a dry sauna where we heated us up for a while, then headed to the massage showers, then into another cold pool. Similar to the last experience, however, this time we stayed in the pool for longer than 30 seconds. THEN, we did it again but this time, instead of the Cold Pool, we tried the Ice Cave! Yep, you read that right an Ice Cave. Brett didn’t want to go in at first so I had to do it by myself, but the second time I made him come in and try it. The “Ice Cave and Deep Freeze” is based on the practice of cryotherapy which includes an Ice Cave at 4 degrees and a Deep Freeze at minus 25 degrees. Needless to say, we didn’t stay long in that one!

Sound Dome

We stumbled across this one by accident and wow, I am so glad we did. It is a domed structure where you lie down on extremely comfy chairs and immerse yourself in a sound and visual experience. It uses both sound therapy techniques and visual displays to create a soothing and immersive environment. As you lay in the darkness with the only light on the curved roof, you are surrounded by speakers that emit calming sounds and music that vibrate throughout your entire body, relaxing you like you wouldn’t believe. You can close your eyes and enjoy just the sound or you can stare up to see soothing patterns and colours that are synchronised with the music and soundscapes creating a multisensory experience. This experience helped us to disconnect from the outside world and enter a state of deep relaxation and I don’t think we have experienced anything like it.

We left the Hot Springs after 6 hours of total relaxation and rejuvenation and felt that we were floating.

Tar Barrell

We ended the day with a late lunch at Tar Barrell Brewery. Brett thoroughly enjoyed the beers, finding a great porter, which he hadn’t enjoyed much at other breweries so far on this trip. I had a Gin Tasting Paddle and also enjoyed that. I am warming more and more to Gin as I find delicious local spirits around the country. The pizza, with its perfect crust and flavourful toppings, was a delightful treat and the music set the scene for an enjoyable afternoon after a relaxing morning.

I would highly recommend both of these places if you are ever in the Mornington Peninsula, we had a thoroughly enjoyable day.