Bannisters Port Stephens

A day of wellness, yes please! That's what the invitation to Bannisters Port Stephens newest addition promised, and deliver it did. Spa Bannisters is the luxurious new addition to the boutique hotel, and with the invitation accepted, I had my facial treatment and massage booked quick smart, with my well-planned day of wellness going like this...

7am - Rise and shine

I began my morning with a slow walk up Tomaree Head to soak in some much-needed sunshine and those stunning 360 coastal views. Helpful hint for first-time climbers, you can take a breath halfway up, the lookout matches the summit in beauty and you can also refill the water bottle.

8:30am – Freshen Up

With plenty of time before my spa booking I took a quick dip in the ocean before changing into my comfy clothes and enjoying a l-o-n-g light breakfast in Shoal Bay.

10am - Spa time! 

Nestled in amongst the garden and trees at the northern end of the hotel, the beautifully designed spa space features rooms for couples and singles, with some of the rooms even starring an outdoor shower.

Arriving a few minutes early I had time to relax and enjoy a cup (or two) of their Spring Time Tea, before being lead past the circular wall, the holy grail of products.

The Spa menu is designed similarly to the accompanying Rick Stein restaurant, evolving with the seasons, and on offer at moment their first Menu – Spring, which is a refreshing delight! 

I took the invigorating 'AHA Rejuvenate Peel' option, also known as the ‘pick me up’ facial, it was 30 minutes of pure facial heaven.

Using only Australian organic products the spa invites you to take a well-deserved moment and treat yourself to some self-care treatments from head to toe encompassing massage, facials, and manis.

And just because I deserved to be pampered a little bit more I signed myself up to the 'Sweet Dreams' massage. A dreamy 90 minutes of essential oils and relaxed style massage designed to relax you into a much-needed state of rest.