5 PLACES TO FIND YOUR ZEN ON THE GOLD COAST

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Come and playIn a world full of distractions it’s natural to want to escape the norm, our routines and familiar sights. For those looking to do exactly that, the Gold Coast offers a mecca of natural and man-made locations to let you sit back, relax and enjoy all the fabulous things in life.

So if you’re a peace and quiet lover and seeking serenity, read on for 5 of the best Gold Coast experiences in Tallebudgera Valley and surrounds.

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burleigh head national park

Dust temple

Green Marquee Twilight Market

currumbin beach

freeman’s organic farm

gwinganna lifestyle retreat

coolangatta

Surfers paradise

Take a stroll around Burleigh Head National ParkFor a walk that highlights the best land and seascape views of both Tallebudgera, Burleigh and beyond, look no further than the natural headland in Burleigh Head National Park. With two trail options – one slightly more challenging than the other – you can be in the thick of the rainforest’s lush vegetation or viewing the Gold Coast from an elevated vantage point in just minutes… all without paying a cent.

SOUTHERN ACCESSAccessible from the car park just before Tallebudgera Bridge, south of Jellurgul Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

NORTHERN ACCESSEntry via the top car park on Goodwin Terrace in Burleigh Heads.

OCEAN VIEW WALKThe Ocean View Walk is an easy 1.3km (one way) trail that’s not too taxing on the body and offers spectacular views of the seaway entrance or ‘mouth’ of Tallebudgera Creek and neighbouring coastline of Palm Beach. Not to mention stunning vistas of Burleigh all the way to Surfers Paradise. If you’re keen to stop for a swim, swing a right at the fork at about 5-10 minutes into your walk via this south Tallebudgera Creek entrance to visit the secluded Echo Beach. Or opt for the patrolled Lifeguard area at Burleigh Heads Beach at the opposite end.

RAINFOREST CIRCUITRegardless of what entrance you start at, the Rainforest Circuit (2.3km return) is one that reaps great reward. Take on the challenge of around 100 steps and several gradual inclined paths to reach a maximum elevation of 74 metres, stopping at Tumgun Lookout on the way. Here you’ll find a small viewing platform with magnificent unobtrusive views of the southern Gold Coast. While you stand and take it all in, you may also be lucky enough to see local birdlife, lizards and even whales (generally from June to October) frolicking in the distance.

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Relax and restore at Gwinganna Lifestyle RetreatTucked away in the lesser-known hinterland region of Tallebudgera Valley lies 200 hectares of pure relaxation bliss. We’re talking about the one and only Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat.

Not only does this renowned wellness retreat and spa ooze both luxury and simplicity, but it’s also ecotourism certified and guaranteed (well, we certainly think so) to help rid you of all stresses; soothe the soul and find your inner zen.

Welcomed by surrounding ocean and valley views that span from Moreton Bay to Coolangatta, the retreat is also equipped with a number of wellness programs, activities and room styles to suit all tastes. Choose from Billabong Villas on the water to quaint Heritage Cottages and dedicated Meditation Suites amongst the trees. Holding rank as the largest spa in the Southern Hemisphere, the 33 indoor and outdoor room Spa Sanctuary with elevated outdoor deck and lounge area is also a beautiful sight to behold on the property.

For those looking for a wellness retreat that’s different from the rest, Gwinganna offers a separate range of small and extended stay packages to help you totally disconnect from the wider world and change bad daily habits such as smoking or assist those looking to improve physical health and weight loss. An average day includes daily wake-ups to watch the sunrise and practise Qi Gong (a type of meditation), right after a guided hike or walk before breakfast, followed by the rest of the day partaking in yoga and a hosted wellness seminar with organic meals throughout. It’s the ultimate relaxation haven to leave you feeling on top of the world.

Oh, and if you weren’t already convinced… Australian icon himself, Hugh Jackman is also a part-owner in this luxe Gold Coast oasis, so we know we’re onto a good thing.

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Dine and browse local and international art at Dust TempleChecking out of Tallebudgera Valley and into Currumbin Valley you’ll certainly find another local hidden gem or two. To check out one that’s at the top of our list, jump in the car and head to Dust Temple – an eclectic arts space that hosts and showcases a number of local, national and international artists.

Transformed in 2013 from an old warehouse in the small industrial area on Currumbin Creek Road, Dust Temple offers a unique community space to grab your morning coffee and browse the collection of creative works on display. Sit indoors to admire the rustic architecture and all the quirky décor or cosy up on the outdoor tables roadside to watch the world go by.

Dust also holds a rolling calendar of events from local jazz singers, theatre performances and dance shows to touring local musicians and live poetry readings, so whatever time of year you choose to visit the Gold Coast, there’s bound to be something here to tickle your fancy.

Wander eco-friendly stalls at The Green Marquee Twilight Market Continuing the organic theme from Freeman’s Farm, jump back in the car and head north-east for 10 minutes, past the popular Currumbin Rock Pools to the corner of Village Way and Currumbin Creek Road. Here you’ll find Gold Coast markets and specialty events company, The Green Marquee in Currumbin’s Ecovillage.

Held every second Saturday of the month from 3-8pm, this eco-friendly twilight market is a collection of recycled fashion, homewares, art and beauty. And if that isn’t enough to convince you, there’s also live music and a range of food stalls on offer, including a small selection of gin and craft beers – all ready for you to enjoy over a beautiful sunset and early evening stars.

Sample local produce at the historic Freeman’s Organic FarmTaking the old-school roadside fruit and veggie stall to the next level, we introduce you to Freeman’s Organic Farm. With over 100 years experience in producing quality, fresh organic (and non-organic) produce, the now fourth-generation owner and hands-on farmer David Freeman continues to share his family’s passion with the local community and travellers alike.

Operating one-hour long farm tours every Sunday at 10am around the 25-acre property, visitors learn all about the impressive history of the farm (which originally started as a banana plantation), whilst taking in what is arguably some of the best views in the entire Currumbin Valley.

Located on Tomewin Road in Currumbin, Freeman’s Organic Farm is open Friday to Sunday, 7.30am to 2.30pm.

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TransportSeamless accessibility is all yours with a city that gives you metropolitan infrastructure with boutique city benefits. With smooth connectivity from two international airports, train and light rail services backed up by an abundance of transfer options, you’ll find getting just about anywhere is a breeze.

TWO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTSGold Coast International Airport: 30 minute drive to Surfers Paradise

Brisbane International Airport: 60 minute drive to Surfers Paradise

TRAIN AND LIGHT RAIL SERVICESConnecting train journey from Brisbane Airport into Gold Coast city centre. Find out more at airtrain.com.au

Gold Coast light rail (G:Link)19 major stops around the Gold Coast with frequent services running 7 days per week. The go explore card is designed for use on Translink bus, train and tram services with multiple day passes available.

Find out more at translink.com.au

TRANSFERS AND CAR HIREYou’ll find every mode of transport you’ll need on the Gold Coast with coaches, buses, luxury transfers, taxis and Uber options easily arranged. With hotels and venues in close proximity to restaurants, activities and the beach, it’s a compact city that invites you to live like a local and readily explore what’s on offer.

For more transport information and holiday inspiration, visit destinationgoldcoast.com