Most people visit Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges for a weekend of relaxation and rejuvenation. What I didn't count on during my recent weekend in spa country was that it would be more of a detox than I'd expected.
Daylesford and Hepburn Springs is just a short 90 minutes from Melbourne, unless a bout of "Melbourne 2016" hits you. Having never experienced gastroenteritis before, I was in for a world of pain.
Thankfully I was afforded an early check-in at Saltus Luxury Accommodation where I promptly crashed out on the couch. Never have I been so pleased for such comfortable surrounds when feeling so poorly.
Saltus is situated in Hepburn Springs, the neighbouring village of Daylesford and just moments to Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. The architect designed villas with a handsome timber façade blend beautifully with the woodland setting and overlooking Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve.
I self-checkin to villa 1 using the easy text message instructions from the owners. I discover a beautiful, light filled, open plan space large enough to move right in. The lounge room has a large modular lounge prominently in front of the fireplace and large screen TV for maximum comfort and with remote control in hand, I'm never leaving.
The full kitchen means you can self cater and enjoy a quiet night in. It's worth picking up some gourmet essentials prior, as breakfast provisions aren't included in your stay, however a bottle of Hepburn Springs Mineral Water and local plunger coffee are left for your enjoyment. There's an elegant dining table as well as outdoor setting if the weather permits alfresco dining.
Sleeping on the cloud like bed is a pleasure and electric blankets are a novelty for this Queenslander. The luxurious bathroom boasts a mosaic feature wall and a stunning two person freestanding bath with Serendipity amenities. Heated floors, heated towel rails and the sun streaming through the picture window in the morning make for a warming start to the day.
Then the morning took another unexpected turn, my mobile phone suddenly shut down and with no WiFi in the villa (NBN hasn't arrived to Daylesford yet) I'm plunged into a digital detox. I manage through the morning and enjoy the peacefulness of being un-contactable as I browse Vincent Street. Bromley & Co is a treasure trove of art and collectables, G Daylesford has a unique collection of ethical, artisan and bespoke wears and Daylesford Apothecary has plenty of magical and medicinal wares.
My morning sans smart phone is a reminder how reliant I've become of technology and a good test. Am I ready for a more permanent digital detox? Have you tried a digital detox, a day, even a weekend perhaps? How did you feel?
Separated from my phone and leaving the world beyond, allows me to explore the region with a new sense of freedom. Checkin at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa for a day of pampering, browse Daylesford main street for homewares and enjoy a peaceful coffee in one of the charming cafes feels so carefree.
Hepburn Springs is the ideal destination for a detox, whether that's a health detox or a digital detox it's a relaxing location to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul.
Saltus Luxury Accommodation
119 Main Rd, Hepburn Springs VIC 461
Book Saltus Luxury Accommodation here.
