Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs

A little touch of Japan, in Oz

By Angie Takanami

The ongoing economic crisis has put a strain on our work lives, home lives and even social lives. People are going out less, travelling less, and stress levels are reaching all time highs.

Having lived in Japan for the past 5 years, I have found that whenever I need to rejuvenate, a simple trip to the onsen (hot spring) is enough to help me unwind and relax. Soaking in hot natural mineral waters does wonder for the skin, body, mind and soul. I have always hoped that someone would take the idea back to Australia…

Well, someone has. Inspired by the hot springs in Japan, Charles Davidson has created the first natural onsen and day spa centre in Victoria.

Set on 17 acres in the rolling sandy dunes of 'The Cups' on the southern Mornington Peninsula, in Rye, just an hour and a half from Melbourne, Davidson wanted “to do something low impact and simple”. “What could be better than bringing hot water up from underground and having people sit in it?”. If you ask me, there’s not much that can top the relaxing qualities of an onsen.

Davidson’s Peninsula Hot Springs pumps hot mineral water from a “Sodium Chloride Bicarbonate Spring”. The water contains various natural minerals such as sulphur, calcium, magnesium and potassium among others. The sulphur content gives off a plentiful aroma, and the benefits of soaking in this kind of spring are abundant.

Guests can chose between 5 public onsen, set amongst Eucalypts Teatree and Birdsong for optimal relaxation. Additionally, there are private pools and baths and special indoor mineral baths. The service doesn’t stop there; one can indulge in massage, facials, mud, salt and stone treatments or even a natural therapeutic aromatherapy steam bath.

Local accommodation providers offer special deals to guests of Peninsula Hot Springs, and in the not so distant future the facility itself will provide luxury private 'spa lodge' style accommodation. There is also an onsite café offering light meals in a tranquil environment, where you can even eat in your bathrobe.
Everything you need to relax is on offer at Peninsula Hot Springs. You will leave feeling like a new person, ready to take on life with a rejuvenated enthusiasm.
Wether you are on tour with the family, wanting a romantic escape with your partner, or just need some time out to unwind, you will find what you are looking for at Peninsula Hot Springs.


Essential Information:

Hours: The centre is open from 7:30am-10pm daily, except Christmas Day.
Pricing: General bathing starts at $25 for adults. For full rates and packages, visit Peninsula Hot Springs Website.

Bookings: It is requested that bookings are made 4-6 weeks in advance, except for those wishing to use only the public baths/pools.

Email: relax@peninsulahotsprings.com
WEB: www.peninsulahotsprings.com
Tel: 03-5950-8777, Intl +61-3-5950-8777
Address: Springs Lane (formerly Devonport Drive), Rye, 3941, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia.