Australasian Leisure Management
Jul 2, 2023

Luxury hot springs resort approved for development at the 12 Apostles

The development of a luxury hot springs resort has been approved for leading Victorian tourist attraction - the 12 Apostles – with the resort to deliver a natural bathing experience along with multiple food and beverage outlets.

The 12 Apostles Hot Springs and Resort is anticipated to soon become home to Australia’s largest hot springs experience offering 150 private eco-pods for accommodation and over 70 private and public baths and spa treatments which will seek to capitalise on the restorative properties of the mineral bathing.

The site has the unique benefit of a hot thermal mineral spring through the property, approximately 1km below the ground. This sets it apart from other famed Victorian bathing operations, like Hepburn Springs, which are artificially heated. As a result, the project team believes the resort is likely to attract eco- tourists looking to embrace the benefits of hot spring bathing.

The project is being delivered by a team of developers led by Don Musto of Rocdon along with Naomi Gregory, Founder and Principle Consultant at Spa Sessions, who has been involved in the creation of the project.

Gregory shares “this is a unique destinational experience. The idea of driving down the Great Ocean Road, arriving at The 12 Apostles and then very close by having an opportunity to explore a world-class facility that has geo-thermal bathing for nourishment, checking into a beautifully designed eco pod - I see this as being the premium bathing location in the country.”

Thermal hot spring bathing offers a myriad of benefits for both the mind and body. Geothermally heated water increases blood circulation, which can alleviate muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of various ailments such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. The buoyancy of the water also provides gentle support to the body, relieving pressure on joints and allowing for greater ease of movement.

Additionally, hot springs are rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sulphur, which can be absorbed through the skin during bathing. These minerals have been known to have therapeutic effects, aiding in the detoxification of the body, improving skin health, and even boosting the immune system. The mineral-rich waters can also help in improving the overall appearance of the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and rejuvenated.

Gregory adds “traditionally hot springs have been associated with places like Japan and Europe but Australia has seen an enormous renaissance on natural bathing. People are craving a natural experience outside of their cities.”

The project is targeting a 2026 opening - if all goes according to plan.

Images. Concepts of resort supplied

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