EVIDENCE-BASED
WELLNESS
RETREATS
IN VICTORIA
Getaways for people who want wellness, without the waffle.
- Weekend & 7-day retreats in Benalla, Victoria
- Run by actual healthcare professionals
- Float therapy, aerial yoga, massage, medical-grade red light, reformer pilates
- Miniature goats who don’t judge your life choices
- Comes with a Feel Good Guarantee — shift from high-alert to deep-rest in a single weekend
2 Minute Quiz
Five quick questions
Quick quiz to match you with the perfect retreat. Answer 5 simple questions about your wellness goals, energy levels, and what you need right now. No email required, instant recommendations.Tailor to Your Needs
Personalised recommendations
Get retreat recommendations based on what you actually need — whether that's burnout recovery, trying new wellness treatments, wildlife experiences, or simply disconnecting and resting. Your retreat, your rules.No Woo-Woo
Evidence-based wellness
All treatments are backed by research and run by qualified healthcare professionals. Float therapy, medical-grade red light, physio-led classes — real wellness that actually works, not pseudoscience.
Retreat
WELLNESS RETREATS VICTORIA
Rustic-luxe recovery on a working wildlife shelter, 2 hours North East of Melbourne. Evidence-based treatments and movement to help you reset your nervous system and remember how to feel good again.
Everything is included. Everything is optional.
Do as little or as much as you feel.
Burnt out. Travelling solo. Slightly sceptical of anything that promises to "change your life"?You're who we built this for. Decision-free getaways that are not too big, not too small — 10 cozy cabins so you can retreat to your own private space as needed.
No welcome circles. No chanting. No crystals or forced "sharing." We offer solid science, restorative food, 80s anthems, really good teachers, and the occasional "roo poo" situation.
For the thoroughly exhausted and the wellness-jaded. We're here to help you find your baseline again — with proper coffee and zero judgment. We've got you.
Tell Us What You Need →
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE CALM
Every therapy at Little Farm of Calm is selected for its evidence base, not its Instagram appeal. Between them, Jill (AHPRA Physiotherapist, MSc Melbourne, 1000hr RYT) and Darren (ESSA-accredited Exercise Physiologist) bring 50 combined years of healthcare experience to every retreat decision. If the science isn’t there, it doesn’t make it onto the program.
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Floatation Therapy
Learn about float therapyAll retreats include sessions in our magnesium salt floatation and sensory deprivation tank — designed to switch off your senses, give your nervous system complete rest and dissolve muscle tension.
From just 1–2 sessions across a weekend, you may sleep more deeply and feel noticeably calmer. Regular float therapy has been linked to reductions in stress, anxiety, blood pressure, chronic pain and sleep disorders.
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Red Light Therapy
Learn about red light therapyMedical-grade whole-body red light therapy is included in all retreat packages. Associated with dermatology and skin health, it also penetrates deeper to target cellular recovery — used clinically for mood, sleep disorders, wound healing, joint pain and muscle recovery. Even adopted by NASA.
From your first session you might feel relaxed, glowing and restored. Every person is different — if you can, jump in more than once.
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Animal Therapy
Meet the animalsResearch shows time with animals and in nature replicates similar brain wave effects to deep meditation — because animals demand full presence and temporarily disable your internal chatter.
We offer all levels of access to our hand-reared therapy animals. Whether you'd prefer to watch from behind a fence or immerse yourself in full goat-antics mode, we've got you. We're probably the only wellness retreat in Victoria to have goats on the program.
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Mineral Soak & Hydrotherapy
See what's includedTake your relaxation to the next level in our heated hydrotherapy spa — complete with medical-grade massage jets and mineral salts that dissolve tension and ease you into a state of deep rest.
Too warm? Step straight into our 75m² magnesium salt pool or cold plunge for the full contrast therapy experience. Winter invigoration guaranteed.
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Infrared Sauna Treatments
Learn about infrared saunaClinical studies link infrared sauna use to improved cardiac health, reduced chronic pain, faster muscle recovery, deeper REM sleep, lowered cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugars, boosted metabolism and protection against the degenerative effects of ageing.
Yes, it's hot — but stepping out you'll feel invigorated and recharged. And because we have two private saunas, you can do it again tomorrow.
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Physio-Led Yoga, Pilates & Myofascial Release
See the full retreat scheduleOur retreat schedule uses evidence-based movement to relieve aches and pains, relax tight muscles and target common niggles — you might find yourself capable of more than you thought.
Sessions include aerial yoga (yin and flow), reformer pilates and myofascial release workshops. Retreats also include time in our Zen Room with state-of-the-art massage chairs targeting from your neck to the soles of your feet.
All sessions range from low to moderate intensity and are led by teachers from healthcare backgrounds — physiotherapy, exercise physiology, rehabilitation programming and elite coaching.
All six therapies are included in every retreat package. No extras. No hidden costs. Led by Jill Mentiplay (AHPRA Physiotherapist · MSc, University of Melbourne · 1000hr RYT) and Darren Mentiplay (ESSA-accredited Exercise Physiologist) — 50 combined years of healthcare experience, and a shared conviction that if it doesn’t have a proven benefit for your recovery, it doesn’t belong on the program.
On the grounds of Little Farm
Australia's most unlikely
farm stay feature
A licensed wildlife shelter operating on-site, home to up to 60 rescued native animals — wallabies, wombats, possums and kangaroo joeys among them. Come curious. Leave completely undone, possibly in love and maybe even with a new sense of purpose in life (that's how it started for us!)
Over 5,400 animals rescued.
You can be part of this.
Every stay directly funds the shelter — no government grants, no corporate sponsors. Good for you. Vital for them.
2 Minutes
Five quick questions
Personalised
Tailored to your needs
No Woo-Woo
Evidence-based wellness
FIRST UP, WHERE
ARE YOU AT?
No wrong answer — this just helps us meet you where you are.
Which of these sounds
most like you?
We want to make sure we're speaking to exactly where you're at right now. Choose up to three that apply.
What's drawing you
to a retreat?
How long would you like
your escape to be?
What sounds most
appealing?
What rhythm feels
right for you?
Who's joining you?
What's your biggest concern about coming on a
retreat with Little Farm of Calm?
Ready to feel
the difference?
Everything is included. Everything is optional. Do as much or as little as you feel.
VIEW DATES & BOOK →We'll call you — no pitch, just answers
Leave your number and a time that suits and we'll give you a ring. No obligation, no sales script — just a real conversation.
Little Farm of Calm
Our guests come for the science. They stay for the animals. Most say they ended up needing both.
How many wellness breaks offer the opportunity to live alongside, cuddle and bottle-feed kangaroo joeys, wombats and goats? Jill and Darren are down-to-earth, warm and welcoming hosts. Food was delicious, plentiful and nutritious — and the floatation tank, red light therapy and massage chairs were a brilliant addition we enjoyed on several occasions. Absolute best time!
Fabulous break! The aerial yoga, reformer session and myofascial workshop were brilliant — tailored for total beginners or those with experience. The sauna and infra-red therapy were great, and the pool worked perfectly as a cold therapy session. Jill and Darren were brilliant hosts and instructors, the food was tasty and plentiful, and the animals were super cute. Can't wait to go back.
Little Farm of Calm really lives up to its name. The peaceful ambiance, adorable animals, cosy rooms, and engaging activities like reformer pilates, aerial yoga, and bike rides make it the ultimate escape for relaxation. What truly sets this place apart is the hosts' remarkable dedication to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. If you're considering a weekend break, I couldn't recommend it enough!
An amazing, unique escape — they really do stand out, and I've been to a few. It's difficult to cater to everyone's needs, yet this place does a great job. So much on offer, all done in a space of tranquility. Jill and Darren are truly awesome people, which is why I'm happy to write this review (I rarely do), why I will be spreading the word, and most importantly — why I will be going back.
Just what I needed to re-charge and pause on my somewhat hectic existence. Super cosy accommodation, fantastic activities and yummy food. Would highly recommend and will certainly return. Insider tip: Enjoy the option of doing as much or as little as is on offer. Aerial Yoga by Jill is AMAZING!!
An excellent weekend in beautiful surroundings. A genuine chance to recharge and try new things — aerial yoga, red light therapy, floatation tank, and goat happy hour. Jill and Darren went above and beyond to make this a wonderful experience for everyone. I came away feeling really refreshed and better than I had in a while.
CHOOSE YOUR PERFECT RETREAT
Quick reboot, genuine reset, or full recharge? The difference between these retreats is outcomes, not just nights. Wherever you’re at — time, energy, budget — pick the retreat that works for you. A weekend of recovery beats another month of same-same.
FEEL GOOD GUARANTEE
At Little Farm of Calm, we want every guest to leave feeling lighter than when they arrived. We are so confident in our space, our teachers, and our nourishing food that we back every retreat with our Feel Good Guarantee.
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Real-Time Resolution
If any aspect of your stay isn't meeting expectations — from your room to the retreat schedule — please tell us immediately during the retreat. This gives us the opportunity to fix the issue, move your room, or adjust your experience in the moment.
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The Farm Reality Acknowledgement
Little Farm of Calm is a farm and wildlife shelter — not a luxury spa and resort. Wildlife (including kangaroos), dust during dry seasons, mud when it rains, and communal living courtesies (such as popping your plates in the dishwasher or wiping down the red light bed after use) are a low-effort part of the experience that helps us keep the high value in what we offer — and are not grounds for a refund.
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Your Retreat, Your Way
Think of the program as a tasting menu — not everything will be your cup of tea, and that's fine. Skip it, sit it out, do your own thing. No guilt, no judgement. Opting out of activities is not grounds for a refund.
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Safety First
If you have any concerns about hygiene or our wellness facilities, please let us know straight away so our team can walk you through how everything is cared for and address it on the spot.
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Active Participation
The guarantee applies to guests who have engaged with the retreat program. It doesn't extend to choosing to leave early, or to situations arising from outside the retreat itself.
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Raise It Before You Leave
This guarantee applies to concerns raised with our team during your stay. Once you've completed your retreat and left the property without raising a concern, the guarantee no longer applies.
The spirit of this guarantee is simple: we want to know if something isn't right so we can fix it while you're still here. We'd rather resolve it on the spot than have you leave unhappy. Just talk to us.
EVERYTHING THAT'S INCLUDED
Accommodation, all meals, float therapy, physio-led aerial yoga, red light therapy, reformer pilates, massage, infrared sauna, mineral spa, wildlife experiences, and mini-goat happy hour — all included in every package. No extras, no upsells.
The best value wellness retreat in Australia — and the only one with a Feel Good Guarantee.-
Accommodation
Private cabins with ensuite. All rooms include comfy beds, luxe linens, heating/cooling, TV with Netflix, hair dryers, and blue-light free lighting for better sleep.
Accommodation FAQ -
All Meals
Nutritious, delicious meals 3× daily. Real food that's actually healthy, with proper coffee when you need it.
Food FAQ -
Float Therapy
Magnesium salt hydrotherapy in our float tanks. Research-backed relaxation, nervous system reset, and muscle recovery.
Floatation FAQ -
Aerial Yoga
Physio-led aerial yoga sessions. Decompress your spine, build strength, increase flexibility — all levels welcome. Led by AHPRA-registered physiotherapist and 1000hr RYT Jill Mentiplay.
All about Aerial Yoga -
Red Light Therapy
Medical-grade red light therapy sessions. Evidence-based treatment for inflammation reduction, skin health, and cellular recovery.
RLT FAQ -
Reformer Pilates
Physio-led Reformer Pilates workshops designed to strengthen, stretch, and make you feel good. Suitable for all levels — led by AHPRA-registered physiotherapist Jill Mentiplay.
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Massage & Bodywork
State-of-the-art massage chairs in the zen room and a myofascial release workshop. Practical techniques to self-manage common niggles — leave feeling loose as a goose.
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Infrared Sauna
Private infrared sauna sessions. Detox, relax, and boost circulation in your own time — or combine with cold plunge for full evidence-based contrast therapy benefits.
Why Sauna? -
Mineral Spa & Pool
Heated mineral spa, swimming pool, and cold plunge pool. Hydrotherapy at your own pace, available throughout your stay.
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Supporting Native Wildlife
Learn about our DEECA-licensed wildlife rescue work. Optional opportunities to assist with animals in care — or join a 7-day Wellness, Wildlife & Yoga Retreat to volunteer with the shelter.
Wildlife Retreats -
Plus More
Guided bike tour of Lake Benalla, self-defence workshop (Tony Blauer system), mulled wine by the firepit — all included. Do as little or as much as you feel.
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Mini-Goat Happy Hour
Hang out with our miniature goats. They don't judge your life choices and they're excellent listeners.
Everything is Included. Everything is Optional.
Feel like doing everything? Great. Feel like doing nothing? Also great. Your retreat, your rules. We're here to support whatever you need.
Little Farm of Calm · Upcoming Dates
WHEN CAN YOU ESCAPE?
Pick a date, pack light, and leave the rest to us.
Where is
Little Farm of Calm?
121 Grant Drive, Benalla 3672
Our Victorian Wellness Retreat & Event centre is an easy 2 hour drive or train trip from Melbourne - once you get on the Hume Hwy you are 2 turns away. We offer station pick up & drop off so you can sit back and relax!
We are located in a rural area, yet only 6 mins away from Benalla which features cafes, shops, chemists and supermarkets. If you are feeling active that becomes a 15 minute bike ride.
What's on the Table
Food &
Dietary
We take the food seriously. We just don't take ourselves that way. Here's what you need to know before you pack your appetite.
Your Questions, Answered
What kind of food can I expect?
Honest, homestyle cooking — good ingredients, real flavours, made with care. The menu rotates with the seasons: hearty curries, soups and bowl dishes in cooler months; lighter plates when it warms up. We source locally where we can and cook everything in-house.
There'll always be at least one main that's gluten free and vegetarian, with add-on options for those who eat meat or dairy. This isn't a private chef operation and we've never claimed to be — but we do care about what lands on your plate.
What meals are included?
All meals from Friday dinner through to Sunday breakfast (7am–11am). Breakfast is self-serve buffet — cereals, fresh bread, fruit, yoghurt, condiments, tea, coffee and DIY eggs. Lunch and dinner are served meals that change with the season.
On longer 4-day and 7-day breaks, the same pattern runs across the full duration.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Most of the time, yes — provided you give us enough notice.
Please be specific — gluten free and coeliac are not the same thing in a kitchen, and we cook accordingly. The more detail you give us, the better we can prepare.
We can't provide individually personalised catering for every possible combination of restrictions — this is group farm cooking, not private dining. But we'll always make sure there's something genuinely good on your plate. If you have a highly specific palate, you're also welcome to bring some of your own preferred food — the guest kitchen has a fridge, microwave, air fryer and toaster oven.
What if I have a severe food allergy?
Contact us directly before booking at [email protected] — don't leave it in the booking notes field and hope for the best. We'd rather have an honest conversation upfront and make sure we can genuinely look after you, than have you arrive on Friday to find out we can't.
Acknowledgement of Country
Little Farm of Calm Benalla is in Yorta Yorta Country.
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land and pay our respects to the Elders of Yorta Yorta clans past, present and future - for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of Aboriginal Australia. We will always remember that this land is, was and always will be traditional Aboriginal land.