March 15, 2023 | By Graeme Kemlo
Down on the Bellarine Peninsula, on 200 acres overlooking the ocean is a corporate retreat where the mantra is “slow down”, but it could just as easily be “accelerate your team”.
Lon Retreat is a property that has been in the same family since the late 19th century, over seven generations, and it’s now being shared, with one of its key assets its natural sparkling mineral springs.
With a renaissance in hot springs across Victoria – mostly along its coastline – the adults-only Lon Retreat is unique in offering a private boutique hotel and spa, ideal for small corporate retreats. Seven individually designed suites can accommodate 16 for a residential team building stay. But the property also offers a versatile range of event space, indoors and outside, should corporate needs extend to a larger daytime event.
The owners, Claire and Rob Gemes, believe the healing waters are a key attraction, given there are only seven such mineral springs facilities in Victoria at the moment.
What was a luxury bed and breakfast was redeveloped and reopened in 2018 as Lon Retreat and stands out for its indoor heated mineral spa pool, its water filtered through layers of limestone on which the property stands.
Lon Retreat also operates a range of pampering spa experiences in three private treatment rooms, sauna and steam room. Treatments range from facials to full body massages or mineral soaks – some suites have bathtubs that can also be filled from the hot mineral spring.
To further feed the soul the property offers places to soak in the views of ships plying Bass Strait while bush walks through Moonah forests and the ocean are close by.
The body is also well fed as the Bellarine is a renowned food bowl and wine production area and Lon offers grazing platters for you and your team. The retreat will also gladly point out nearby culinary experiences including dining and winery visits.
