Set within 22 acres of rainforest and framed by striking contemporary architecture, this five-day retreat unfolds in a serene environment designed for rest and renewal and exploration of this unique and hugely biodiverse subtropical environment. Soma Byron Bay is purpose-built for wellbeing, with exquisite grounds and considered spaces that naturally encourage a slower, more spacious rhythm.

With direct flights from Wellington, the journey is straightforward, allowing you to arrive with ease and settle quickly into retreat mode. Designed for a small group, this retreat offers a bespoke, personalised experience with thoughtfully tailored yoga and meditation practices and generous time to rest, reflect, and enjoy Soma’s exceptional grounds and facilities.

Beyond the mat, each day offers space for connection and restoration, with the rhythm of the retreat supporting a sense of ease and quiet presence throughout your stay.

Early June in Byron Bay brings mild daytime temperatures around 20 degrees, clear blue skies, and crisp, star-filled nights. It is an ideal time for whale watching and outdoor exploration, with fewer crowds and lower humidity than the summer months.

Yoga and meditation practices take place in the exquisite geodesic dome, complete with underfloor heating and glass ceilings for stargazing, and surrounded by bamboo forest. Meals are shared at the beautiful seven metre dining table, with expansive views over the hinterland.

In between sessions, take time to wander the bamboo and lychee forest paths, pause in the Zen garden, relax by the outdoor firepit, or unwind in the communal lounge or lotus pond pods. Guests are also welcome to swim in the freshwater infinity pool, or restore in the treatment room or Soma Bathhouse, featuring an infrared sauna and ice bath.

Soma is a 22 acre oasis nestled within the Byron Bay hinterland rainforest, known for its lush, tranquil grounds designed to support wellbeing and a sense of connection with the natural world. The property is home to diverse plant communities and native wildlife, creating an atmosphere that feels both grounded and alive.

With exclusive access to this peaceful sanctuary, the retreat unfolds around the group, allowing Soma to be experienced as it does best: unhurried, spacious, and deeply restorative.

Yoga

We begin the day with morning meditation followed by breakfast and a short break. The morning asana session will be approximately 2 hours in duration. The afternoon sessions have a quieter focus which will include inversions, hip openers, forward bends, pranayama (mindful breathing practices) and restorative asana. Approximately 4.5 hours practice per day, with plenty of time for resting and exploring.

Suitable for all levels of Iyengar Yoga students. Experience of meditation and pranayama is not required and the programme will be tailored to each person's level of experience in the group.

Accommodation

Deluxe rooms (30m²) with king beds, each with a private ensuite and rainforest shower. Floor to ceiling windows frame views of either the Byron hinterland or Soma’s rainforest, filling the space with light and calm. Rooms are finished with beautiful furniture and art, 100% linen bedspreads, organic Soma toiletries, and include bath and pool towels, ensuring every detail supports comfort and ease. A limited number of twin-share rooms are also available for those wishing to share.

Meals

Our private chef will prepare three nourishing, delicious, plant-based meals each day, crafted to support energy and wellbeing. Meals are shared around the long dining table, creating a relaxed space for conversation, connection, and with stunning views out over the hinterland.

Additional Experiences

• Massage is available in the treatment rooms (at own cost)
• Exploration of the gardens, forests and beautiful grounds
• Zen Garden
• Firepit
• Infrared sauna
• Ice bath
• Fresh water infinity pool
• Optional whale watching (on the last day I'd like to organise a whale watching tour for those interested –Byron Bay is renown for whale watching).

Travel to Soma from NZ is very accessible and easy. As at January 2026, direct flights from Wellington with Jetstar are $600 return (departing the day before and two nights tacked on at the end – great for exploring the Byron Bay area).

From Gold Coast Airport it is a very easy 40 minute drive to Soma. Shuttle transport to and from Soma can be arranged. Alternatively hiring a car at Gold Coast Airport and driving the 40 minutes to Soma is an easy option (we could potentially carpool).

Check-in is at 2pm on Saturday and departure is 10am on Wednesday after a full brunch.

Note, I've kept the cost of this bespoke, luxury retreat as low as possible as I'd love to see this special new retreat go ahead. The retreat will be confirmed on 25th of January if we reach minimum numbers.

To reserve your place, register interest or for further enquiries, please email tessa@wellingtonyoga.co.nz . Tessa will provide flight and travel suggestions post-booking.

Terms and conditions of booking: The deposit is required by 25th January and secures your place on the retreat and is non-refundable (once the retreat is confirmed). The full retreat price is due by 1 March 2026. Cancellations cannot be refunded unless I find someone else to take your place.

Taking out travel insurance at the time of booking is recommended.

The retreat price does not include flights, massage treatments or airport transfers, whale watching or other add-ons (which can be arranged for guests). Booking is taken as acceptance of these conditions.