COME HOME TO YOURSELF:

a nurturing weekend retreat in the Yarra Ranges

Retreat to the woods for a weekend of returning home to you.

We will nourish the body, mind and spirit through guided yoga practices, sound healings,
a workshop designed to help you meet yourself on a deeper level through the lens of yogic philosophy,
delicious plant-based meals prepared by our onsite chef, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded people
all while surrounded by the trees and wildlife of the Yarra Ranges.

This is your perfect opportunity to get away from the noise in your life, and return to a sense of peace within the self.

OCTOBER 11-13, 2024 - Amarant, Don Valley, VIC

Your Host

This retreat will be hosted by Kaela Raku. She has been teaching yoga and meditation since 2019, continuously learning and growing as a teacher by staying committed to being a student first and foremost.

In addition to being a yoga teacher, Kaela has been teaching voice for the past 13 years. She uses this knowledge and experience to enhance her yoga classes and sound meditation offerings.

When attending one of Kaela’s classes, you can expect to find a strong emphasis on the breath, and on the movement of energy in the body. Her intention for every class is that you will end the practice having experienced a shift in how you feel.

Each class includes a perfectly curated playlist of music that guides your movement, a balance of softness and strength, and a deep savasana accompanied by Kaela’s chanting along with harmonium.

No matter what style of practice you are attending, you will be supported with clear cues and guidance. Kaela is passionate about meeting you where you are at in your practice. Whether you are newer to yoga, or have been practicing for years, you’ll find options to give you the support you need.

The Location

Amarant is a Kevin Borland designed architectural treasure perched on Mt Ben Cairn, amidst 25 acres of pristine rainforest in the Yarra Ranges. Built to feel like a treehouse, it takes advantage of the panoramic views down the valley while being at one with nature. As soon as you arrive on the property you can feel the sense of comfort and privacy this place provides.

Not only is the house beautiful, but the surrounding forest has many walking paths, gardens and abundant wildlife to enjoy, without ever needing to leave the property.

The Food

As we nourish ourselves throughout the weekend in various fulfilling ways, one highlight will be the delicious meals prepared by our talented onsite chef, Ava from Fiddlehead Food

Here are a few words from Ava about her passion for creating and sharing these amazing plant-based meals:

All of my life I have been immersed in the joy of cooking, discovering bold flavors and learning about food ethics. I have lived in several places, which gave me an understanding of the importance of various local and sustainable food practices, as well as a taste for spices from across the globe. Spending a decade within the hospitality industry further honed my skills, teaching me the nuances of customer service, food safety, and the magic of crafting and presenting delicious meals.

Catering was born from my passion for creating food and bringing people together to share, learn, and enjoy. Many of my fondest memories revolve around the kitchen and dining table, finding slow moments of connection and community. Drawing inspiration from the slow food movement, farm-to-table ethics, and the belief that food is medicine, I am dedicated to creating dishes that not only delight the taste buds but also nourish the body, soul and planet.

Retreat Sample Schedule

FRIDAY

Arrival anytime after 3:30PM
(time to settle in, explore the house and surrounding nature,
and to take some time to relax and land for your weekend)
5PM: Welcome Circle
6PM: Dinner
7:30PM: Yin & Sound

SATURDAY

8AM: Vinyasa & Meditation
9:30AM: Breakfast
10:30AM: Time to relax and explore
1PM: Lunch
4PM: Self-Discovery through the yogic values workshop
6PM: Dinner
7:30PM: Sound Circle & Sound Bath

SUNDAY

8AM: Vinyasa & Meditation
9:30AM: Breakfast
10:30AM: Free time
11AM: Closing Circle
12PM: Light lunch
1PM: Retreat ends

Accommodation & Rates

With a variety of room options to choose from you’ll be sure to find something that suits your needs for our time together.

Come Home to Yourself is an opportunity to be in connection with yourself as well as with other like-minded souls in a retreat setting.

There are options for Twin Share Rooms, which are great for anyone coming with a friend or partner, or are a wonderful way to meet someone new.
(For those coming as a group, there is one room with the option to add a 3rd or 4th person to make it even more cost effective!)

If you prefer a room to yourself, we have Private Room options available.
*These are first come first served, and there aren’t many so get in quick!

See below for more information on the options.

  • Entire room to yourself or share with one other person.

    $1490
    add a second person + $750

    This room boasts a large King-sized bed, with a private courtyard and ensuite. Perfect for a solo oasis, or to share with a partner, family member or friend.

  • Entire room to yourself or share with one other person.

    $1290
    add a second person + $750

    This room includes a Queen-sized bed and a shared bathroom with Crimson Rosella. Perfect for a solo oasis, or to share with a partner, family member or friend.

  • Share with one other person.

    $1090 pp

    This beautiful room has two King singles and has it’s own private outdoor entrance, as well as an ensuite.

  • Share with one other person.

    $1090 pp

    This cozy room has two King singles and shares a bathroom with King Parrot.

  • Share with 1-3 other people

    $1090pp - first two people
    add 3rd person + $750
    add 4th person + $650

    This room includes both an ensuite and a kitchenette. It is the perfect option for a group of friends who would love to room together. Housing three King singles on the main level, plus a loft with an additional King single there is plenty of room, and is the most cost effective option. (If coming as a group of 4 the split price comes down to $895pp!)

Booking Process

Registration

Fill in the REGISTRATION FORM.

Include your preferred accommodation type.

Be sure to read the T&C's that are located at the very bottom of the page.

Securing Your Spot

Upon receiving your REGISTRATION FORM Kaela will contact you via email with confirmation of accommodation and bank transfer details.

If your preferred accommodation is no longer available, we will offer you an alternative option.

To secure your spot a $300pp non-refundable deposit is required.

 FAQs

  • To reserve your room there is a $300 non-refundable deposit that will be made via bank transfer. The remainder of the retreat amount is due no later than August 30th, 2024.

    Payment plans are available upon request. All payments must be received by August 30th, 2024.

  • 2 nights accommodation at Amarant - Don Valley
    2 breakfasts, lunches and dinners prepared by our onsite chef Ava of Fiddlehead Food
    Daily yoga classes including use of all props
    2 sound healing experiences
    Workshop with Kaela
    Welcome Gift Pack
    Great company!

  • Of course!
    Modifications and options will always be offered to support you in your practice.
    Please let us know your prior experience with yoga and any injuries you may have when filling out your registration form to ensure that you receive the support that you need.

  • Don Valley is located in the Yarra Ranges between Warburton and Healsville, about 1hr and 15mins minutes east of the Melbourne CBD. See it on the map HERE.

  • There is a space on the registration form to fill out any of your specific dietary requirements. Once we have this information we will pass it on to our wonderful chef Ava of Fiddlehead Food, who will accommodate these needs. All food for the weekend will be plant-based and vegan.