Womens retreat in NSW

Time away, in the way that feels right for you

Women’s Healing Sanctuary is a not-for-profit charity in the Port Stephens region of NSW. The Sanctuary offers short-term retreat accommodation, meals and quiet spaces for women who may need time away from stress, grief, loss or exhaustion.

You might rest in your room, walk the grounds, sit quietly with a book, share a meal with other guests, or spend time outside by the pool or gardens. There is no pressure to follow a full schedule unless you choose a facilitated retreat or workshop.

Your time here can be simple.

A peaceful place to pause

There are different ways to spend time at Women’s Healing Sanctuary.

Some women come alone for quiet rest.
Some come with friends or family.
Some join a guided retreat or workshop.
Some are gifted a stay by someone who cares.

However you arrive, the Sanctuary offers a calm place to step away from daily demands, slow your pace and feel supported.

The Choice Is Yours

Choose the stay that feels right for you

Each stay pathway has a different purpose. You are welcome to explore slowly and choose what feels most supportive for where you are right now.

Individual healing stays

Short, restorative stays with all meals included. Spend time walking the grounds, resting in your room, or sitting quietly by the pond. Be as social or as private as you need.

Retreats, workshops and events

For women who would like a guided experience with a facilitator, small group connection and a gentle structure across the weekend.

Grief retreats

For women carrying grief who need a nurturing space to simply be. Step away from daily demands and spend time resting, reflecting, or sitting quietly in peaceful surrounds. There is no pressure to talk, join in, or be anything other than where you are.

Girls' weekends and small group stays

For friends, sisters, mothers, daughters or small groups who want meaningful time together in a calm and private setting.

Angel Sponsorship Program

Sometimes the time to pause is exactly when it feels least possible. If the cost of a stay feels like a barrier, our Angel Sponsorship Program may be able to help.

Gift a stay

For people who would like to offer someone they care about the gift of time away. A gifted stay or gift voucher can be a thoughtful way to support a woman who is tired, grieving or carrying a lot.

About the sanctuary

Privacy and Exclusivity

Women’s Healing Sanctuary is a registered Australian charity with Deductible Gift Recipient status. The experience is intentionally quiet and unhurried.

A maximum of seven guests stay on site at any time. Meals are prepared for you, and you are free to eat privately or share the table with others. The grounds include a pond, a firepit, and space to walk among the trees.

This is a supportive environment to step away from stressful circumstances. It is not a medical, clinical, or emergency service.

TYPICAL INCLUSIONS

What is included in a stay

Each stay type may have slightly different inclusions, especially for facilitated retreats and workshops. In general, a stay at the Sanctuary may include:

Inclusions

Comfortable accommodation
Meals and drinks
Linen and towels
Tea and coffee-making facilities
WiFi
Shared lounge spaces
Outdoor areas for rest and reflection
Access to gardens and quiet spaces
Private or shared bathroom options, depending on your room

Questions before you choose a stay

Do I need to attend a workshop to stay?

No. You can come for an individual stay without attending a workshop or retreat. Some women choose a guided experience. Others come simply to rest.

Can I come on my own?

Yes. Many women come to the Sanctuary on their own. An individual stay gives you space to move at your own pace and choose how much solitude or gentle connection feels right for you.

Can I come with friends or family?

Yes. Small group stays may be available for women who would like to come together. This may suit friends, sisters, mothers and daughters, or small women’s groups.

Are meals included?

Nourishing meals are included all stays and dietary restrictions can be accommodated for a small additional $10 fee.

Can I eat alone if I need quiet?

Yes. Meals may be shared with others, but you are also welcome to enjoy meals in your room or in an outdoor space if that feels more restful.

Is financial support available?

Some supported stays may be available through the Angel Sponsorship Program. You are welcome to contact the team to ask what may be possible.

Is the Sanctuary a crisis service?

No. The Sanctuary is not a refuge, emergency accommodation service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate danger, please call 000.

I am not sure which stay is right for me. What should I do?

You are welcome to contact our team with a simple question. You do not need to explain everything. We can help you understand the available options and point you toward the most suitable pathway.

Contact our team

Ready when you are

If an individual stay, a weekend with friends, or a workshop feels right, we will help you find the best fit. There is no pressure to decide today.