Popular Melbourne hot springs transforms from day spa to stay spa

When Alba Thermal Springs and Spa on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula opened three years ago it cemented the region’s reputation as serious wellness territory with a different offering to the already established properties.

Just an hour south-east of Melbourne but popular with an increasing number of Sydneysiders making a long weekend of it, Alba is a place where guests all dressed in white robes are encouraged to “take a moment”.

That moment can be in the striking corrugated concrete centrepiece building which is set into the hillside and houses a day spa, restaurant and changing area. Or along winding pathways surrounded by carefully designed native landscapes giving way to one of 30-plus pools that vary from 41-degree geothermal waters to a bracing cold plunge.

Further adding to Alba’s respite credentials is the opening of The Sanctuary accommodation onsite taking it from day spa to stay spa.

Set on the highest point of the 15-hectare property, five villas and two studios of muted tones and gentle lighting are kitted out by designer and peninsula local Kate Walker, some with standalone baths and accompanying native botanical salts.

Balconies offer views either of the peninsula and city, or towards the pools, where the distant laughter of guests enjoying a nighttime soak float about.

Designed for maximum privacy – singer Dua Lipa during a pit-stop at Alba was said to be interested in a stay at the not-quite-finished accommodation during her March tour – and the complimentary mini bar is stocked with local favourites including wines from Ten Minutes by Tractor and beers from St Andrews Beach Brewery.

As part of The Sanctuary stay a dedicated concierge is on speed dial: to stoke the in-villa wood fire or deliver all-day dining from restaurant Thyme and a menu created by Karen Martini and overseen by head chef Mario Di Natale with the Alba red rice bowl and crumbed fish sandwich favourites.

The ultimate Sanctuary indulgence, however, is the valet service by golf buggy back and forth to the pools. Early risers will be rewarded with the place almost to themselves while moonlight bathers are whisked back to their bolthole in a flash.

Rooms from $650 a night and villas from $950 including accommodation, breakfast daily and full use of Alba including private change area, entry to the day spa and private pool session.

See albathermalsprings.com.au

The writer stayed as a guest of Alba.