FAQ

What is the accommodation like?

Ensuite Rooms: our Ensuite Rooms are simple, bright and comfortable. All rooms include an ensuite bathroom, fresh linens, fan, and heater. Ensuite Rooms are available as Single, Twin Share, Queen and Triple Share.

Glamping Tents: we have beautiful 5-metre wide, all-weather bell tents comfortably equipped with power points, lighting, heated blankets and a fan. All bedding is provided – you only need to bring your PJs and some uggs/slides to walk to the bathroom pods, which are about 20 seconds away from your tent. Tents are available with single, twin or queen beds.

What does a day pass include?

For those guests who may not be able to make an overnight stay, we also offer single day passes. You can choose a Full Day Pass (8:00am to 8:30pm) or a Partial Day Pass (10am-7pm), depending on how many meals and activities you’d like to join. Please click here for more information on Day Passes.

What does an overnight stay include?

Overnight stays include accommodation, homemade vegetarian meals, Yoga classes, workshops and meditation, and use of all retreat facilities including swimming pool, gym, sauna, spa, and tennis court – not to mention access to walks on 60 acres of beautiful bushland! The only optional extra is massage treatments, which can booked before or during your stay.

What are check-in / check-out times?

Check-in is from 3:30pm. Our first class of the day for new arrivals is 4pm Yoga.

Check-out on your day of departure is 10:30m, but you’re welcome to stay until 3:30pm for the day’s classes and activities. Extra meals outside of your booked date cost $15 per meal.

How do I book a room?

Please check our current availability on the calendar here. You can then book online by following the orange ‘Book’ button.

We recommend early bookings during school holidays and weekends. We do keep a cancellation list so please email with your contact details if your dates are currently unavailable.

How can I make a booking using a gift voucher?

Please email us at info@swami.com.au to make a booking using your voucher.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my booking?

We are unable to offer refunds for cancellations or early departures. Your booking is fully transferable to any available date within 12 months provided appropriate notice is given, but is non-refundable. We will happily transfer your dates and kindly ask that you give us as much notice as possible! Cancellations within 72-hours of your stay will incur a $50 per room re-booking fee. Cancellations within 24-hours of your stay are non-refundable and non-transferable.

How do I book for a massage?

If you want to book for a massage treatment, you have two options:

• Book online here
• Book onsite during your stay: there is a booking sheet in the dining room. You just have to write your name to reserve your slot.

Every treatment has to be booked at least 24 hours in advance. You can book for an individual or a couple massage. The length of the treatment is 55 minutes or 85 minutes.

What should I bring?

• Dress code is casual and comfortable. Many guests wear active wear / yoga clothes all day but do bring a warm layer as it can get a bit cooler in the evening (and especially during winter).
• Your Yoga mat – or borrow one of ours.
• Personal toiletries, including soap.
• Swimwear and a towel for use in the pool/spa/sauna.
• Comfortable lace-up shoes for bushwalking.
• A hat & sunscreen.
• A book and/or your favourite podcast.
• Naturally we request that you leave all valuables, and food and drugs at home (except prescription medication). This includes cigarettes and alcohol.

Is it safe to do Yoga if I have an injury or medical condition?

In most cases, the answer to that question is yes. In fact, Yoga is an excellent way to support the body in its healing process. However, you must consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before you begin your practice and be sure to let your teacher know what is going on so they can address your specific needs.

I just found out I am pregnant! Can I still come to the retreat?

Yoga is a great way to support your body and the newly forming body of your child. There are some precautions, however so we ask that you consult with your doctor/prenatal carer about what activities are suitable for you before you arrive! Our program includes Yoga classes, meditation and gentle bushwalks. You are of course welcome to join in on as much or as little as you would like to do.

May I bring my child to the retreat?

We love children. However, as other guests come for a respite from children, and peace and quiet, we do not encourage bringing young children. We realise that many children have a genuine interest in Yoga and we would love to do all that we can to help – so each situation is unique. Please do not hesitate to email for further details.

What do I need to do to prepare for a class?

• Please wear comfortable attire. Layers are best, as your body temperature changes throughout your practice. Be prepared to work in bare feet.
• Please refrain from wearing any colognes or perfumes.
• We provide mats, but we encourage you to bring your own. Your mat is an important tool and a symbol of commitment to your practice.
• Avoid practising with a full stomach, and drink plenty of water before class to remain hydrated through your practice.
• Yoga is a process. Be consistent in your practice. Do not compare yourself to others. Be patient and compassionate with yourself.

Do I need to have practiced yoga before coming to the Retreat?

No, you don’t need to have practiced yoga before coming to Swami’s Yoga Retreat. There is a wide range of classes, from beginners to advanced level, and various instructors. There’s something for everyone, regardless of your level of experience!

What are meals like? What if I have special dietary requirements?

All meals are vegetarian (mostly vegan) and delicious. Many of our reviews mention our wonderful food being one of the highlights! Special dietary requirements will happily be catered for (e.g. vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free etc) but please let us know before your arrival so we can make arrangements. Fresh fruit is available between meals, as are tea and coffee.

Does Swami’s have WiFi?

There is free WiFi in the common areas of the main building, but not in the guest rooms. We encourage a digital detox during your stay (disconnect to connect!) but understand the need to be contactable during your stay.

Is there a laundry facility at Swami’s Yoga Retreat?

No, there is no laundry facility at the Retreat. However, if you need to wash something during your stay, you can ask a member of our staff. If you need new clean bedding, you can also ask our staff.

Where is Swami’s located?

We are on 60-acres of beautiful bushland in the Hills District, 45 kilometres north west of Sydney CBD. The area is generally known for its market gardens, orchards, herb gardens and plant nurseries. Swami’s is a tranquil haven – a hidden gem!

Where is the office?

There is no office at Swami’s Yoga Retreat. As soon as you arrive, a member of our staff will welcome you, check you in and introduce you to the place. If you need something during your stay at the Retreat, you will always find a member of our staff to talk to.

Is there parking at the Retreat?

There is a plenty of free parking at Swami’s Yoga Retreat.

How to get here:

Private vehicle is the easiest way to get to us. Our address is 183 Pitt Town Rd, Kenthurst.

Please note that Google Maps may direct you to the rear of our property down a side street. There is no access from this side. Please stay on Pitt Town Rd to enter our driveway at the colourful flags. The driveway is winding in parts so please drive slowly and enjoy our magnificent gum trees on the journey down!

By public transport:
Search Google Maps or the Transport NSW trip planner (https://transportnsw.info/trip#/trip) and input your location, day/time of arrival, etc. This will show you your best options.

Depending on where you are coming from, you can reach us by bus – however this will usually involve a few changes and timetable alignments. The closest train station is Rouse Hill Station, and you can get a taxi/Uber from there (Uber is usually the cheapest; make sure the driver comes via Annangrove Rd and Blue Gum Rd – the shortest route). There is also a bus that drops off near the entrance of our Retreat, but there is a still fair distance to walk from there.

For guests traveling from interstate or overseas, there is a convenient local shuttle bus company that will pick you up from the airport and take you to our front door. (Hillz Shuttlz Ph: 1300 650 336)