Step in. Heat up. Cool down. Reset. 

Across Victoria, more people are leaning into wellness trends that are bold, energising and a little bit adventurous. Cold plunges, heat therapy and recovery hacks have been popping up everywhere at wellness venues, and it’s no surprise Victorians are paying closer attention to ways to feel good and add a spark of energy to their week. 

That’s exactly what Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa in Hepburn Springs is looking to deliver through its new Contrast Therapy experience, as part of Sanctuary bathing at the venue. Starting with a warming sauna session to loosen up muscles, followed by a brisk ice‑bucket cool‑down, guests are in for an exhilarating ritual that will leave them buzzing. 

SJ Tilbury, General Manager of Wellness at Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa took the plunge herself. She said: 

“Our team has observed a massive interest in contrast therapy as it continues to redefine wellness in 2026. I’m proud that we’ve come together to tap into this trend and allow our guests the opportunity to recharge in a new, immersive way at Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. 

“We designed this experience to be accessible for everyone and it’s something I am already incorporating into my wellness routine. Guests can move through the heat and cold at their own pace and it really re-energises them.” 

Here’s what guests should know 

“First, guests enter a cooling mist space and experience an invigorating ice bucket shower of cold mineral water. This awakens the body, stimulates circulation and prepares the body for heat,” wellness expert Tilbury says. 

“Next, step into dry heat to ease muscle tension, encourage detoxification and support cardiovascular health. This stage is all about activating the body’s natural recovery process, strengthening immune function and enhancing circulation.” 

Set against a backlit Himalayan salt brick wall which casts a soothing orange glow, inside the sauna guests will find temperatures reaching a gentle 80°C. 

The final step involves soaking in a warm, magnesium-rich salt pool, complete with tranquil views brought by an architectural skylight. 

Tilbury says: “Complete the cycle with a warm soak in magnesium-rich water. This stage promotes muscle recovery, relaxation and rebalances the nervous system.” 

While Contrast Therapy is energising, it is still considered a gentle, supportive wellness ritual, backed by centuries of global practice of ‘taking the waters’ in Hepburn Springs. “Guests can choose their pace, how many rounds they do and how far they’d like to stretch their comfort zone,” explains Tilbury. 

“True to our inclusive approach, it’s a space where everyone can feel welcome, safe and reinvigorated.” 

Whether guests are visiting for recovery or relaxation, Contrast Therapy is an easy add‑on to the bathing experience that will leave guests feeling more awake and more connected to their body. 

Beyond contrast bathing 

“Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa has a long‑standing connection to health and wellbeing – with 130+ years of award-winning bathing heritage – and we continue to evolve with a blend of traditional bathhouse mineral bathing and modern spa therapies that respond to how people want to relax and recharge today.” 

“Our targeted, luxurious body and facial treatments (including seasonal facials with Elemis) and 12 private mineral bathing rooms offer a more personalised pace.” 

Ready to reset with luxury bathing? Guests can plan their Contrast Therapy session at Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa here. 

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