A bell rings, echoing throughout the valley. Wisps of mist rise from the tops of the surrounding mountains as braids of early morning light stream through the trees. The bell, an early morning wakeup call, is an invitation to join the pre-breakfast activities at Eden Health Retreat. Only half an hour from Coolangatta on Yugambeh country, Eden feels like the lost world – a 400-acre parcel of light-dappled mountains, dewy valleys, tumbling waterfalls and pristine rivers.

It’s an ideal spot to connect with the breathtaking natural environment, while also disconnecting from devices (there’s extremely limited mobile reception in the valley). I’m staying in a premier suite, one of 12 elevated and strikingly modern cabins added to the original cosy 28 during the pandemic. My suite’s design is minimalist yet warm and luxurious with natural timbers, knotted rugs and olive-hued blankets. A private deck offers elevated views of Springbrook National Park and out onto the meandering path below, which leads to the new yoga pavilion and dining area.

As Australia’s longest running health retreat, Eden has evolved from a personal development bootcamp (think bunk beds and group therapy) to a luxury wellness sanctuary with spa treatments, exercise classes, calming activities and meditative walks. While there’s no alcohol, red meat, sugar or gluten served, the dining experience isn’t one of deprivation, but rather, one of indulgent health.

Our first evening meal has everyone talking in reverential tones over the next few days. “I wonder if the chef would share the recipe with us?” one woman wonders aloud, pondering the ingredients in the golden turmeric coconut laksa, with its tender chicken (or tofu for non-meat eaters), fresh crunch of snow peas, bean shoots and the bold boost of Thai basil, chili, coriander and lime. (Pictured: Breakfast on the deck at Eden Health Retreat. Photography by Lindy Alexander.)

It’s the first of many flavourful and nourishing dishes that keep coming throughout my stay – from breakfasts of creamy avocado bruschetta with heirloom tomatoes, marinated feta and toasted hemp seeds; to snacks of coconut sago pudding with lemon myrtle and fruit puree; and hearty lunches of golden haloumi, marinated zucchini, black lentils, tahini yoghurt and pickled onion.

“The food is a big part of why people feel good here,” manager Chris Van Hoof tells me. “We’ve got a new purpose-built kitchen, permaculture garden and we want to inspire, nourish and educate people during their stay.”

Part of the education component is an afternoon cooking class with head chef David Brittingham who shows us how to make seeded crackers studded with sunflower seeds, pepitas and linseed; a smoky roast pepper dip; creamy green pea hummus followed by blueberry lemon cheesecake – all incredibly tasty yet vegan, gluten and sugar free. “I work with a nutritionist to make sure we get the dietary elements right,” Brittingham says. “Our emphasis is on local seasonal and organic produce, but ultimately it has to taste great.” (Pictured: Chef David Brittingham. Photography by Lindy Alexander.)

The consensus amongst the guests is that the food is a highlight. One woman, returning to the retreat for the ninth time says the food is the best it’s ever been. “If only I could get that laksa recipe,” she says. A few days later another guest has spoken with Brittingham and written down the fabled recipe. She passes it on to us so that we can all create a little piece of Eden at home.

Eden Health Retreat is located at 1815 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Valley QLD 4223.

For more info phone (07) 5533 0333 or visit edenhealthretreat.com.au