Bathhouses are making a stylish comeback, blending ancient traditions with modern sensibilities. Across Australia, a growing wave of wellness retreats is redefining relaxation as a group activity. For residents of Surry Hills, two standout destinations promise rejuvenation and connection in beautifully curated spaces.
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Capybara Bathing
Nestled on Commonwealth Street, Capybara Bathing offers a tranquil escape in the heart of Surry Hills. Designed for both solitude and shared experiences, this day spa features a lounge where guests can savor tea and enjoy a leisurely read. The facilities include a hot stone sauna, a traditional sauna for purists, a steam room for revitalization, and a mineral bath to soak away stress.
The spa’s emphasis on shared relaxation is clear. “Our bathing activities, individually considered and collectively enjoyed, take place in one shared space. Intimacy is not sacrificed, ensuring that the number of bathers is carefully managed at any given time,” the spa explains. To maintain its intimate yet communal vibe, no more than 20 guests are allowed in the space simultaneously.
Sense of Self Bathhouse
Set to open later this year, Sense of Self Bathhouse promises to elevate Sydney’s wellness scene. Strategically positioned between Surry Hills and Paddington, this sprawling bathhouse will span more than 1,000 square metres, making it the largest of its kind in the city.
The facility will feature mineral pools, saunas, steam rooms, cold plunges, treatment rooms, and ample spaces for unwinding. The owners, who have already gained recognition in Melbourne for their wellness ventures, aim to bring a fresh perspective to Sydney’s bathhouse culture. They’re inviting locals to join their journey and sign up on their website for updates ahead of the grand opening in the second half of 2025.
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A Community-Centred Wellness Trend
Both venues highlight the evolving role of bathhouses as community hubs. Rather than just focusing on individual pampering, these spaces encourage guests to share moments of calm and connection in thoughtfully designed environments. For Surry Hills residents, these bathhouses offer more than relaxation—they provide a unique opportunity to embrace wellness as a collective experience.
Published 10-January-2025