Nurturing Hearts. Restoring Energy.
A calm space to pause, rest and reconnect.
Port Stephens, NSW
A supportive retreat experience for women
Who we welcome
If you are tired in a way sleep doesn't fix...
For women moving through grief, loss, exhaustion, caregiving, transition, or a season that has asked too much.
Every woman’s experience is different - you do not need to explain it before you are allowed to be here.
The experience
What staying here can feel like
Time to slow down...
Step away from daily responsibilities and settle into a calmer rhythm.
Space without pressure
Rest, reflect, connect or simply be in a way that feels right.
Your time here does not need to look a certain way. You may want quiet time alone, gentle conversation, time in nature, or simply a place where you do not have to explain or hold everything together.
A nurturing environment
A peaceful Port Stephens setting designed for restoration.
Surrounded by calm natural space, the Sanctuary offers a supportive environment where women can step away from everyday demands. It is a place to feel cared for, grounded and gently supported as you reconnect with yourself.
Pathways
Find the pathway that feels right...
Individual
Rest and recovery stays
Together
Women's weekends & group retreats
Meaningful time together in a restorative setting.
Supported
Angel Stays
Give back
Support the Sanctuary
Our story
Created from lived experience
Founded by women who understand how much women carry. The Sanctuary is a registered charity and Deductible Gift Recipient, supported by a community who believe rest should be more accessible.
Through donations, partnerships and care, we open the Sanctuary’s doors to women who otherwise could not come.
At the Sanctuary
Retreats, Workshops, & Events
What women have shared
Kind words from women who have stayed...
Questions and guidance
A gentle place to start...
What is Women’s Healing Sanctuary?
Women’s Healing Sanctuary is an Australian not-for-profit organisation offering restorative retreat experiences for women seeking rest, reflection and emotional recovery.
Located in Port Stephens, NSW, the Sanctuary provides a calm and supportive environment where women can pause, reconnect with themselves and restore energy at their own pace.
Who is Women’s Healing Sanctuary for?
Is Women’s Healing Sanctuary a clinical or therapeutic service?
Where is Women’s Healing Sanctuary located?
Women’s Healing Sanctuary is located in Port Stephens, New South Wales.The peaceful setting offers women a sense of space, privacy and separation from everyday pressures, while still being accessible to women from across NSW and Australia. The Sanctuary is approximately 25 minutes from Newcastle Airport, 40 minutes from Newcastle CBD and two hours from Sydney.
What can I expect during a restorative stay?
Do I need to be going through grief or burnout to stay?
No. You do not need to be in crisis or have a specific reason to seek rest.
Many women come to the Sanctuary during times of grief, burnout or emotional exhaustion. Others come because they need space to pause, breathe and reconnect before life feels too heavy.
What are Angel Stays?
Angel Stays are supported retreat opportunities for women who may not otherwise be able to access a restorative stay.
These stays are made possible through donations, partnerships and community support, helping Women’s Healing Sanctuary create more accessible pathways to rest and recovery.
How do I enquire about a stay?
You can enquire through the booking or contact page.
The enquiry process is a gentle first step. It allows the team to understand what you are looking for, answer your questions and help you explore whether a stay at Women’s Healing Sanctuary feels suitable for you.
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
If you’re unsure whether the Sanctuary is the right fit, or you’d like to ask about stays, referrals or support options, you’re welcome to contact our team.
