A girls’ weekend… at Derby?

C’mon, what did you think of when you saw the heading on this post? Shopping… nail polish… champagne… pyjamas… day spas… slices of cucumber cooling your eye sockets?

That’s all well and good, but we think women enjoy more than a cosmetic pampering and a spending spree. We think women are adventurous, courageous, spirited and fun. Which is why Derby is the perfect destination for your next girly weekend away.

Here are a four reasons why you should book in a girls’ weekend, with a twist:

1. Swap the day spa for a sauna on a lake in Tassie’s wilds.

That’s right. There is now a floating sauna on Lake Derby and it’s well worth your while to book yourselves and the girlfriends in for a one-hour session ($45 each, max 5 people). Get all hot and sweaty in the wood-fired sauna, then plunge into the invigorating lake waters. And repeat. Book here.

2. Mountain biking, of course.

A group ride around the lake is a must, and it’s a lovely introduction to the trails. If your crew enjoys that, then it’s time to hit the trails holus bolus. There’s so many to choose from! And if what you really want is a ride with a destination, try the trail to Branxholm where you can pause for a coffee refuel before heading back again.

3. Eat yummy food and talk.

The Dales kitchen is built with you in mind. When women get together, there’s a heap of creative energy that bubbles to the surface, so why not put it to good use and cook up a storm? Cooking together is such fun, especially when you know that everyone will be civil, they won’t spit it across the room if they don’t like it. As you cook, you’ll chat. As you eat, you’ll chat. As you clear up, you’ll chat. As you lounge with full bellies, you’ll chat some more. Sigh. Such bliss. Just think of how many dreams are cracked open, admired, fanned into flame around food and good company.

4. Create.

Bring paints. Bring clay. Bring all the things that get you and your friends in a creative space. One of the best ways to recreate, is to create. It’s active rest. A productive way of shutting down the parts of the brain that tend to work on overdrive. Shake picnic rugs out beside the Ringarooma River and have a painting picnic, en plein air. Soak up the fresh air, sunshine and camaraderie. And who knows, maybe you’ll take home something fit for your lounge room wall.