When was the last time you spent time in nature with nowhere to rush to and nothing you needed to achieve?

Join Forest Pathways for a gentle, guided forest bathing walk in the beautiful surrounds of Wollongong Botanic Gardens. Over three unhurried hours, step away from everyday demands and discover what unfolds when you slow down, awaken your senses and give yourself time to simply be.

Known in Japan as Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing means taking in the atmosphere of nature. You won’t need swimwear..... just comfortable walking shoes and a little curiosity.

Gentle grounding practices help you arrive and settle into your surroundings. As we wander slowly through the gardens, we pause for sensory and creative invitations that encourage you to experience familiar things in fresh ways.

You don’t need to be creative, know how to meditate or have tried anything like this before. Every invitation is optional and your guide will support you to participate in whatever way feels comfortable.

Each walk is shaped by the season, the weather, the gardens and the people who gather. We finish with a Japanese-inspired tea ceremony beneath the trees, a warm and welcoming way to savour the experience before returning to your day.

Led by an INFTA-certified forest therapy guide from Forest Pathways, each session offers a welcoming space to rest and reconnect and discover the restorative benefits of spending meaningful time in nature.

Come on your own, bring a friend or share the experience with someone you love. You’ll be warmly welcomed.

What to expect

🚶 Approximately 1.5 km over three hours, at a relaxed pace with regular stops

🍃 Guided sensory and creative invitations, all participation is optional

💚 Time for quiet reflection and connection with nature

☕ Japanese-inspired tea ceremony beneath the trees

🌳 Small group experience - all genders welcome

Suitable for ages 12+

Here are the details

⏰ Time: 9:30am for a 9.40am start - Finish by 12:30pm.

📍 Location: Wollongong Botanic Gardens

🧭 Meeting point: Near the bench seat by the Education Centre

🚗 Parking: Madoline Street carpark

🚻 Bathrooms: Yes near by

What to bring

Comfort is key!

👕 Comfortable layers suited to the weather

👟 Comfortable walking shoes

👒 A hat and sunscreen

💧 Drinking water

🌳 A small mat, towel, cushion or portable stool for sitting

🌦️ A rain jacket/umbrella if showers are forecast

Walks go ahead in light rain, which can bring its own beauty to the gardens. If unsafe weather requires cancellation, we’ll contact you.

Spaces are limited to keep the experience personal and unhurried. Book your place and give yourself something to look forward to.

Held by nature, guided with care.