With immersive nature workshops, lush gardens, and quiet corners to enjoy, Alsahwa Estate invites the whole family to unwind together this spring.
Finding a welcoming, local space where families can genuinely relax and kids can be immersed in nature is no easy task. Yet, tucked into 30 acres of pristine hinterland in Palmwoods, Alsahwa Estate is far more than a day out; it is a love letter to slow living.
Founded by Jo Walker in 2020, Alsahwa means “the awakening,” a name chosen to reflect the Estate’s commitment to mindful living, community and deep connection with nature. What began as a retreat space on a macadamia farm has evolved into a holistic sanctuary centred on the ēthos of MIND . BODY . PLANET .
Alsahwa Estate moves at its own pace. Across the grounds and through the Botanica gardens there’s room to wander, spot birdlife, or simply do nothing at all. Paths wind gently through the landscape, ducks paddle happily on Duck House Dam and by afternoon, the lawns of Agora — a relaxed, open-air space beside the Duck House Dam filled with picnic tables and the low hum of families in no particular hurry.
While little ones play barefoot lawn games, parents can truly exhale. Settle into an outdoor table with a freshly brewed coffee, share an antipasto board, or book a long lunch at ēthos – the Estate’s farm-to-table restaurant celebrating seasonal produce harvested directly from the gardens and other local growers. It is a rare family-friendly environment where children stay happily engaged in safe surroundings while adults enjoy a sublime meal and a moment of calm.
And starting from the September school holidays, Alsahwa Estate is opening its gates to an engaging, hands-on school holiday program. From beekeeping to wildlife detection, children will feel inspired and proud to learn about sustainability and regenerative practices through a joyful morning of eco-focused activities.
“School holidays are a great opportunity for us to share another side of Alsahwa with families. There’s so much happening naturally across the Estate, from our bees and kitchen garden to the wildlife around us, and the program gives children a chance to get amongst it all and learn by doing. We’ve also designed it so parents can stay, slow down and enjoy the Estate while the kids explore. This is our first school holiday program, and we’re looking forward to building on it each year,” says Michelle Clark, Alsahwa Estate General Manager.
A kids program will run every school holiday; check the website for more details.
Space to play, explore and slow down together at Alsahwa Estate.
Whether visiting for a holiday workshop, a delicious family meal (yes, they have a kids’ menu too!), or an unplanned morning wandering the gardens with coffee, Alsahwa Estate offers families time together that feels meaningful, grounded and deeply restorative.
September school holiday highlights at Alsahwa Estate
Lawn Games in Agora
Sat 19 Sep – Sun 4 Oct
Free, barefoot fun! Kids can enjoy giant lawn games in Agora while parents relax with food and drinks by Duck House Dam. No booking required (weather permitting).
Honey Heroes
Wed 23 Sep & Thurs 1 Oct
8:30am & 10:30am sessions
An immersive morning discovering the world of bees with expert beekeepers, followed by a brunch box in Agora and seed packs to plant at home. (Online bookings required)
Little Growers
Thurs 24 Sep | 8:30 am & 10:30 am sessions
A hands-on gardening workshop where kids meet composting worms, harvest produce, and plant pea seeds to take home, complete with a brunch box in Agora. (Online bookings required.)
Hands-on activities encourage kids to discover growing, sustainability and the natural world.
Koala Detective Workshop
Wed 30 Sep | 9:00 am & 11:00 am sessions
Join 11-year-old koala expert Malani for wildlife spotting tips and a fun Koala Quest challenge through the gardens, plus a brunch box in Agora. (Online bookings required.)
Visitor Essentials
Location: 20 Rifle Range Road, Palmwoods (10 mins from Woombye/Palmwoods stations)
Holiday opening hours:
Wed–Fri 11:30 am–9:30 pm | Sat: 11:00 am–9:30 pm | Sun: 11:00 am–6:00 pm
Good to know: Free entry to gardens and Agora. Pram friendly paths. Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Bring a hat and sunscreen.
Bookings: Workshop tickets and ēthos dining at www.alsahwa.com
