From modest beginnings in 1988, the longest running yoga centre in Australia has become a place of wellness for everyone from all walks of life. Its values are centred around inclusivity, providing everyone a sense of hope, healing and connection.
John Ogilvie, turning 69 this year, founded the Byron Yoga Centre, which now boasts various accommodation options that will suit all levels of budgets. John is highly passionate about sharing yoga with the world, as he believes yoga has the power to change lives, including his own.
Destination for wellness
The centre is only a few minutes away from Byron Bay's town centre and local beaches, as it sits on a breathtaking 30 acres of land.
People going on retreats can choose from a wide selection, from weekly half-day to seven-day retreats, and specialty retreats including: Men's Health Retreats, Women's Wellness Retreats, Veterans and Frontline Workers Retreat, and Yoga Teacher's Retreats.
As they celebrate their 37th year, retreat goers can enjoy this exciting offer:
37% off on weekly weekend, 5 and 7-day yoga retreats
Available for 37 hours starting 16th August, 12 midnight
Only 37 slots
Discount code: 37years
This marks the centre's consistency in providing accessible wellness to everyone, especially those experiencing a trying time in their lives. The retreats provide a way for a necessary pause and search for mental and emotional clarity.
Sustainable initiatives
John aspired to create a sustainable eco village, with a focus on having as minimal carbon footprint as possible. People who visit Byron Yoga Centre practice mindfulness and yoga, eat a healthy vegetarian diet and are introduced to the principles of its eco village. They then go home and spread the sentiments of Byron Yoga Centre to their work colleagues, family and friends, creating a beautiful flow in effect. The sustainable features of the centre include:
6 yoga spaces
Eco-accommodation for all budgets
Solar power, compost toilets, rainwater tanks
3 acres of organic gardens supplying their vegetarian farm to table menu
Endangered ecological communities providing a haven for wildlife, including koalas and black-necked storks
Solar-heated 20m magnesium mineral pool and a new barrel sauna
Award recognitions
As part of the centre's commitment to excellence, they secured recognitions that made their mark in Australia's wellness industry. That includes winning the Australian Small Business Championship Award and Booking.com Traveller Review Award both in 2025, and securing a finalist spot at the Australian Small Business Championship Awards in 2024. Their consistency in providing award-winning programmes through the years is evidenced by their recognition as Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Winner in 2020.
"Byron Yoga Centre is not just a retreat centre, but an overall experience. Our guests arrive for yoga, but leave with so much purpose and clarity - just like how I discovered it for myself in my own journey," says John.
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