Editor Kate explores the subtle nuances of Zensi, a new luxury retreat space in NSW’s Mudgee, and of her soul.
Late last year, I packed my bags for a two-day escape in Mudgee, NSW, with my sister-in-law, Lauren. We checked into Zensi, a new luxury retreat space 15 minutes from Mudgee town centre and the airport. I had no expectations for the retreat, but I did have plenty of intentions. I wanted to deeply relax, reconnect to my essence, spend quality time with Lauren and sit in circle with other women.
The name Mudgee, derived from the Wiradjuri term Moothi, which translates to “nest in the hills”, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the charming region. Paying homage to this, Zensi offers its own version of a nest – a sanctuary where one can feel embraced, nurtured, safe and free to explore. It is these qualities that founders Ruby Chapman and Ray Tayoun weave beautifully into every moment of Zensi.
The embrace
When I first opened the heavy black oak door to Zensi’s main house, I was greeted by Ruby’s warm smile. Her welcoming embrace immediately made me feel at home – it was familiar and comforting. I later learned that Ruby practises reiki, which could explain the nurturing energy I felt in our initial encounter. I met her husband Ray, who offered Lauren and I a glass of champagne, and we joined nine other women on a tour of the house.
It’s difficult to describe the interiors of Zensi because words are limited in their expressions. What Ruby and Ray have created transcends words – they’ve shaped a feeling, a pause, a moment in time.
Every nook has been meticulously crafted by the husband-and-wife team. With Ruby working on the interior design and Ray on the build, both the main house and villa feature curved walls, beautiful stone flooring and stunning marble finishes. The ambiance of the space honours the beauty of raw and earthy materials, which was a conscious and integral design choice for the couple.
Accommodating up to 10 guests, the house seamlessly adjusts to the seasonal shifts of Mudgee. Featuring an indoor wood fireplace and sunken outdoor firepit for the cool evenings and a rejuvenating mineral pool for the summer months, there’s no reason to leave. With a 10-person sauna, hot or cold spa, wellness room, helipad and so much more, Ruby and Ray have truly thought about it all.
The villa, where Lauren and I stayed, comfortably sleeps two and features an oversized round bath, an outdoor firepit, indoor wood fireplace, outdoor hot and cold plunge pool and sauna. From our king bed, we watched the horses, cows and alpacas graze in the surrounding 33 acres and listened to the sparrows sing.
Feeling deeply nurtured
At Zensi, the nurturing manifested in various forms: Qi gong, organic wine tasting, incredible Ayurvedic food, sunrise and sunset yoga, reiki, sound healing, breath work and connection with like-minded women. Each practice created a deep sense of rejuvenation for both Lauren and I, however one moment stood out the most.
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