Qii Forest Bath House
The Art of the Bath
“We do not see nature with our eyes but with the understandings of our hearts”…..”I’ve peppered many “sit spots” throughout the property, my
favourite is the outdoor Hot Tub. I’ve read about them in Japan and the Netherlands and the therapy surrounding an outdoor bath and engaging in nature, so I designed my own version of what I thought would be authentic.”
There is a wellbeing revolution flourishing worldwide and a big push away from fast paced big city life toward selfcare, slowing the pace, and to the benefits of nature immersion. It is not surprising that the “art of the outdoor bath” and its ritual is becoming popular culture.
As a global phenomenon, bathing and its health benefits go back centuries with each country having its own ritualistic approach. The commonality in thought is that water is sacred; having powers to cleanse the body physically, mentally and emotionally. Chinese medicine believes that soaking the feet is an efficient manner of detoxification as the slight rise in body temperature unblocks energy channels. All is needed is some good bath salts, which Qii House provides along with a handmade soy wax candle to set the mood.
Heather suggests taking inspiration from Peru may further add to this indulgent experience. People sprinkle flower petals into the water to help ward off evil spirits and to channel positive energy. Rose is my favourite flower for this, but you can also use the flowers from peppermint, sage, thyme and Rosemary. Wild herbs can also be found in the forest surrounds for use. Therapeutic oils and your favourite beverage may enhance your experience.
The Qii rainforest bath house is encased in bamboo. Heather’s favourite “sit spot” to soak in the moment, to relax a busy mind, to manifest my best thoughts, to engage all one’s senses in the aromas of the forest and to be present. Selfcare and forest immersion are but simple pleasures, but this spiritual spa experience can benefit mind, body and soul and teach you the art of living a healing lifestyle.
Savour the moment…
“Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.”
William S Burroughs
Heather considers the bath house an “enhancer” to the existing experience at Qii House.
“In the hot tub you can meditate, use eucalyptus oil, even have a glass of champagne, lay back and inhale the aromas of the forest and just be in the moment – whatever floats your boat. It’s a perfect way to engage all your senses.
“When we honour the earth, we honour ourselves, may your time in nature lead you to yourself.”
Rainforest Reflections…
“follow effective action with quiet reflection. From quiet reflection will come even more effective action.”
Peter Drucker.
Big enough for two, the bespoke bath is encased in bamboo with its lid embellished by a medallion depicting mermaids and fish; handmade by artisans in Hiati from recycled oil drums. Oil rubbed bronze mooni waterfall taps add a further dash of style. Partly covered, the bath house includes two daybeds, and is arranged around a giant tree fern. “It’s actually coming through the floor”.
There must be quite a few things that a Hot Tub won’t cure but I don’t know many of them… Sylvia Plath
Healthcare benefits of using a hot tub
- Stress relief. Stress results in muscle tension, headaches, fatigue and soreness
- Minimise the pain of arthritis
- Lower diabetic blood sugar levels
- Promotes weight loss
- Sleep more soundly
- Lowers blood pressure
Feel the Vibe and Come Alive!
Qii house is an out of box experience. Savor the moment in fresh mountain air, in the ancient otways eco-system, where focus is shifted to the art of living in harmony with nature’s rhythm.
Forest Therapy Insights
Heather awarded Female Diamond Entrepreneur 2026
The Female Diamond Entrepreneur Award recognises exceptional women who are making their mark in business and driving entrepreneurial success. This award celebrates female entrepreneurs who demonstrate vision, resilience, innovation, and leadership within their field....
Wellness Experience of the Year – Qii House
Built as a private property in 1977, Qii House has since been transformed into an eco-meditation and relaxation retreat by current owner Heather Kolb. Featuring a unique and somewhat quirky design, the property seamlessly blends in with its natural surroundings deep within the lush rainforests of the Great Otway National Park.
Reinvention in the Rainforest: Building Qii House
She didn’t plan to buy a rainforest. It started with a detour—one of many spontaneous drives along the Great Ocean Road that followed the quiet chaos of widowhood. But this time, something tugged at her more than usual. A hillside retreat, wild and worn, hidden beneath the lush Otway canopy, whispered, “This is it.”