Have you ever wanted to go on a retreat — but wished it revolved around one of your favourite hobbies?
Imagine waking up in the beautiful Yarra Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and fresh country air, with nothing on your agenda but great company, delicious food and a whole lot of mahjong.
This is your invitation.
Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, learn something new, or simply give yourself permission to step away from the busyness of everyday life — our Yarra Valley Mahjong Retreat is the escape you've been waiting for.
Guided sessions, social play, and plenty of fun, all set against one of Victoria's most stunning backdrops, just an hour from Melbourne.
Join Anna Bidgood and Anni Grimwade from 9th to 11th October 2026 for a unique weekend of Mahjong and fun!
Our inaugural Mahjong weekend is being held in the heart of the Yarra Valley wine region at the stunning Eden Yarra Valley
Whether you're a seasoned mahjong player or fairly new to the game, this weekend is about good company, beautiful surroundings, mindfulness, and fun.
You can do as much or as little as you want - everything is optional — come for the tiles, stay for the laughter.
Please note this retreat is not for absolute beginners (reach out if you are unsure)
What's included:
Friday 9th October
4.00 pm - Arrive at Eden - you could spend the earlier part of the day in this gorgeous area (think lunch, galleries, cafes and wineries of the Yarra Valley).
Make yourself at home and explore the rooms and garden. Get to know your fellow Mahjongers over a cuppa and afternoon tea.
5.00 pm Mahjong is on!
6.30 pm - Drinks followed by a delicious dinner
Saturday 10th October
8.00 am: Mindful movement and meditation.
9.00 am: Breakfast with all the trimmings
10 am: Mahjong
12.30 pm: Enjoy a healthy lunch amidst the stunning views. Spend a couple of hours after lunch at your leisure - rest, explore the area, read a book or walk
3.30 pm Mahjong
6.00 pm Drinks
6.30 pm: Dinner and post dinner fun!
Sunday 11th October
8.00 am: Mindful movement and meditation.
9.00 am: Breakfast with all the trimmings
10 am: Mahjong
12.00 pm: Our final meal together for the weekend
1.00 pm Mahjong
3pm: Departure - Packing will be a breeze and we want you to enjoy every second of the retreat before your mind turns to leaving....
Please note: all activities are optional. This is your retreat.
Anna and Anni have thoughtfully curated this experience to inspire Mahjong fun and learning and to connect with fellow Mahjongers
Rose Garden Suite (B1) premium luxury garden view suite with private entry, spa ensuite and sofa.
The Rosebud twin room has 2 single beds and shares a bathroom with one other room. Price is per person.
The Vine twin room has 2 single beds and shares a bathroom with one other room. Price is per person.
The Iris Suite is a premium upstairs room with ensuite spa and garden views.
The Wisteria Lane Suite is a premium luxury garden view room with spa ensuite and sofa.
The Rosemary Retreat is a premium garden view room with one king bed, two bunks and sofa. It can be reconfigured to two singles and two bunks. Pricing is based on two people, please contact for pricing for a triple.
The Primrose Suite has twin single beds and ensuite spa and sofa. It has garden views. Price is per person.
Willow Chalet is a private chalet premium suite with outdoor deck, ensuite spa, sofa and kitchenette.
The Maple Chalet is a private chalet premium suite with outdoor deck, ensuite spa, sofa and kitchenette. The Chalet has 1 King bed and 1 double sofa, is a twin share and price is per person.
Absolutely! We encourage you to bring a friend, partner, or family member to share this special experience. The retreat is open to all levels of Mahjong experience apart from absolute beginner . If you’re planning to share a room with someone, just let us know in your inquiry or at the time of booking.
Many of our guests travel solo! If you’d like to share a room, we’re happy to pair you with a like-minded retreat guest. Our spacious villa offers plenty of privacy, with peaceful nooks and cozy corners where you can enjoy quiet moments as well.
Not at all! This retreat is designed for you—whether that means joining every session or simply taking time to relax. You’re free to do as much or as little as you like.
Your retreat hosts are Anni Grimwade and Anna BIdgood —learn more about them below!
Eden Yarra Valley is a large country retreat nestled on two acres of stunning English-style gardens in the heart of Yarra Glen.
The luxury accommodation suites overlook beautiful trees, manicured lawns, tranquil ponds and garden beds brimming with roses, wisteria, camellias, daffodils and irises, all surrounded by tall privacy hedges.
The rolling green hills complete the feeling of being enveloped in a Garden of Eden, a world away from bustling city life… Located in the peaceful Steels Creek Valley, close to Yarra Glen’s antique shops, restaurants and supermarket and surrounded by all of the Yarra Valley’s famous wineries.
Yes! Our schedule balances guided sessions with plenty of free time.
We also suggest you head away from Melbourne early in the day and make the most of your Friday to visit local galleries, shops or enjoy a winery meal
We have created a menu that’s both delicious and nourishing. Meals are made with fresh ingredients, and most dietary requirements—including allergies and sensitivities—can be catered for. Just let us know your needs in advance.
Red and white wine as well as non-alcoholic beverages will be provided for dinner, however you are most welcome to bring your preferred drink.
Simply send an email below with your preferred room type (twin, or single and whether standard or chalet) and we’ll send you the booking details, conditions, and payment plan. Rooms are allocated in order of payment.
We’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide covering everything from what to pack, and all the little details that will make your trip smooth and stress-free. If this is your first retreat, we’ll make sure you feel supported every step of the way!
Anni and Anna became firm friends almost 25 years ago and it's fair to say (perhaps like you) they can't get enough of it! Thus the idea of Mahjong retreats was born, also encompassing aspects of yoga/qigong/meditation for those wanting to also walk away with a bit more peace.
Anni has been playing mahjong for over 50 years and teaching for more than 20. An Australian Mahjong specialist, she runs a thriving mahjong school and is known for her calm, practical, and supportive teaching style. Anni is passionate about the strategy of the game, the connection it brings through shared play, and the gentle challenge it offers. She brings the same mindful, balanced approach to mahjong that Anna brings to yoga, together creating welcoming spaces where people can learn, connect, and enjoy the process.
Whilst Anna only started Mahjong recently she is already obsessed! Anna recommenced yoga over a decade ago and went on to study Yoga and wellness therapies. Anna teaches Yin and Fascia Release classes, holds regular Restorative Yoga Workshops with Sound Healing and Reiki, is a mindset and Cranoisacral therapist and runs retreats. She is into all things wellness and shares strategies for healthy and calm living.
Together they will ensure that you leave this retreat feeling nurtured, challenged, recharged and restored