FAQs

General questions

• Opening hours

  Alba is open every day except Christmas Day.

  Springs
  7.00am to 10.00pm
  Last arrival 8.30pm

  Private springs
  9.00am to 9.00pm
  Last arrival 8.00pm

  Spa
  10.00am to 7.00pm Sunday to Friday
  9.00am to 7.00pm Saturday
  Last arrival 6.00pm

  If you would like an appointment outside of these times please call our reservations team and we will try to accommodate you.

  Restaurant
  7.30am to 10.00pm
  Breakfast 7.30am to 11.00am
  House menu 12.00pm to 10.00pm (last seating 8:30pm)

• When is the best time to visit?

  The springs are great in all seasons. We have warm geo-thermal pools for cooler days, but we also have cold plunge pools for warmer days. The Seasons is our largest pool, and its temperature changes depending on the season.

  In the event of thunderstorms, we will ask guests to leave the pools until the storm passes.

• What should I wear?

  On arrival you will be provided with a locker, towel and bathrobe and you can change into swimwear.

  All guests are asked to wear appropriate swimwear with modest coverage during their visit, including in our private springs. Out of respect to other guests please refrain from wearing a g-string.

  If you have booked a spa treatment, please change out of your wet swimwear and into the disposable underwear, robe and slippers provided, before entering the spa.

  Please note, clothing such as t-shirts are not permitted in the springs, as the high mineral content of the water may cause discolouration.

  Waterproof footwear, such as thongs or sandals, is highly recommended throughout the springs and wet areas. Please note, footwear is required to enter the restaurant.

  We suggest you don’t wear jewellery in the springs as the minerals may cause tarnishing.

• When should I arrive?

  Please note your confirmation email includes an arrival time, that is the time your springs experience begins.

  We have allowed plenty of time for you to enjoy our geo-thermal springs but if you have booked a spa treatment, please allow 15 minutes to change and get from the springs to the spa. On arrival our spa receptionist will invite you into the lounge and ask you to complete a consultation form if you haven’t already done so. Your therapist will then discuss your treatment within the privacy of your spa suite.

• Are there age restrictions?

  Everyone is welcome, however people under 16 must be accompanied by an adult around the springs and in the spa. Infants are required to wear a swim nappy while bathing.

  Our restaurant Thyme offers all day dining. There are plenty of ‘kid friendly’ dishes on the menu such as our salmon bagel, yoghurt with granola and a green smoothie, but we do not offer a kid’s menu.

• Are there any adult only areas?

  Our private springs experiences are available to guests 16 years and above.

• Can I use my mobile phone?

  Alba is a place of tranquillity; therefore, phones, smart watches and laptops are not permitted in our springs, spa or restaurant. Mobile phones and smart watches can be used in reception and the car park, however if you are taking photographs, please only take images of those in your immediate party.

• Do I need to book in advance?

  To avoid disappointment, we strongly recommend that you book in advance and include all members of your party in your booking.

  Depending on availability we may be able to accommodate people who have not made a booking in advance. On arrival our reception team will advise you of what springs and spa experiences are still available.

  Note: A 15% surcharge is applied to bathing when guests arrive without a booking.

• What do I do if I am running late?

  If you are running more than 15 minutes late, please call ahead of your scheduled arrival time so we can determine how best to accommodate you. Late arrivals for services including spa treatments, private springs or dining may be reduced in duration.

• Will I be charged in full when I book?

  Full payment will be debited from your card at time of booking. Similarly, if you are using a gift card, the full amount will be redeemed at time of booking. Accepted forms of payment include Visa, Mastercard and Eftpos.

• What is included in the price?

  All pricing is per person and includes access to the springs plus the use of a locker, towel and bathrobe.

• What should I do if I need to cancel my booking?

  We appreciate things change. However, we require 48 hours’ notice prior if you cannot make your scheduled appointment. The full cost will be incurred if a cancellation is made within that 48-hour period.

• What should I do if I need to change my booking?

  Please call our team to reschedule your booking 03 5985 0900. Please note changes are subject to availability. The full cost will be incurred if a cancellation is made within 48-hours of your booking.

• What is included in my booking?

  All bookings include access to a range of outdoor mineral pools including geothermal pools, a rain pool, cold plunge pools, botanical pools, forest pools and a sunset pool. We also provide you with a towel, bathrobe and locker.

  For those guests who have booked a private springs experience or a spa treatment, details of your inclusions will be sent to you at time of booking.

• How long is my gift card valid?

  Gift cards are valid for three years from the issue date.

• How do I redeem my gift card?

  Gift cards can be redeemed online or over the phone. If your purchase exceeds the gift card’s balance, you can pay the difference at the time of booking via a credit card. See Terms and Conditions.

• Can I re-gift my gift card?

  Yes, gift cards can be re-gifted. If a booking has been made, please call our reservations team to modify the booking. Identification may be required.

• Can I extend my gift card?

  Gift cards are valid for three years and cannot be extended past the expiry date.

• What do I do if I have lost my gift card?

  Gifts cards are to be treated like cash, please ensure its safe keeping.

  Gifts cards may be replaced if lost or stolen, with proof of purchase and if we are satisfied the card has not been used.

• Can I make a request for a specific therapist?

  We employ both male and female therapists, and you may be assigned either on the day of your visit. Specific requests for therapists will, of course, be considered but cannot be guaranteed. However, your request will be noted in your booking.

• Do you have a restaurant?

  Yes. Alba’s restaurant Thyme features locally sourced, seasonal produce with a culinary program created by well-known Melbourne chef, restaurateur, cookbook author and television presenter, Karen Martini.

  Thyme is open for guests of the thermal springs and spa.

  Bookings are essential and walk-ins are subject to availability.

• Can I bring my own food and drinks?

  Alba is fully licensed, and food and alcohol needs to be purchased onsite.

• Do you cater for special dietary requirements?

  Our menu has been designed to include a range of vegan, gluten and dairy free options. We will certainly aim to cater for your dietary requirements. Please let us know your requirements at the time of booking.

  Thyme Sample Menu

• Can I smoke onsite?

  There is no smoking, vaping or e-cigarettes permitted on the property.

• Is Alba accessible for people with limited mobility?

  Alba has been designed with everyone in mind.

  All our buildings and pathways are wheelchair accessible as are many of our pools. One of our pools, The Dunes, has a hoist and sling and many other pools have the provision for one, including one of our private pools on The Terrace.

  We have accessible parking, changerooms and toilets.

  Alba offers complimentary access to the property for carers supporting a guest with a Companion Card.

  In 2025 we will be opening The Sanctuary, our onsite accommodation. One of our rooms will be accessible.

• Do I need to notify you of any existing medical conditions or if I am pregnant?

  Yes. Our reservations team can recommend the most appropriate experiences.

  On arrival at the spa you will complete a Spa Consultation Form, which your spa therapist will discuss with you prior to your treatment.

• If I am pregnant, what experiences are available to me?

  Your wellbeing is our priority. We do not recommend bathing in the geo-thermal springs during pregnancy. You may enjoy dipping your feet in the springs, but fully immersing your body may raise your body temperature, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.

  Certain spa treatments are not recommended during the 1st trimester of pregnancy. However, there are several suitable treatments including the Lullaby. Alternatively please call our reservation team to discuss suitable options.

• Is there a comfortable place to breastfeed or express?

  You will find many comfortable and quiet spaces at Alba. If you require a power source or have further questions, please speak to our receptionists who will be able to assist.

• Can I visit if I am on medication, have previously or am currently undergoing medical treatment?

  We recommend that people with any of the following medical conditions do not enter the springs before first obtaining medical advice.

  • Conditions involving high fever
  • Extreme hypertension
  • Malignant tumours and cancerous conditions
  • Liver, kidney, and circulation disorders
  • Conditions presenting the high risk of haemorrhaging
  • Anaemic conditions
  • Congestive heart failure, recent stroke, or recent heart attack
  • Pregnancy
  • Diabetes

• How often are the pools cleaned?

  To maintain the highest standards of health and safety, regular maintenance is carried out. From time to time some facilities may be temporarily unavailable. We always try to minimise disruption.

• What should I do if I need assistance in the springs?

  Please contact one of our friendly lifeguards if you need assistance.

  It is recommended to bring your own water bottle and to keep regularly hydrated whilst enjoying the facilities. We also have water fountains scattered throughout the grounds for guest use.

  We also advise our guest to be caution of bees around the property.

• Do you offer accommodation?

  We will have luxury villa style accommodation opening in 2025. In the meantime, we recommend a number of luxury boutique hotels close by.

• How do I apply to work Alba?

  We are often looking for talented and passionate people to join our team. Find out more.

• Can I bring my pet?

  We welcome service dogs on a leash or harness, but not pets.

Getting here

• Driving?

  We are located at 282 Browns Road Fingal, a 90 minute drive by car from Melbourne. Check Google Maps for directions.

• Public transport?

  Options for public transport on the Mornington Peninsula are limited. You can travel by train to Frankston station, then bus (Route 788) to the Rye Hotel. From there you can complete your journey by taxi or Uber.

• Is there plenty of parking?

  Car parking is available free of charge. Our car park has been designed with ample accessible parking spaces, plus charging ports for electric cars.

The Sanctuary

• What type of accommodation is available at Alba?

  In 2025 The Sanctuary will open, offering five standalone villas which will sit on the hilltop with sweeping views across the Peninsula. Plus, there will be two premium rooms which are exquisitely appointed and offer all the same inclusions such as complimentary mini bar and all-day bathing.

• What are the key features of the villas and rooms?

  Pre-set log fireplace (villas only); ensuite bathroom, some with stone bath (villas 1 – 3), bathrobes and Aesop amenities; king bed with a pillow menu; complimentary minibar with a choice of Ten Minutes by Tractor wine; Illy coffee machine; yoga mat and self-guided meditations; champagne menu (additional charge); and a turndown service.

  Sample minibar menu

• What is included in the price?

  In addition to all the room inclusions above, guests receive entry to the hot springs for each day of their stay, including private pools; access to the spa lounge and private changerooms; and breakfast at Thyme each morning of their stay.

• Can I book the restaurant and spa?

  Once you have confirmed your visit, we can arrange a booking for you in the spa and/or restaurant.

• What other activities are close by?

  The Sanctuary is close to some of the country’s best golf courses, wineries, water sports and farmers markets. We can help curate the perfect itinerary combining our springs and spa treatments with other Peninsula experiences such as wine tasting, fine dining or a round of golf.

• What is the difference between a villa and a room?

  The villas are secluded and set apart giving you complete privacy. They are spacious and have a private deck with views across the Peninsula. The rooms are connected and a great option for small groups of friends (up to four) wanting to stay close together.

• Is room service available at The Sanctuary?

  Alba will offer a small number of in room dining options.

  Sample room service menu

• Is there dedicated car parking?

  Each villa/room has a dedicated car parking space. There is also premium parking for The Sanctuary guests at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa’s main reception area and charging ports for electric cars.

• When can I check in?

  Check in is from 3.00pm and check out is at 11.00am.

  You are welcome to check in at Reception until 10.00pm. Alternatively, you can access your room via an app with details sent prior to arrival via SMS.

• Can I use an Alba gift card towards my booking in The Sanctuary?

  Gift cards can be redeemed at The Sanctuary. Our Reservations team can assist with redeeming gift vouchers on accommodation.

• When do I pay?

  Full payment will be debited from your card at time of booking. Similarly, if you are using a gift card, the full amount will be redeemed at time of booking. Visa and Mastercard are accepted. A valid credit card is required for all bookings at The Sanctuary. Credit card payments will incur a 0.69% surcharge

• What is the cancellation policy?

  Cancellations must be made at least 14 days prior to the arrival date. Cancellations made within 14 days of the arrival date will incur full payment for the entirety of the booking. For buy outs please refer to terms and conditions on your proposal.

  Guests who do not show up for their reservation will be charged the full amount of their booking.

• What is the room occupancy?

  Rates are based on two adults using existing bedding. An extra guest can be added at an additional charge of $450 per night or $350 for a child (3-12 years old) which includes a rollaway bed, access to the hot springs and breakfast. Children under 2 years old are free of charge. A cot is available at an additional charge of $100.