In a world saturated with typical, predictable hotel offerings, every now and then something truly exceptional catches our eye. Meet Sun Ranch. A pinnacle of creative collaboration, Sun Ranch is a picturesque 55-acre coastal estate in the Byron Bay hinterland, where ‘70s nostalgia meets California horse ranch.
Located just fifteen minutes out of Byron Bay, the sprawling property houses a five-room luxury guest house aptly named ‘The Rambler Longhouse’, in addition to six two-bedroom barns. From the curated interiors steeped in ‘70s influences and Spanish touches, to the stellar event spaces dotted throughout the property and the inventive culinary experiences, Sun Ranch is a truly unique stay unlike anything we’ve seen before.
Image Credit: Sun Ranch | Anson Smart
The Ranch sleeps 34 people in total, perfect for special events or functions, boasts exclusive access to a creek and the plethora of diverse event spaces are simply sublime. Spend your time outside floating between The Pool Club, a 25-metre hillside pool with room for dining and lounging, The Badminton Club, a grassy court for casual players (or avid afternoon gin drinkers), or the The Field House, an outdoor dining space with an Argentinian BBQ, alfresco kitchen fire pit and seating for up to 60 dining guests.
Venture inside and kick back in The Lair, a vibrant sunken lounge within the guest house that seats 30 guests around a sculptural fireplace, or sink drinks in The Whiskey Lounge, an inside area complete with low set designer furniture which flows into an alfresco undercover dining space.
Image Credit: Sun Ranch | Anson Smart
That’s certainly not all of The Ranch’s offerings; it’s not just about beautiful spaces but also curating unique experiences. Of note is Stoney Ridge, an area perched at the top of the property marked by giant boulders and firepit for meditation or celebration; and the Go Easy Dam and woodfired floating sauna, a two megalitre dam with jetty, sauna and spa that holds up to ten guests.
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In addition to these one-of-a-kind spaces, Sun Ranch also offers add-on experiences including onsite horseback riding, cacao ceremonies, sound healing, astrology experiences, and live music under the stars. Yes, it's seriously luxurious.
Image Credit: Sun Ranch | Anson Smart
Every detail of Sun Ranch has been carefully curated to create a haven that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary and unique. A strong ethos of sustainability runs throughout—the six barns are completely off grid and self-sufficient in electricity and water, the guest house uses a hybrid of solar, battery and minimal grid power, and the Sun Ranch estate runs entirely on rainwater.
This sustainability ethos is echoed in Sun Ranch’s gastronomic offering; the ranch’s bountiful gardens and neighbouring producers supply organic produce, ensuring each dish is an homage to local flavours. Resident Chef Philippa Sumback epitomises the farm-to-table concept and all meals can be catered to preferences.
Image Credit: Sun Ranch | Anson Smart
Sun Ranch is a truly unique haven designed to ignite the passions of music lovers, foodies, wellness enthusiasts and anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure. As their tagline reads, it's truly 'the hotel of good times'.
THE DETAILS
What: Sun Ranch
Where: Byron Bay Hinterland
For more information and to book, click here.
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Main image credit: Anson Smart