When you grow weary of the hustle and bustle of modern life, few places are more idyllic to retreat to than the Byron Bay Hinterland. Now, there’s a recent addition to this quaint locale, offering arguably one of the chicest hideaways in the Southern Hemisphere. Sun Ranch, as it’s been aptly named, is Byron Bay’s first-ever ultra-luxury resort, perched on 55 acres of regenerated farmland in the heart of the hinterland. Off-beat but incredibly chic, the retreat was modelled after the laid-back sensibility of a ‘70s Californian ranch house. Planning a getaway? Make the most of your adventure with our guide to Sun Ranch and its incredible surrounds.
What to do…
A huge part of Sun Ranch’s allure is the retreat’s facilities: once you arrive, you’ll have little reason to leave throughout your stay. Founders Jamie Blakely, a former fashion designer, and Julia Ashwood, a travel-blogger, spared no expense in making sure every type of traveller could find their own slice of luxury here.
For the aquatically-inclined, there's a sprawling 25-meter pool crafted from natural basalt stone (and strategically perched on a hillside with sweeping north-easterly views) just begging to be swum in. The ranch is also home to Zephyr Horses, Byron Bay’s top riding club, so holidayers can tap into their adventurous side with trail rides along the mountain ridges and creeks' edges—with a picnic and cold beverage waiting for when you dismount, naturally.
In keeping with Sun Ranch's '70s inspiration, there's an old school badminton court under the dappled shade of a gumtree; while a giant field boarded by fig trees is the ranch's designated ares for lawn games, meditation, and yoga (which takes place at 8am every day).
Where to eat...
Guests of Sun Ranch are in no danger of going hungry. Each morning begins with a complimentary breakfast showcasing fresh, local ingredients (including ranch-laid eggs), plus house-made pickles and jams. Later in the day, you can swing by Rambler Longhouse for lunch or dinner—or opt to continue lounging poolside with your meal delivered direct to you. Of course, cocktails and natural wines are also free flowing.
If you are compelled to venture out, you'll find Harvest Newrybar just a short drive away. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Northern Rivers hinterland, the restaurant makes for an ideal long lunch, while the deli will keep you stocked up on fresh coffee, produce, pastries, and other local delights.
A little closer to the property sits Ciao, Mate! in Bangalow, a cosy neighbourhood Italian restaurant the hits the mark on classic fare.
Where to stay...
You'll be hard-pressed to peel yourself away from the comfort of your room, no matter what kind of Sun ranch accomodation you opt for. There are five Pool Suites, each one adult's only, and boasting an outdoor shower plus perfectly-considered retro design touches, like a vintage sound-system.
For something a little bigger, there are six, two-bedroom, off-grid barns crafted from beautiful natural materials that perfectly reflect the east-northeast panoramic view. To help you make the most of your prime position, the barns are fitted with a BBQ, outdoor showers, an open-plan kitchen, and a custom fireplace. Quite literally everything you could need during your getaway.
And last, but certainly not least, there's the Luxury Suite—the ultimate urban cowboy den fitted with moody, sexy furnishings.
