Sun Ranch
Welcome to Sun Ranch, a sprawling 55-acre coastal estate nestled in the idyllic Byron Bay hinterland. Here, guests are invited to relish in unparalleled privacy, extraordinary on-site experiences, and the allure of exceptional hotel living.
At the heart of Sun Ranch lies The Rambler Longhouse, a meticulously designed five-room luxury guest house, complemented by six two-bedroom barns. Conceived by a collective of seasoned professionals from the creative and hospitality industries, Sun Ranch stands as the epitome of creative collaboration—an extraordinary holiday and event destination that transcends the ordinary, sparks imagination, and leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
The creators, including Jamie Blakey, Julia Ashwood, Chris Searl, Matt Rabbidge, Ronnie Blakey, Mylee Grace, Kelly Searl, Claire Tregoning, Oscar Wright, Tim Tregoning, Moe Mathews, Scott Jago, and Kelly Wright, have meticulously curated interiors blending '70s California Ranch nostalgia with Spanish influences. From event spaces sprinkled throughout the property to inventive culinary experiences, Sun Ranch stands as a testament to the collective foresight of these visionaries and their bold imagination.
"We've crafted a place that we hope truly inspires our guests. From the moment you enter the gates, you'll sense you've arrived somewhere different. With unexpected design elements and diverse offerings, we aim for guests to leave feeling empowered," shares Jamie Blakey. Julia Ashwood adds, "The spaces we've created push boundaries, fusing luxury finishes with unexpected interiors sourced internationally. Sun Ranch, with its vibrant colors and fun, is not just a nod to '70s Californian ranch houses; it's the 'hotel of good times.'"
This group understands that true innovation comes from daring to be different and challenging conventions. Drawing inspiration from their global travel experiences, Sun Ranch possesses a distinctive character, inviting guests to experience something uniquely playful, whether for a small gathering or a corporate event.
The Sun Ranch experience defies comparison, challenging the norms of traditional luxury stays. Accommodating 34 guests across The Rambler Longhouse and two-bedroom Sun Ranch Barns, the estate features an array of exclusive amenities, including The Pool Club, Stoney Ridge, The Badminton Club, The Field House, Go Easy Dam, The Lair, The Whiskey Lounge, and a private house pool for guests of The Rambler Longhouse.
For those seeking additional experiences, Sun Ranch offers horseback riding with Zephyr Horses, alongside Cosmic Cowboy experiences such as cacao ceremonies, sound healing, and astrology. A promise of the ultimate soundtrack accompanies your stay, with musical experiences ranging from the intimate Whiskey Lounge to live bands under the stars.
Every detail at Sun Ranch contributes to a story of collaboration, where artistic minds converge to create a design and innovation masterpiece. Led by Jamie Blakey and Julia Ashwood, in partnership with Balanced Earth, the architectural design seamlessly blends the charm of a bygone era with modern elegance, offering a haven that is both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
While the six barns are off-grid and self-sufficient, and the guest house uses hybrid solar, battery, and minimal grid power, the entire estate runs solely on rainwater. Sun Ranch's Regeneration Program has recently planted 10,000 native plants and trees, reviving the flora in the area.
Culinary enthusiasts will rejoice in the farm-to-table concept, with the ranch's gardens and nearby producers supplying fresh, organic produce. Resident Chef Philippa Sumback ensures an unforgettable gastronomic journey across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and fireside feasts.
Situated in the Coopers Shoot area, fifteen minutes from Byron Bay and two minutes from the iconic Bangalow village, Sun Ranch draws inspiration from the approachable style of Ojai Rancho Inn, the elegance of Big Sur’s Post Ranch Inn, and the idyllic charm of Soho Farmhouse. A laid-back, luxury coastal estate, Sun Ranch is dedicated to the ultra-chic Californian ranch houses of the '70s, designed to captivate music lovers, foodies, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an unforgettable experience to let loose and have a truly great time.
Photography courtesy of Sun Ranch shot by Anson Smart.