For many of us, the ideal getaway doesn't involve much more than lazing by a pool, perhaps with a cheeky bev in hand. At Sun Ranch — a sprawling 55-acre coastal estate in the Byron Bay hinterland, just two minutes from Bangalow — you can do exactly that, or go full cosmic cowboy with sound baths, horseback rides and stargazing beside a firepit. The self-described "boutique micro resort" is the vision of a collective of mates from across the creative and hospitality industries, and it shows — not just in the impressive suite of on-site experiences available, but also in the property's design. Inspired by the likes of Oxfordshire's Soho Farmhouse and Ojai Rancho Inn and Post Ranch Inn in California, Sun Ranch is simultaneously laidback and unmistakably luxe, blending the nostalgia of 70s Californian ranch houses with subtle Spanish influences and modern elegance. [caption id="attachment_1012681" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anson Smart[/caption] The ranch is anchored by The Rambler Longhouse, a north-facing guesthouse with four private ensuite bedrooms — each with direct access to the private pool just off the patio — and a detached one-bedroom suite. For extra privacy, there are six two-bedroom barns deeper into the property, which are completely off-grid. Each spacious barn boasts a fireplace with a custom daybed, an outdoor living space with a barbecue and an outdoor shower — not to mention uninterrupted views of the Byron hinterland beyond. It's luxe living with low impact: the barns are self-sufficient in electricity and water, the main guesthouse uses a hybrid of solar, battery and minimal grid power, and the estate runs entirely on rainwater. Beyond the lodgings, The Rambler Longhouse is also home to communal spaces like The Lair, an airy sunken lounge complete with a fireplace, and The Whiskey Lounge, a dramatic space centred around a low-set burgundy velvet sofa and made with a nightcap in mind. There's no restaurant on-site, but there is a complimentary daily breakfast that showcases produce from local growers, and an all-day menu that can be enjoyed in The Rambler Longhouse or poolside. [caption id="attachment_1011095" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anson Smart[/caption] Speaking of the pool, there are plenty of ways to connect with nature here, and at any speed you like. Take a dip in the 25-metre basalt stone mineral pool — perched hillside and backed by a sweeping hinterland vista — or dust off your shuttlecock at the full-sized grass badminton court. The property also features a sun-washed, plant-framed outdoor recreation area, a dedicated wellness zone with ice baths, a woodfired floating sauna, a natural cedarwood sauna, and a two-megalitre dam with a jetty. However you spend the day, you won't want to miss sunset at Stoney Ridge Healing Circle: a picturesque area at the top of the property marked by giant boulders and centred around a firepit. It's also a prime spot for stargazing (with a glass of wine in hand, should you wish). [caption id="attachment_1011094" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anson Smart[/caption] Sun Ranch is also the holiday home of Byron Bay riding club Zephyr Horses, and you can explore the verdant landscape and creekside on a one-hour guided horseback tour. It's one of several add-ons that lean into the cosmic cowboy vibe — equine-assisted therapy, cacao ceremonies, astrology readings and tea ceremonies are also available. Top images: Anson Smart.
