The Oaks Ranch – Hotel Review
In a word: calm. After extensive renovations, completed just last year by architects and interior designers, Partridge Daniels, The Oaks Ranch has reopened with attention to every detail, and an instant sense of escape. From the impeccable grounds, to the private cabanas by the pool and exclusive fire pits lining the hillside, there’s a Desert Modernism aesthetic about the place as you travel down the 400-metre long tree-lined, dirt-gravel drive, spying cacti in multiple forms before reaching the arched entry of the main building. The only thing giving away the Australian location? Kangaroos lolling in paddocks by the dozen, the south coast at your doorstep and the warm welcome as the door is opened for you on arrival.
Where is The Oaks Ranch?
Originally a dairy farm before the current building was constructed and the property became an equestrian centre circa 1969, The Oaks Ranch is situated above the valley in Mossy Point and mere minutes from the coastline of the Pacific Ocean on the NSW South Coast. Spanning 120 hectares, The Oaks Ranch runs from the Tomaga River in Tomakin to Candlagan Creek on the northside. A four-and-half hour drive from Sydney or just over two hours from Canberra if you’re keen on a road trip. Otherwise it’s a quick 40-minute flight to Moruya airport (10 minutes away), from Sydney.
What’s near The Oaks Ranch?
The remote(ish) location means you will need a car to head out from The Oaks Ranch, but the drive is worth it. Take a left at the end of the drive and wind your way through the homesteads of Broulee to The Mossy Cafe for brunch – the lemon meringue french toast is next level– before walking it off with a stroll around Broulee Point at low tide. Ten minutes north you’ll find the heritage township of Mogo with its artisan gift shops, homemade fudge and hidden treasures. Or if kids are in tow, Mogo Wildlife Park is open daily from 9am.
Room types
There are 14 rooms onsite – despite number 15 displayed on the wall outside one of the doors indicating more, superstition around numbers means there is no room 13 at The Oaks Ranch. With a combination of offerings, some suites have a full-sized bath and verandah views, while other rooms include outdoor showers in a small courtyard setting. All feature kitchen amenities, including a sink, along with Nespresso machine and local teas with free mini-bar snacks of Tony’s chocolate and Yarra Valley crisps. The earthy decor is highlighted by oat and rust-toned linen bedding, pops of navy and rattan accented furniture, while the terrazzo-greens and natural timbers in the bathroom envelope the space in warmth.
Restaurant
On-site restaurant Arlo offers meals throughout the week, all breakfasts and in-room dining from noon to 8pm for hotel guests. An extended menu is available when it opens to the public for lunch and dinner Thursday to Sunday. Leaning on regional produce – the “Joyce’s leaves” side dish from a local producer and sourced from the SAGE Farmers Markets (sustainable, agricultural, gardening, Eurobodalla) each Tuesday is a sentimental fave – along with pickings from their own fresh herb garden, the 36-seater includes dishes of fresh oysters from close-by Clyde River and duck from a local supplier. The wine list, comprises local and international offerings, as well as a sizable cocktail list to choose from including a classic Bloody Mary or Whisky Sour to end your evening.
Pool and Golf course
Grab your complimentary pool towel and make your way out from under the Spanish-style arched terrace to take a seat on a lounge chair – or opt to spread out in a private cabana space – for a day by the magnesium pool, where you’ll be greeted with views of tall gums spanning to the Deua Mountain Ranges and below, The Oaks Ranch’s very own golf course.
If you’re inclined to take a swing, carts are available to make your way around the nine-hole course. All clubs and accessories are provided for on-site guests.
What you need to know
The Oaks Ranch staff can arrange surfing and kayaking activities at the local beaches, or even book a seaplane adventure. They have also recently kicked off a complimentary shuttle service. The on-demand courtesy bus picks up and drops off at multiple stops within a 10-kilometre radius – from Maruya to Malua Bay – between 5.30pm to 9pm. Guests just need to confirm a seat prior to 4pm on the day.
Best for: Couples and families
Design: Spanish/desert modernist
Ambience: Country comfort
Number of rooms: 14
Rates: From $285 a night
Wi-fi: Free and fast
Parking: Free on-site parking
Address: 340 Old Mossy Point Road, Mossy Point NSW, 2537
Telephone: +61 (02) 4471 7403