The Ranch - Coastal Farmhouse bringing family and friends together♡

Great potential and friendly host, but let down by maintenance and construction

7.0

The house has great potential, beautiful interiors, and sits on a lot of land in a convenient location halfway between Newcastle and Nelson Bay. It is exceptionally well-equipped with a dishwasher, washer, dryer, gas BBQ, plenty of games, and a great TV. The owner was friendly and very accommodating, allowing us to extend our check-out until 12:00 PM and letting our dog stay inside with us. The AC also does a fantastic job of keeping the main living area warm.

− Unfortunately, there were several issues that impacted our stay. We were not informed that swimming pool construction was underway, meaning there was mud all around the parking area and construction machinery spoiling the view. The land behind the house isn't very usable either; just 5 meters away, the elevation drops into a wet, swampy grass field. Because this area isn't fenced off, you have to constantly monitor small children and dogs. Inside, the maintenance was lacking. The top shelf of our clothes drawer was covered in sawdust, which ruined the clothes I put there, and many doors (including the restroom) don't close properly - which is highly inconvenient with a group of 8. The bedrooms also get super chilly in winter. Finally, the amenities need attention: the dishwasher failed with a drain fault on day one, and the BBQ desperately needs to be replaced. Most of its knobs are broken (you have to use provided pliers to turn them), and the ignition doesn't work for some of the burners.

Perfect weekend

10.0

The Ranch was more than we expected. We had an extended family weekend catch-up and was surprised how well equipped the accommodation was, it even had games for our grandchildren. It’s a large property (5 double bedrooms) with fully self catering kitchen with and a lovely open living room ensuring our family got space and relaxation they needed. We spent time at beautiful Anna Bay beach and local shops. Our family of 12 were all impressed with the accommodation and location. It was perfect for us. If we need a family weekend away in the near future I would definitely book this again.

− We liked everything.

Guest review

8.0

Very clean and the beds and bedsheets were very comfortable. The kids loved the fooseball table and other games available like the bocce and bowling pins.

− The garden was getting landscaped when we stayed. Not a problem as the kids loved exploring the huge backyard, but would have liked a heads up about it. Otherwise we had a great stay!

Guest review

5.0

Good position

− Was a bit dirty and we didn't have gas when we turned up to cook dinner after travelling for hours....also had to rush to check out which was hard when you have a lot of people to pack up and it says check out between 10 to 12

Perfect stay, highly recommended

10.0

Comfortable and nice Backyard was amazing