Guest Reviews

Welcoming guests to villa rani warms our hearts - we Are so grateful.

We love hearing from our guests to discover their experiences and memories while staying with us. Here are a few things our guests have said about their stays with us.

Villa rani has a special place in our hearts & we truly hope that it finds one in yours too.

Thank you, Gayle & Hank,

We really enjoyed our stay here. It was just what the doctor ordered. The Villa has been so well designed that it instantly allows you to feel calm, free & at home – we are very jealous of your heated tiles! We will share our rave reviews with friends and family to come and enjoy this little slice of Ubud in NSW.
— Love, Nick, Bec, Kim, Seb, Blue & Peanut.
Dear Gayle and Hank,

Thank you so much for allowing us to enjoy this beautiful villa! It felt like I was back in Bali. We enjoyed the heated tiles in the bathroom so much! We had a very comfortable stay and thank you for being such amazing hosts. Thank you for the thoughtful gestures. Hope you guys enjoy these handmade chocolates from Sydney (they are our favourites). We’ll be sure to recommend this place to our family & friends. Would love to be back again soon.
— X Jane, Phil and Moose.
Thanks, Gayle and Hank,

We loved our stay! The thoughtful touches and the quality of all your beautiful things were very much appreciated and enjoyed. You have a beautiful place and would stay again in a heartbeat.
— Anna and Jeshi. x
Thank you for having us!

The villa is amazing & we have loved staying here. You have been incredibly accommodating and really appreciate my little birthday surprise! This is an amazing place to be away from home & will highly recommend to all my family & friends.
— Jessie, Madi, Taylor + Olivia xx
Gayle and Hank,

Thank you for letting my beautiful family and I stay at the one and only Villa Rani! You guys truly have a real diamond and it was the perfect birthday getaway.

We can’t thank you enough for how accommodating you were and best believe we have already told all our friends and family about staying here already! We both look forward to coming back again to stay at Villa Rani.
All the best.
— Mike, Lisa + Penelope.
Gayle & Hank,

Thank you for having us. The stay was amazing. Such attention to detail from the house plants to the coffee and cooking supplies. Our dog absolutely loved playing on this beautiful property & swimming in the dam with Java and Jessie. The outdoor bath & pool were perfect. Amazing shower and super comfy bed. You have made a perfect getaway on your property. We would love to come back & visit.
— Jack & Henna.... & Leila.
From the moment we walked into Villa Rani we started to unwind & relax. Gayle is so lovely, she welcomed us on arrival and was available to assist with any queries we may have had. From the relaxing music & wine & chocolates on arrival to all the wonderful spaces in this villa, we had the most relaxing few days and can’t wait to return. The kitchen was extremely well equipped & well stocked. The beds were really comfortable, the bathroom warm & cosy with underfloor heating and the dedicated media room with Netflix was great. We loved the spectacular tropical gardens Gayle and Hank have created over the years and the location to Byron Bay and the surrounding hinterland is perfect. My favourite part of our stay was the heated magnesium plunge pool which was so warm & relaxing in the middle of winter. Villa Rani has all those special touches that make this the best Airbnb I’ve ever stayed in. Highly Recommended.
— Wendy & Patrick.
We had a fabulous time staying at Gayle & Hanks villa. From the moment we walked in we were instantly relaxed in the Balinese inspired surroundings! The villa has absolutely everything you need for a self contained stay from kitchen to laundry. The plunge pool was an absolute highlight for us in a spectacular tropical setting. Communication was super fast and Gayle was very helpful, we’ll be back.
— Kate and Ian.
Villa Rani was the perfect relaxation spot me and my partner were looking for. Could not recommend it anymore, the space was perfect, the views were amazing, and the Plunge Pool was awesome!!! Definitely my favourite. Can’t wait to return!
— Quinn & Katlynn.
Wow! Gayle and Hank you have created such a special retreat at Villa Rani! You went above and beyond to accomodate us, we were expecting a portable cot but so surprised to see that you had gone to the trouble to assemble a cot for our 3 month old in our room! Thankyou! We are absolutely relaxed and refreshed after our stay and wish it didn’t have to come to an end so soon. We had a wonderful three night stay here and will be highly recommending this property for friends and family looking to get away. Thank-you for the wine and chocolates too, cheers.
— Ellie, Dave & Ollie.
Beautiful, peaceful and relaxing! Lovely layout of the house too. We loved the pool and the bath. It was nice being just out of the Byron centre, and so great that it was dog friendly too. We’ll be back!
— Bonnie, Alex & Nala.
Stumbled across this little slice of heaven. A little getaway post impromptu wedding. The photos don’t do it justice, the energy here is so calm and beautiful. The owners are the most thoughtful and accommodating Airbnb hosts I have come across. I can’t recommend this place enough, we will definitely be back.
— Natasha & Garry.
Thank you Villa Rani + Gayle and Hank. Perfect location close enough, yet far enough to Byron and Mullumbimby. The space oozes zen and zen at a benevolent level. Exactly what we needed, we didn’t want to leave! Definitely experiencing the withdrawals. Every modern creature comfort has been taken into account from the magnesium pool to the kitchen appliances, making everyday things feel abundant + like a slice of paradise. Definitely shall be back to stay. Perfect energy to reset + rejuvenate within. Communication with Gayle is above and beyond what was asked of. Thank you.
— Anita & Jarrod.
Absolutely blown away by our stay, this has to be our favourite Airbnb experience to date. We booked in with Gayle and Hank for our babymoon and it was pure bliss. Everything was perfect from the thoughtful small touches (chocolate, wine, orange juice, sparkling water, I could go on) to the beautiful plunge pool and bath. The beds were extremely comfortable and we loved waking up to the beautiful views. Extra bonus that it’s dog friendly. Very rare to find such a beautiful place that allows dogs. Cannot recommend this place enough, we will definitely be back.
— Rebecca & Broderick.
This place is absolutely spectacular! The grounds and the Villa were so well appointed and luxurious, having everything you need for a relaxing getaway.

We didn’t feel the need to leave to property, but if you wanted to go to Byron or the Farm, these are only 15-20 mins away!

The plunge pool and outdoor bath were a highlight!
— Jessica & Tim.
Amazing place. The outdoor bathtub was my dream. It is very spacious and stylishly decorated in Balinese style. The villa is about 15 minutes from Byron Bay and 5 mins from the Farm. It is next to the main house however very private. You will not regret booking this place.
— Noemi & Johannes.
This place is a little slice of heaven. We felt relaxed from the moment we arrived. Gayle & Hank were the loveliest hosts and provided us with great local tips. Our dog loved the place also. Such a treat to have this beautiful stay in a great part of the north coast that is dog friendly. Villa Rani is very special - we loved our stay here & did not want to leave.
— Monique & Stuart.
Villa Rani is even more stunning in person than in the already beautiful photos. We stayed for a week, and the thought and care that Gayle and Hank have put into the design of every space really shows. The villa was incredibly light, breezy and restful in a fantastic location. We really appreciated the thoughtful touches particularly in the kitchen, we were provided with juice, muesli and enough ingredients to whip up some pancakes which was fantastic. We would love to return and will be recommending Villa Rani to all of our friends back in Sydney!
— Scott & Daniel.
Villa Rani is a very special piece of paradise! So welcoming, relaxing and comfortable. Such a magical place to rejuvenate. Gayle & Hank are such wonderful hosts, respectful of your space, yet instantly available to help. Villa Rani is so tastefully decorated with so many personal touches and gorgeous Bali influences, so highly recommend for a special break.
— Karen & family.
It was exactly what we needed - a beautiful, wholesome & spiritual place to wind down our busy lives for a few days. We enjoyed the magnesium pool and bath (great for watching stars at night) and our little pooch enjoyed the beautiful garden and playing with the other dogs. The bed is sooo comfy and we loved waking up to the sounds of birds and nature. The kitchen is fully equipped and you’re welcomed with a lot of treats (thank you). Its a close drive to town and other beautiful places and we would have loved to stay longer.
We will definitely be back and are so glad we found this beautiful oasis of Bali in Byron Bay. ❤
— Citra, Matt & Keanu.
Honestly - the most relaxing weekend I have had in a long time. The space is beyond gorgeous, the location is quite, secluded and relaxing. The magnesium pool is just unreal. The heated floors, linen, tv room & bedding are all beyond comfortable. Everything about the space, amenities & guest experience has been perfectly thought through. I live locally in the area and have stayed at many Airbnb’s and I truly have to say this is now a new favourite.
I will definitely be back.
Thank you.
— Alexz.
Our stay at Villa Rani was absolute heaven. Gayle and Hank have perfected the Balinese design with authentic furniture, beautiful artwork and even incense burners. They thought of everything. We felt so happy and relaxed after 3 days with them. Thank you so much for having us, we will definitely be back!!
— Gabi and Adrian.
Pat and I loved our little getaway here at Villa Rani. It was just the peace & tranquillity we needed after a massive year full of setbacks. Every part of the villa is beautiful, but the heated tiles and plunge pool would’ve been our favourite. Gayle and Hank, you have created something so beautiful, we feel like we are in Bali.

Thank you for your hospitality!
— Tia and Pat. x
Thank you so much Gayle & Hank!

We were so excited for our first holiday of 2020 and Villa Rani exceeded our every expectation! What a spectacular place (sanctuary!!) you have created. We loved all of the beautiful décor that transported us to Bali and the luxury touches from the provisioning to the comfy beds were just awesome. We can’t wait to come back!!
— Katherine & Cyrus.
Gayle and Hank,

Thank you so much for this wonderful place and the little touches! We LOVED our time here and will highly recommend for everyone.
— Gaelle.
Our holiday here at Villa Rani couldn’t have been better!

The accommodation is exceptional with beautiful details like the open-door bathroom, the plunge pool and even all the other different areas. It’s an enormous place to relax! It was super clean, super organised and we are sad to leave. Gayle and Hank have done an amazing job, even as hosts and we will stay here again ♡

Five stars for Villa Rani.

All the best
— Denise & Brett.
Gayle and Hank,

What a beautiful space you have created! Thank you so much for your hospitality for our girl’s weekend away.

The facilities at Villa Rani are exactly what we were hoping for from the fully functioning kitchen, the super comfy beds (and those pillows!), the stunning bathroom, the immersive outdoor bath and the plunge pool (perfect for night swims)J

We can’t wait to come back and visit again!
— ♡ Annie & Jordan.
A beautiful, relaxing villa in a lush, tropical setting. Lots of amazing details and comforts including the heated plunge pool (perfect temperature in Winter!). Only about 15 minutes to Byron although felt a world away from the hustle and bustle there.
— Andrew.
Very unique and tastefully designed villa, with lots of nice furniture and artwork dotted about and located in tropical green surrounds. It’s the perfect place to return each afternoon/evening after days exploring the coast and hinterland. Plunge pool and outdoor bath are great additions to further immerse yourself in the trees and sounds of the birds. We’ve visited Byron a number of times and the actual location of Villa Rani is perfect, as all the best walks, towns and villages to explore are all just a short drive in each direction. Hosts are very welcoming and friendly which tops it all off. Highly recommended for couples wanting a relaxing getaway.
— Andy & Nikki.
Absolutely beautiful villa, very clean and organised. So quite and peaceful. Wasn’t Bali but it was definitely the most closest thing to it! Can not wait to come back again.
— Suada & Slaven.
Villa Rani is a one of a kind experience. From walking into the villa you instantly feel a sense of calm. The place is spotlessly clean, and transports you straight to Bali! There are special touches everywhere, such as insense and music on a arrival, a fridge with the essentials, a warm inviting pool, the list goes on. Gayle & Hank really have thought of everything to make your stay perfect! There was even toys, and a swing for our kids and a high chair and a cot. Honestly, this was the best Air bnb we have ever stayed in. So close to Byron and a number of beautiful towns to explore, far enough away to enjoy complete silence too. Thank you Gayle and Hank for hosting us, it was a magical stay.
— Jeff + family.
A very special place so peaceful and quiet. The house is well equipped with everything you could need. The location is very special. Gayle was a fantastic host very responsive before during and after our stay when we reached out to her. Really hope to be back.
— Kerry & Peter.
Beautiful waking up to all the birds and some songs we haven’t observed before. Great gardens to view from several vantage points. Tasteful and solid decor reminded us of our stay in Bali. Welcoming kitchen, functional and relaxing stay with a few luxurious extras. We highly recommend staying at Villa Rani!
— Jeremy & family.
Had an amazing time, every single detail was perfect. Gayle and Hank were so incredibly accommodating of our whole family. Loved our stay, and will definitely be back.
— Ingrid & family.
Couldn’t fault it! Gayle and Hank have put so much thought and effort into this property. It is so comfortable and stylish. It transported us back to Bali with its pagoda style, but its styling was also so lush and on trend. The plunge pool is warm and so relaxing the outdoor bath is hardly needed, but still a delight. The double indoor shower is a fun, romantic touch. The two beds were so comfortable and so easy to sleep with a fan and a/c (which we didn’t even touch). Such amazing views and a relaxing vibe off the back deck. The whole property’s lush gardens and lawns are stunning. We went and explored the hinterland as everything is within an easy drive, including Byron, but mostly we enjoyed just spending time in the villa, cooking in the fully stocked (and gorgeous kitchen) or BBQ outside and spending quality time together! Thank you so much for hosting our honeymoon, we hope to be back!
— Madalein & Tait.
We spent the first two days of our honeymoon here and it was phenomenal! The bath, shower and plunge pool are amazing, views out back so beautiful and the space is much larger than we expected. We had pretty bad weather but the amazing home made us more than happy to enjoy our surroundings
— Megan & Tommy.
Wonderful!!!!! Lovely stunning property. Everything that your heart desires!! Gayle and Hank are wonderful hosts that are always there if you need anything!!! Wonderful place for our dogs . Clean and Gayle has a fabulous eye for detail. Stunning property. Thanks for a wonderful home away from home.
— Kym & Family.
This beautiful little Balinese styled villa is simply excellent - and the pictures don’t quite do it justice. The blend of indoor/outdoor living spaces with spotless yet inviting decor is spot on. The villa is adorned with all modern appliances and beautifully styled touches, so you can relax in luxury. This is truly an excellent space and one that we will genuinely be recommending to friends and family.
And to top it off, Gayle and Hank left a beautiful gift for my girlfriends birthday. Thank you so much for an excellent stay.
— James & Helena.
Wow! What an incredible little slice of heaven. The open air bathroom with double shower head was next level. Bathroom goals!! Air con and the plunge pool were a real treat on those hot days. Beautiful, private villa surrounded by tropical plants and birds - made us feel we were actually in Bali or another world. Gayle was very friendly and warm, and very fast to respond to any questions. She even left us a bottle of red upon arrival. Thank you again. We hope to be back soon!
— Samantha & Hubby.
We loved our stay at Gayle & Hank’s place. The Balinese style Villa far exceeded our expectations & we loved the 3 module living areas, plunge pool & luxury touches. Located in an awesome spot where we felt far removed from the hustle and bustle of Byron Bay but still within a 15 min drive of the centre & all the different shops, beaches and eateries. Would highly recommend this place to anyone! Thank you so much Gayle & Hank.
— Bethany, Austin, Tahlia & Jason.
This is our best experience travelling with AirBnB so far. We can’t go overseas to Bali, but the beautifully designed Villa Rani has brought Bali to the Byron hinterland. Villa Rani is a quiet sanctuary, close enough to visit all of the beautiful sights in the area, sample the fabulous food, and enjoy the tasty cafes and restaurants. From the moment we arrived, the stress and tension just melted away. We were welcomed by a lovely bottle of red and some local luxury chocolates. No need to rush to the shops because there were already plenty of breakfast provisions ready in the fridge. The kitchen has all the conveniences and a great selection of glassware to complement fine wines. Moving through the villa there is the option of a relaxing open lounge area or an indoor lounge with a huge flatscreen great for a rainy evening of movie watching. The bathroom was spectacular, we also took a plunge in the pool, which was wonderfully heated. Bedrooms were super cosy with lovely cool linen sheets. Leading out from the master bedroom was a deck where we enjoyed watching the frolicking cows across the fields and evening sunsets. We’ll be back!
— Kathryn & Cyrus.
Thank you Gayle and family for creating the most incredible Balinese dream come true for us to enjoy. A tropical paradise home away from home with such loving & thoughtful touches throughout from the fresh milk and eggs in the fridge to the bottle of red wine awaiting our arrival, the chocolate surprises we found along the way and a warm welcome from our hosts and their furry friends every day. We loved every minute of our stay. Very family friendly our two year old had the time of her life running around the place so much space the pics don’t even do it the justice it deserves every last detail is exquisite. If you’re thinking about booking it. Do it you won’t regret it x
— Saoirse, Darragh & Fi.