Words by Yvonne C Mtengwa

Easily one of the most stand-out private villas I have ever seen, is Found Sanctuary by Newmark Hotels & Reserves, located in the picturesque Hout Bay. Everything about the merging of space, decor and exceptional services nothing short of a revelation, and a testament to Newmark’s ability to craft sanctuaries that transcend the ordinary.

You’ll find the property nestled amidst the verdant slopes of Hout Bay, with breathtaking views of the mountains and cloud cover by morning, strikingly blue skies by day, especially when the weather in Cape Town and her surrounding areas decides to show off. This exclusive retreat offers a profound sense of tranquillity and rejuvenation, truly living up to its name. It’s a place that beckons, a destination that deserves a coveted spot on every discerning traveller’s bucket list, promising an escape where luxury meets a deep reverence for nature.

The Sanctuary, I came to find out at check in, is home to two distinct yet equally captivating villas: Villa Verte and La Maison Noir. Each a masterpiece in its own right, celebrates a unique blend of architectural brilliance and unparalleled comfort.

Villa Verte: Where Nature Embraces Design

Our home for a few days was Villa Verte, an architectural marvel that seems to organically grow out of the landscape, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living, and ever so subtly awarding its guests a sense of curated equilibrium. Green walls rise from the dense foliage as you are shuttled up a short ascending driveaway. Its design is a symphony of natural materials – concrete, timber, stone, and glass – seamlessly integrated to create a light-filled space that feels both expansive and intimately connected to its surroundings.

Good morning from Villa Verte!

A deep desire to connect with my surroundings always has me sleep with the curtains open. And so knowing that waking to the gentle whisper of the wind through indigenous plants is always an experience I mentally sign up for, on my first morning, the call was to venture out of bed which was strategically placed to face the outdoors. I walked through what were large, retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto the vast deck of my master suite. I simply could not resist the inviting view of panoramic vistas that stretch as far as my eyes could see.

With a cup of espresso made from my little corner coffee making station adjacent to the compact lounge with an imposing entertainment centre, I immersed myself in the cool morning breeze, acknowledging just how much the dramatic peaks of Cape Town’s mountain range never disappoint. I couldn’t help but imagine how I would spend my mornings should I ever make the decision to relocate to Africa’s almost southernmost city. So pretty, so incredibly serene.

Quickly snapping out of my mind’s wondering, each sip of my coffee carried with it an air of gratitude, and marvel at the power of the human mind in designing a hospitality gem like Future Found Sanctuary. I further took my time in scanning the terrain, dotted with private villas and cottages, all of which form Hout Bay’s charm.

Immersed in luxury

Inside, the villa exudes a sense of calm sophistication that soothes the soul. Each of the meticulously appointed suites offers unparalleled privacy and comfort, with plush furnishings, luxurious en-suite bathrooms, and private balconies that serve as personal viewing platforms for Hout Bay’s majestic scenery. The common areas, including a serene lounge warmed by a fireplace and a well-equipped chef’s kitchen of golds and bronze surfaces.

Lounging spaces are designed for both quiet contemplation and joyous social interaction yet maintain an air of understated elegance. A highlight for me was the expansive pool, surrounded by more lush greenery, creating an idyllic spot for contemplation and leisure under the African sun. A stroll through the gardens leads to natural plunge pool, for anyone who dares immerse themselves in its cool waters. Sensorium Spa and Fitness Centre, as well as an onsite Yoga Studio, bring the elements of wellbeing together, whisking you into a haven of rest that endorses Future Found Sanctuary as the ultimate retreat when in Hout Bay.

La Maison Noir: A Bold Statement of Modern Elegance

In striking contrast yet harmonious coexistence, La Maison Noir stands as a bold statement of modern elegance, an artistic triumph that captivates from the moment you arrive. Its name, translated from “The Black House,” hints at its dramatic, sleek exterior, which houses an interior that is surprisingly warm, inviting, and filled with curated artistic touches. This villa is a triumph of contemporary design, characterized by clean lines, expansive spaces bathed in natural light, plush furnishings, and a carefully selected collection of local and international art and designer pieces that creates an atmosphere of sophisticated chic.

La Maison Noir boasts incredibly generous living areas, including a state-of-the-art open kitchen where culinary magic unfolds, a stylish dining room also in full view of the kitchen, with the option for meal set ups in the cellar or other nooks surrounding the central lounge space.

The bedrooms are true sanctuaries of comfort and style, each thoughtfully designed with private access to secluded outdoor spaces, ensuring a seamless flow between inside and out. The villa’s entertainment features are exceptional, including a plush private cinema for cozy movie nights and a captivating central courtyard that serves as a serene oasis, ideal for evening cocktails. The large outdoor pool, framed by the villa’s striking architecture, with several water features lining the exterior walls, provides additional spaces for unwinding to the sound of flowing water.

A Culinary Ethos Rooted in Sustainability: A Feast for the Senses

The dining experience at Future Found Sanctuary is a cornerstone of its luxury offering, built upon a strong culinary ethos that champions fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bespoke gastronomic journeys. Every meal felt like a celebration, meticulously prepared by talented chefs who tailored menus to our preferences, showcasing the rich bounty of the Western Cape.

What makes this culinary journey truly remarkable is the Sanctuary’s profound commitment to sustainability. Much of the vibrant produce that graces your plate is grown right on-site in their organic gardens, ensuring unparalleled freshness and a true farm-to-fork experience. This dedication extends to their responsible practices, including harvesting rainwater for irrigation and general use, significantly reducing their environmental footprint and embodying a holistic approach to luxury living.

Breakfasts were leisurely affairs, featuring an array of fresh fruits, artisanal pastries, and perfectly cooked hot dishes, enjoyed with the morning sun illuminating the swimming pool’s surface in full view of our meal table. Lunches were often light yet flavourful, served al fresco also by the pool. Dinners, however, were truly exceptional. Whether it was a gourmet steak dinner under the stars, a sophisticated multi-course tasting menu paired with exquisite South African wines, or a comforting homemade meal prepared with ingredients harvested just steps away, each dish was a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to quality, creativity, and conscious living. The emphasis on freshness, flavour, and sustainable practices, combined with impeccable presentation, made every dining moment a memorable and enriching part of the Sanctuary experience.

Architectural Distinctiveness, Thoughtful Amenities, and a Sustainable Heart

Beyond the individual charm of Villa Verte and La Maison Noir, the entire Future Found Sanctuary property is a testament to distinctive architectural design and a deep respect for its natural environment. The villas are precisely positioned to maximize natural light and capture the awe-inspiring views, with intelligent use of space and materials that enhance the sense of peace and privacy. The landscaping is thoughtfully integrated, featuring indigenous flora that blends seamlessly with the surrounding fynbos, creating a truly harmonious environment.

The on-site amenities further elevate the sanctuary experience, ensuring every desire is met. Beyond the private pools at each villa, guests have access to serene garden pathways perfect for gentle strolls, and dedicated spaces for yoga and meditation that capitalize on the breathtaking natural backdrop. This boutique hotel actively puts sustainability at the forefront of the experience, from their innovative water harvesting systems to their organic gardens that supply the kitchen. The attentive staff are always on hand to arrange bespoke activities, from private guided hikes and rejuvenating wellness treatments to immersive culinary classes utilizing the fresh garden produce, ensuring that every desire is met with grace, efficiency, and an eco-conscious spirit.

Newmark Hotels & Reserves: Masters of African Luxury

Newmark Hotels and Reserves has long been synonymous with unparalleled luxury hospitality, curating exceptional experiences in some of Africa’s most sought-after destinations. With a deep commitment to showcasing the continent’s natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality, Newmark properties consistently deliver an elevated standard of service, exquisite design, and a profound connection to their surroundings.

From bustling cityscapes to serene wildernesses, Newmark ensures that every stay is not just a trip, but a transformative journey into the heart of African luxury. Their growing portfolio is a testament to their dedication to creating memorable and truly indulgent escapes, and each stay I’ve relished at every single one of their properties, was one I’ll cherish for seasons to come.