Arriving at Samadhi is like entering into a lavish, private sanctuary in one of Cape Town’s most diverse and scenic suburbs, just a short drive from some of the best beaches and finest vineyards. As you meander your way up the curved driveway, passing the lemon trees and lush gardens, you are immediately whisked away with its tranquility. Cushioned into the backside of table mountain, emerging from the pine forests and natural fynbos, overlooking the majestic Constantiaberg mountain range and rolling valley below, this hideaway hints at being your very own hotel, in the hills of Hout Bay. 

Samadhi – which means harmony in unison with spirit and soul in ancient Sanskrit – gently cascades down the undulating slopes of indigenous wild and manicured gardens into tiers of boundless entertaining, living, reclining and dining spaces. The moment you enter through the antique Indian doors, and climb the staircase towards the main living areas, expansive views of the mountain, the valley and the ocean envelope you and draw you out in a blissful state of wonderment. Though the mountains remain still, they are ever-changing in colour and temperament. The enthralling exhibitions of statement pieces of art – by Dylan Lewis and Lionel Smit – an impressive collection of prints by photographer Freddie Child Villiers, and bespoke pieces of furniture crafted by Andrew Dominic, are all in keeping with the sentiment of refined luxury, layered textures and a modest elegance. Each piece of furniture, placed with intent and function are gushing with comfort and caliber. 

Seven bedroom suites – four of which are ensuite and a further three occupying the little cottage overlooking the all weather tennis court – are the perfect rooms to retreat to, with their neutral, pacifying tones and textures. The hours of the morning might be spent on the sun-loungers with a book, whilst the others are frolicking about in the salt water swimming pool, or perfecting some pretty decent volleys on the court. As afternoon approaches the fancy kitchen beckons and so does the evening’s roast, so whilst one of you cooks up a storm, the other opts for a steam in the hammam. Music will be playing through the state-of-the-art surround system to set the mood. The baton for the cooking duties, the court-side spectating, the steaming and the swimming will be passed throughout the course of each day. It’s a family retreat after all, as such no day would be complete without a gathering around the fire pit, counting the scorecards, gazing up to the magnificent sky, as the mountain air wafts in the night’s breath. After which, you’ll be oh-so-happy to snug yourselves away in the resplendence of your room. Much like that of a five-star hotel.

What we love!

• Did we mention the views. No words or images do them justice. The expansive 180-degree vistas of the nature and village below, are truly breathtaking.
• Evenings spent on the terrace, under the stars, listening the sounds of the birds and resident wildlife inhabiting the mountain immediately behind. Such a blissful spot that’s less than a 30-minute drive from the city centre.
• The property’s high-tech attributes including sophisticated lighting, surround sound, air con in all the rooms in the main house bedrooms, and the master in the cottage. The TV’s in the main house are connected to both satellite tv and internet, so guests viewing preferences are well catered for. 
• The wild and European olive trees, succulent and indigenous gardens, meandering pathways and tall aloe trees. Though the build is relatively modern, the garden feels as if it’s been there for centuries.  
• A housekeeper can be arranged for the duration of your stay. 
• There are tennis rackets available for guests’ use.

What you need to know…

• There’s a gym for your morning workouts or yoga.
• Samadhi is situated within a secure, secluded area of Hout Bay, monitored by 24-hour security.
• The village of Hout Bay is only a 10-minute drive away to a cluster of cafés, supermarkets, restaurants and hotspots for families to eat-out at.
• Myburgh’s Waterfall Ravine hiking trail is a bold but beautiful 2km walk, that starts behind the property. 
• For some fun and frolics visit the Hout Bay Market every Friday, Saturday and Sunday where live music, art, craft, food and fashion is aplenty.
• Drive Chapman’s Peak Drive to the southern part of the Peninsula and stop off at some of the most scenic picnic spots in the world.
• Llandudno Beach is a short drive away, over the Suikerbossie Pass and down through the little community of Llandudno. A perfect spot for a day of beaching.
• The Constantia Wine region is a 20-minute drive away, up the Nek and through the forest to some of the best grapes in the Cape.

Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie