Future Found Sanctuary in Hout Bay by Newmark

Future Found Sanctuary is the ideal place for travellers who wish to immerse themselves in nature and relax in beautiful surroundings that include a balance between stunning architecture, well-appointed rooms, luxurious finishes, and a world-class art collection. The property is one of a kind and sets the standard for five-star luxury in South Africa.

Not the sanctuary it promises to be, unfortunately. We were drawn in by the photos and the way the place was presented as a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by nature. While the setting is indeed beautiful, the experience didn’t live up to how it was sold. We chose full board thinking it would be relaxing to have all meals on-site, but only lunch was decent. Dinner was overly salty and heavy, and one of us ended up with food poisoning, so we barely touched breakfast the next day. While that can happen anywhere, it’s not what you’d expect after such a polished presentation. More frustrating was the constant smell of burned meat and wood in the main house, which lingered on our clothes and made the space feel far from serene. The design and overall attention to detail also didn’t reflect the calm, refined atmosphere promised online. That said, the staff were kind and did their best. But overall, the stay didn’t match the image or expectations created by the property’s own storytelling.

Our last stop of our 3.5 week tour of the Western Cape was 2 nights in a room in the Villa Verte section of the hotel. It actually has 3 separate parts with the recent introduction of the 2 pod rooms in the forest (of which will try next time). Huge room in Villa Verte with a good sized balcony overlooking the forest below. Plenty of facilities on hand in the room with a great sized bathroom to boot. But this place is not about the room its about the whole experience and how it makes you feel that your watch is going bcakwards! Pool at the Villa Verte and pool at Maison Noir take you pick! Breakfast at either location if you want. Cup of coffee? just ask one of the butlers who will happily provide (Thanks Keith) Staying in for dinner than just let them know and they will offer you a menu choice and we did that at the communal table in Maison Noir. Glass of bubbly? Keith or Prosper will oblige. Great gym and the first one I have ever used on holiday. Steam room? Of course you can. Massage? Yep got that as well. How about a movie? Well you can book the cinema room and order fresh popcorn with your glass of fizz. What a place ! Big shout out to Andrew the manager for his friendly engaging chat and all the tips he gave us for our next trip (we are definitley doing the Karoo mate). 2 nights felt like a week and we dined out at La Colombe on the 2nd night. Definitley a haven to return to in 2026!

A flawless stay. The attentive, generous service was a standout part of the experience. The grounds are beautiful, the rooms spacious and comfortable and the chefs catered to every dietary need. I could not recommend more highly. My only regret is not staying longer!

Absolutely stunning, extremely well maintained property and surrounding grounds. We also experienced exceptional levels of guest service from every single member of the team. Outstanding all round 4 night stay.

It was a pretty amazing place to relax. Everything about it was great and would highly recommend for a few days or longer.