Saddle Peak House

  • Location: Beach / Coast
    Restaurants: 15 mins drive
    Malibu: 23km (20 mins by car)
    Beach: 15km (20 mins by car)
    Venice Beach: 30km (35 mins by car)
  • Los Angeles Airport (LAX): 45km (45 mins by car)
    Car recommended
    Free parking

Saddle Peak House is one of our all-time favorites. You will absolutely love your stay.
Don't miss out on the unique opportunity to sleep in such an architectural masterpiece!
Be completely immersed in the amazing views of the Californian landscape and the Pacific Ocean.

You'll need to have a car to get to this spectacular hide-away.

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An introduction to Saddle Peak House

How would you describe Saddle Peak House in a nutshell?

The Saddle Peak House is a secluded retreat in the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It offers a sublime and timeless place within the wild part of Southern California that has existed for generations but which very few have experienced.

A question for the architect, Michael Sant: What was your inspiration to create Saddle Peak House and offer it as a luxury vacation rental?

The inspiration was to see how successfully architecture could crystallize and accentuate the most exceptional aspects of the site. Every component of the house’s construction is about strengthening a sense of connection to the landscape and the natural beauty that’s all around you.

The idea of the vacation rental has been growing in my practice for a number of years. This project has become a way of communicating architecture’s role in enhancing the experience of the things we value to a larger audience. To create something like this, and then have the opportunity to interact with a diverse set of travellers about the experience, can be extremely rewarding.

Please tell us a bit more about the architecture and the house, Michael.

The house explores several oppositional relationships – heavy vs. light, transparent vs. opaque, rooted vs. floating – that combine to create a harmonious sense of balance and encourage a profoundly intimate experience of nature.

The house is quite modest in terms of interior square footage but the sweeping experience of the mountains and the sea is almost overwhelming. The house blurs the boundaries between inside and out with giant sliding doors opening onto three decks and allowing the mountain breezes to pass through. One side of the house looks over the Pacific Ocean, feeling very much like a bird’s eye view, while the other is earthbound and intimate, taking in the massive rock outcropping reflected, together with the sky above, in the pure geometry of the infinity-edge pool.

The house and studio are detailed with the same materials and share an alignment across the long site, suggesting an expansive horizontal domain and encompassing the entirety of the mountain range.

How would you describe the atmosphere inside Saddle Peak House?

There is a feeling of being completely immersed in the landscape. The outside swirls around you affording amazing views of the California landscape – the Pacific Ocean, massive rock formations, birds of prey and native plants in bloom. It’s a feeling that never leaves you.

The interplay of concrete, wood, steel and glass, creates a surprisingly intimate environment. Furnishings culled from all over the world, and selected based on their appropriateness for each unique space in the house, reinforce a sense of design integrity and create a harmonious whole. I think the design avoids false notes. It’s a calm and reassuring feeling when things are well resolved and interconnected.

To you personally, what’s so special about staying at Saddle Peak House?

It's a treat to find yourself in a place where you can truly tune into everything in your environment – a wide variety of birds stopping to drink from the pool, hummingbirds darting from flower to flower, mist swirling up through the mountains – as the sun slowly rolls across the sky. It’s an incredibly saturated experience of place.

There’s a sense of going back in time to experience California as very few people have. It’s a wild place and so quiet that you actually hear the bees and hummingbirds. The native plants on the property are found throughout the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains, connecting you to that broader context.

This mountain range set against the sea presents the beauty of California at its most iconic. It’s a rare and timeless thing to dwell in such a place and, for me, there’s nothing more restorative.

And for you, Michael, what’s been the biggest reward to you about creating and renting out Saddle Peak House?

It’s a bit of a proof of concept. I’ve had a heartfelt belief in the power of architecture to make a difference on a deep, personal level, creating an enhanced awareness of the passing day and surrounding beauty. As an architect, the idea of expanding the number of people I can share this with is a compelling idea. Person after person will be able to come here and capture the best of our collective efforts and do so in a joyful and relaxing way.

Saddle Peak House
Saddle Peak House pool
Saddle Peak House
Terrace and pool
Terrace and desert garden
Terrace
Living area
Kitchen and views
Staircase
Bedroom
Aproach
Guest house
Guest house
Saddle Peak House in the evening
Saddle Peak House at night

Saddle Peak House rooms & rates

The vacation rental has four bedrooms and can sleep up to 8. In the main building there are two bedrooms with a shared deck facing the rock and the pool. The living room, dining room and kitchen fill out the other wing of the plan with views of the Pacific to one side, and the pool, rock and studio to the other. The living room and kitchen also have adjacent decks that have been carved into the plan.

As the natural contours fall away, we capture a beautiful space for the master suite – with a king size bed, bathroom, writing desk and walk in closet – and the only earthbound room in the entire project. When you open the master suite's large sliding door, you are on grade with sweeping views of the Pacific and, to the south, the floating structure of the living room as it hovers above the landscape.

The studio includes a bedroom, living room, kitchenette and bathroom.

  • Saddle Peak House for 6-8 people / 240 m²
    2020 / night
    • 4 Double bedrooms
    • 2 Bathrooms (ensuite)
    • 1 Bathroom
    • 2 Living rooms
    • 2 Dining rooms
    • 1 Kitchen
    • 1 Kitchenette
    • Terrace
    • Balcony
    • Fireplace
    • Sea view
    • Air conditioning
Included in the rates
Rates are on a self-catering basis.
Extra charges
The first 5 gallons/day of propane consumed heating the pool and/or spa each day is free of charge. Any additional propane consumed is charged at US$ 3.25/gallon as are any pay-per-view movie rentals. No Transient Occupancy Tax is charged for stays of 31 nights or more.
Children & Extra beds
Children of all ages are welcome provided that a Pool Agreement is signed.
Minimum stay
3 nights
Check in time
after 16:00
Check out time
before 11:00
Discounts/Special offers
13% off for bookings of more than 28 nights

Facilities & services

  • Air conditioning
  • Terrace
  • Children welcome
  • Swimming pool
  • Maid service
  • WiFi
  • Fireplace
  • Garden
  • Washing machine
  • TV
  • Central heating
  • Music system
  • Movies/DVDs
  • BBQ area
  • Iron & Board
  • Hair dryer
  • Spa

Additional cleaning during your stay can easily be arranged .

Things to do in California & Los Angeles

  • Art / Culture
  • Shopping / Markets
  • Wildlife / Animals
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Horseback riding
  • Scuba diving
  • Boat trips

The best thing to do is to just relax. Bring some good books, have a few drinks and a barbecue, swim as the sun sets or stargaze from the spa, and be sure to leave time to really bring down your pulse and absorb the place.

When you’re finally ready to venture out, you should visit some local restaurants, two of which are unique to this mountain setting – Saddle Peak Lodge, about 15 mins away, and the Old Place, which is about twice that. On the coast try Malibu Farm as well as the more upscale Mastro’s Ocean Club and Nobu.

If you want to start exploring Los Angeles, I suggest the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades or a drive to Venice, a really nice beachside community with excellent restaurants and shops to explore.

In LA, the Broad Museum (Diller Scofidio + Renfro) will be opening soon right next to the Disney Concert Hall (Frank Gehry) and not far from the Cathedral of our Lady of the Angels (Rafael Moneo). Grand Central Market and the Bradbury Building are also just a short stroll away. There’s so much to explore in downtown Los Angeles.

Other great architectural destinations in Los Angeles include the Schindler House, the Eames House, the Getty Museum, Santa Monica Pier and the Venice boardwalk, Griffith Park Observatory and the Hollyhock House at Barnsdall Art Park.

Saddle Peak House reviews

5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Such a fantastic location, stunning views and kind host. Really wonderful and can't wait to come back (hopefully with the family next time).
Joachim B.
stayed at Saddle Peak House
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Great stay at Saddle Peak House. Goktug and Mary are super helpful & accommodating. And that doesn't cover the breathtaking view, amazing architect, and perfectionist attention to every detail in the house.
Kun S.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in January 2024
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Saddle Peak really is a special place: an exceptional home, set within beautiful grounds, in a stunning location and it felt an absolute joy and privilege to stay. We were able to quickly feel at home as Goktug (owner) is very warm and welcoming, likewise Mary (manager) who was always on hand and helpful.

The pictures simply do not do the place justice and if you want to experience the delights of LA / Malibu yet retreat into a home above the clouds you would find it hard to beat Saddle Peak and we can't recommend it highly enough. Thanks too to Welcome Beyond who made the booking process very simple and efficient.
Paul G.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in October 2023
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Great house. Luxury an well Designer a fantastic view from nearly every room. We love it and we will come back ad soon as possible.

Kind regards
Matthias
Matthias P.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in July 2022
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Thank you Michael and Mary for being such lovely hosts! It was a beautiful property to celebrate our anniversary, it’s one we will forever cherish and remember :) We hope we can visit for a longer stay in the future. <3

Best,
Nastasha
Nastasha T.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in December 2021
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Incredible experience. This home is STUNNING inside and out. And even more beautiful in person. Stayed for a long weekend with a group of friends and, beyond its beauty, found it very comfortable and well appointed. Not a single complaint!
Jakw F.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in November 2021
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Saddle Peak House is absolutely gorgeous! The pool and hot tub are amazing, the view is picturesque, and the esthetic is just lovely. We loved our stay and would definitely come again.
Jessica P. (United States)
stayed at Saddle Peak House in September 2021
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Absolutely gorgeous space. Truly special. And the view! House is very well-stocked and thought out.
Celeste H. (United States)
stayed at Saddle Peak House in May 2021
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Our stay at the Saddle Peak House was magical to say the least! Both Michael and Mary were very responsive to any questions we had and made our stay a seamless experience. Would definitely stay again!
Nicole S.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in April 2021
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
We were 3 couples and stayed at Saddle Peak for 3 nights in early October. The house is absolutely stunning and I can't recommend it enough. We live in LA so it's a close 30 minute drive outside of the city. We're architecture lovers and still can't believe a house of this calibre is available to rent. In short, book now, invite a few close friends and enjoy a total retreat just outside the city. We heated the pool all weekend and spent the days/nights relaxing to the ocean views. The kitchen is equipped to make amazing meals and you really don't need to leave once you're there. We're planning to make this a yearly tradition!
Ryan M.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in October 2020
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Saddle Peak exceeded our expectations and truly is a one of a kind of experience in LA. The attention to detail and angles of this house are perfectly built into the natural landscape on 2 acres. We also loved having the guest house separate from the main house for our group size of 7. Waking up to a cup of coffee with the fog rolling over the mountains and a bluejay flying right by you is the perfect way to start any day. Our favorite part of the house is the walk out into the canyon to see panoramic ocean and mountain views during the amazing sunset. The Sonos sound system acoustics were brilliant and we loved the indoor/outdoor layout with the huge glass sliding doors by the infinity pool. Thanks for an amazing weekend. I for sure will be back in the future to unplug on a week long getaway!
Dan J. (United States)
stayed at Saddle Peak House in September 2020
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Great!
Gerhard D.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in March 2019
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
We found our happy place!! Love the house!! View is to die for! Owner is wonderful!!
Doungkeaw B.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in April 2018
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Overall rating = 5/5! This house is perfect in every way. It comfortably held one parent, 4 kids and one grandparent for a week. High about the ocean and offering spectacular views from all around, it”s as if a David Hockney painting came to life and found its way to Topanga. Breathtaking in every way, I hope to return.
Eric P.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in January 2018
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Perfect getaway; cool home; fantastic Owner....Words cannot describe this property!
Andrew P.
stayed at Saddle Peak House in September 2017
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
It was amazing. Loved the whole aspect, views and area we were in. Super successful for all thanks
Irene C. (UK)
stayed at Saddle Peak House in August 2016
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
5 out of 5! The Saddle Peak property is everything it promised and more. The pictures, though stunning, don't even fully capture the beauty and serenity of the place. We would rate our stay a 5.Our family of 5 was able to enjoy the home and its surroundings immensely. Several hikes are located just a short distance from the house, and the pool was a big favorite. Many days the home was literally a "home base" when we took short trips down the canyon to Malibu for the beach, surfing, dinners; other days we simply hung out and enjoyed the serenity and beauty of Saddle Peak.
Susan A. (USA)
stayed at Saddle Peak House in August 2016
5 of 5 stars
Verfied Welcome Beyond stay
Amazingly beautiful! The simplicity, clarity and beauty of the design inspired my heart, mind and soul. I am a better person for having stayed at the Saddle Peak House. Amazingly beautiful! Owner - Amazingly conscientious!
Ruth L. (USA)
stayed at Saddle Peak House in August 2016

The location of Saddle Peak House

The remarkable thing about this location is that you’re close to the city while still experiencing the total relaxation of a nature-oriented retreat. The house is located 20 mins from Malibu, 30 mins from Santa Monica, 40 mins from Venice Beach, and 50 mins from the Los Angeles airport. You can explore LA, but after a short drive home, you’re back in a world unto itself. It’s a combination that’s quite rare.

The nearest beaches – Las Tunas, Las Flores, and Topanga State Beach – are just 20 mins away. There are two routes to the coast, via Topanga Canyon Boulevard or via Las Flores Canyon Road. Head north to Malibu Surfrider, Dan Blocker, Point Dume, Zuma and County Line, or south to Will Rogers, Santa Monica and Venice Beach.