Saddle Peak Buddha House

The Stars Up Above in your Eyes

This hilltop home was once owned by legendary singer-songwriter Van Morrison, and it's said he recorded some of his most famous songs here. But over the years it has played host to a number of other luminaries, from former president of the Soviet Union Mikhail Gorbachev to the late writer Carlos Castaneda, who is believed to have written two of his books while perched on the giant rock formation that sits next to the property.

While it has been home to legends, this is not a luxury mansion. It's a place to unwind, put your feet up and breathe. It's a space that's full of memories, and its colorful, eclectic interiors, with Mexican, Tex-Mex and Asian elements, have a feel that's unique to Topanga Canyon, a bohemian enclave of artists and creatives in the hills above Malibu. 

Come for the dramatic deck with its shimmering pool, and the unforgettable views across rock formations to the ocean below. 

The vacation home for rent in California is inspired by its fashion-designer owner's love for different cultures, with vibrant eco-friendly paint colors bringing life to the walls. We love the original Malibu tiles in the entranceway and the Van Morrison memorabilia in the bedroom. Each room of the house has large windows or sliding glass doors that offer great views of the ocean and mountains. 

With its 3,000sqft deck, the focus is on outdoor living. Surrounded by thousands of acres of untouched natural parkland, which are filled with owls, coyotes, deer and rabbits, this is wild Southern California at its finest. Soak it all in, day or night. In fact, you'll be tempted to sleep outside. 

AROUND

Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, this vacation home for rent in California sits high above the throng but close enough to access all that Los Angeles has to offer. If you're into surfing, head down to Malibu. Shopping? Santa Monica is half an hour away. Want to stay closer to home? With its 10,000-acre State Park, Topanga is famous for hiking, biking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities, with panoramic views around every corner.

Topanga has a mountain village feel, with an outdoor theater, yoga studios, quirky boutiques, great restaurants, and art studios. Home to many musicians, it also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including Topanga Days and Topanga Earth Day. The Topanga Film Institute hosts an annual Film Festival featuring movies from all over the world. 

There is minimal public transport (although ridesharing is available), so a car is highly recommended.

LOCATION

Topanga, Los Angeles County, California, US. Nearest airport: Los Angeles International (40 minutes).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round.