Casa Madera, a villa rental in Samaná, Dominican Republic

An Architectural Retreat by the Sea

This restored Brazilian timber house is a soulful family retreat, a testament to heritage and handcrafted simplicity on the Samaná peninsula. Owners Jennifer and Kenard Bunkley, guided by their Dominican roots, reimagined this 2003 structure in 2024, preserving its past as a sailor’s club reception house. Their personal vision was to create a sanctuary of quiet introspection that stands in gentle contrast to the wild, fragrant energy of Las Terrenas, offering a deeply authentic connection to the land.

The home’s atmosphere is born from its Brazilian peroba rosa wood, a honeyed material that informs every design choice. The owners eschewed trends, instead collaborating with local carpenters to craft every new element, from the kitchen cabinetry to custom furnishings by local artisan studio Madera Viva.

Three tranquil queen bedrooms offer restful privacy, with the master suite opening directly onto the pool deck. The home’s social heart is its seamless flow from the open-plan living area to the expansive wooden terrace, with its private pool. The experience is elevated by dedicated staff who manage daily breakfast and cleaning, allowing for a relaxed and restorative escape.

The tropical gardens, designed by Samaná Flora Collective, envelop the structure, with native greenery creeping up to the decking to blur the line between architecture and nature.

This vacation home for rent in Las Terrenas sleeps up to six guests.

Layout

Living Space: The open-plan living and kitchen area features a smart TV, a breakfast nook, and a fully equipped kitchen with stove, oven, refrigerator, coffee maker, blender, and filtered water.

Master Bedroom: Queen-size bed, en-suite bathroom, and direct access to the pool deck

Bedroom Two: Queen-size bed

Bedroom Three: Queen-size bed

Two full bathrooms

Outdoors: An expansive wooden deck serves as the centerpiece, featuring a private pool with lounge chairs, outdoor bar, barbecue grill and dining area.

Amenities & services

Daily cook (for breakfast) and daily housekeeping included. Full-time maintenance and security staff on site. Private chef (lunch/dinner) and personal grocery shopper are available for an additional fee.

Air conditioning in all bedrooms, Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi, solar panel backup system, washer, Smart TV, portable speaker. Pack 'n play/travel crib available upon request. Exterior security cameras.

Around

Nestled in a quiet enclave a two-minute walk from the shores of Playa Estillero, the villa serves as an ideal base for exploring the Samaná Peninsula. The vibrant town of Las Terrenas is a short drive (15 min) away, its streets lined with a charming mix of European-style cafes, local boutiques and exceptional restaurants set right on the sand. World-famous beaches like Playa Bonita and Playa Cosón are within easy reach, offering pristine sand and surf. For adventure, the spectacular El Limón waterfall is a must-see. A car or ATV rental is recommended to fully experience the region.