A smiling man and woman standing in front of a black off-road vehicle outdoors with trees in the background.
Close-up image of a light-colored wooden surface with visible grain.

Meet The Owners

Dan and Darlene met in Austin, Texas, but their roots trace back to small towns in Nebraska and Texas. From the beginning, they shared a vision of building a life connected to the outdoors, where they could raise their three children surrounded by open space, wildlife, and a slower pace of life.

That vision led them to the Texas Hill Country, where they found the setting that would eventually become Asante - a place designed not only for living, but for bringing people together.

A VISION SHAPED BY TRAVEL

Through years of travel, especially across Africa, Dan and Darlene found themselves drawn to places that felt peaceful, welcoming, and connected to the natural environment.

They often described it as feeling essentially at home.

That idea became the foundation for Asante. Rather than simply creating a place to stay, they set out to build a space where guests could experience that same sense of comfort and connection - whether for a quiet retreat or a meaningful gathering.

The name Asante, derived from Swahili, means “thank you.” It reflects both their appreciation for the experiences that inspired the property and the way they welcome each guest who arrives.

BRINGING ASANTE TO LIFE

As their vision expanded, so did the property.

Asante developed into a private Hill Country retreat that blends Texas ranch character with influences from their travels, especially in East Africa. Each space reflects a different style, while still feeling connected to the land and surroundings.

Rather than a single building, Asante became a collection of unique lodging spaces designed to offer both comfort and a sense of place - creating an environment where gatherings feel natural, unhurried, and memorable.

ASANTE TODAY

Today, Asante is a private lodging retreat in Dripping Springs, offering accommodations for up to 34 overnight guests across five distinct homes. It has become a destination for:

  • group stays

  • weddings

  • retreats

  • and meaningful gatherings

Guests come to celebrate, reconnect, and spend time together in a setting that feels both distinctly Texan and globally inspired.

While the property has grown, the original vision remains the same. Asante was created to be more than a place to stay. It is a place to slow down, reconnect, and create lasting memories in the Texas Hill Country.