Cape Cross Lodge

Named after a stone pillar erected by Portuguese explorer Diego Cão, Cape Cross Lodge occupies the only privately owned land on this coastline. On the hotel's lower deck is the reception area and well-stocked curio shop, leading to the bar and lounge, two cosy dining areas and a long patio overlooking the beach and moody ocean. Both lounge and dining areas have individual fireplaces for cold days (conditions can be bitter) and sea breezes cool the interior when it's hot.

Accommodation is in 18 standard suites and two luxurious semi-suites with en-suite bathrooms and panoramic views of the Atlantic and the seals and porpoises that leap and frolic in the surf. The ground-floor rooms have direct access to the beach, whereas those on the first floor have private balconies with wooden deck chairs and tables. The rooms are spacious, with deep beds and good linen, tranquil decor and thoughtful accessories.

The main attraction here is the massive colony of Cape fur seals that are within striking distance but not so close that you can smell them. Other activities are also available at the lodge – excellent fishing, a collection of paintings that can be browsed and purchased, and a museum that houses items left by earlier visitors. Explore the surroundings on mountain-bike or quad-bike excursions, grab some photographic opportunities and visit lovely Swakopmund.