River Crossing Lodge

An imposing stone stairway leads up through the heavy wooden entrance doors into the vast main area and bar overlooking the swimming pool. The spacious dining room opens out onto a wide wraparound terrace with views over Windhoek to one side, and the reserve on the other. An inviting lounge with comfortable leather couches, open fireplace and desert-inspired décor offers a cosy winter retreat. Spa treatments are available in the wellness room, and there is a small curio shop.

Each of the twenty twin or double chalets are en-suite, with showers, and two have baths which make them a favourite choice for honeymoon couples. Six have views across to Windhoek, while the rest face eastwards towards the distant foothills of the Auas Mountains on the far side of the reserve, and perfectly positioned to catch the sunrise. All in all, the rooms have a feeling of quiet comfort, where the surroundings are the main attraction.

Within the reserve, hiking, game drives and guided bush walks are offered. A network of mountain bike trails criss-crosses the bush if you feel like something a bit more strenuous. Horse riding caters for all levels of experience and is a great way to get close to the wildlife, which includes giraffe, sable, roan antelope, and the rare chance of spotting a leopard or cheetah. Windhoek is close by, the gateway to the Namib and its wealth of desert attractions.