Villa Vista Guesthouse

As you enter the tranquil reception area, you'll be forgiven for forgetting that you’re near the centre of Windhoek. The mood continues in the spacious guest lounge, which leads to a central courtyard and oasis-like swimming pool – a quiet place to relax after a day's sightseeing. Breakfast is served on the covered terrace, with views across the city to the distant mountains, and it’s a great spot to enjoy a sundowner or two before heading into town for dinner.

There are 14 double or twin rooms, including three self-catering units, set around the sheltered inner courtyard. Each room has a unique, freshly modern design, with calm earthy tones and crisp linens. A clever touch is the use of glass, candles and wood to bring a natural element to the otherwise contemporary interiors. Bathrooms are en suite, and most rooms have a bath as well as a shower. Ground-floor rooms have private patios; the upper rooms have small balconies.

Windhoek’s location in the centre of Namibia makes this city a gateway to some of the region’s most iconic wilderness areas and adventure hotspots. Day trips to the surrounding desert could include dune boarding, quad-bike tours, horse riding and mountain biking, and there are a number of nature reserves within easy driving distance. Closer to home, the city has a wide choice of restaurants, bars and shops, and there’s a small gym and sauna at the guesthouse.