Sandwiched between the vast emptiness of the Namib desert and the cold currents of the Atlantic ocean, Swakopmund remains one of Africa's most unique and quirky colonial creations: Bavarian church spires alternate with palm trees whilst cool ocean mists cloak the town and surrounding dunes in a blanket that feels almost surreal in its other-worldliness.
Owner Claudine fell under the spell of the place and revamped one of its most flamboyant townhouses to create an intimate guesthouse full of art and colour. Many of Villa Margherita's original features remain - elegant staircases, fireplaces, cornicing, panelling - but these now serve as backdrop to big canvases of pop art, eye-catching designer lamps and an eclectic mix of sculpture, masks and photography. There's a big dash of deco and a mood that is both lighthearted and sybaritic: count on a big comfortable room, great food and kindly care from a team of excellent staff.
Highs
- Wonderful food
- This is a place with an instant feel-good factor, much of it to do with the striking use of colour throughout the Villa
- Off street parking is a big plus if you're trundling around Namibia in a loaded-up 4x4
- You're within an easy stroll of all of Swakopmund's most interesting sights
- You can expect masses of TLC from the charming and ever-friendly staff
Lows
- Be prepared for the town to be bathed in cool mists for a large part of the year
- The restaurant is closed on Sunday nights
Best time to go
When you choose to visit Swakopmund will probably be influenced by the game viewing season in Etosha and other parts of the country rather than what's happening with the weather in Swakopmund.
Bear in mind that during the months of July and August coastal fog envelops the town even though by driving just 10kms inland you're guaranteed day-long sunshine.
The town sees a big influx of visitors from South Africa and Windhoek in December and January who are atrracted by the cooler temperatures of the coastal belt. The best time of year to visit is during the Namibian summer - December through to mid March - when temperatures are mild and the lighter mists burn off earlier in the day.
But don't think too much about the sun factor: you're guaranteed plenty of that in other parts of the country and Swakopmund has a unique appeal at any time of year.
Bear in mind that during the months of July and August coastal fog envelops the town even though by driving just 10kms inland you're guaranteed day-long sunshine.
The town sees a big influx of visitors from South Africa and Windhoek in December and January who are atrracted by the cooler temperatures of the coastal belt. The best time of year to visit is during the Namibian summer - December through to mid March - when temperatures are mild and the lighter mists burn off earlier in the day.
But don't think too much about the sun factor: you're guaranteed plenty of that in other parts of the country and Swakopmund has a unique appeal at any time of year.
Our top tips
Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat trip out along the Skeleton Coast to see its abundant marine and birdlife: you may well see dolphins just yards from your boat.
Location
Villa Margherita is on the corner of Daniel Tjongarero Street and Otavi Street, in Swakopmund which is on the coast of Namibia in SW Africa.
By Air
Swakopmund is the closest airport but international flights arrive at Windhoek (Hosea Kutako). Click on the links below for a list of airlines serving these airports.
From the Airport
Most people fly into Windhoek and self-drive. But if you fly into Swakopmund, the journey time to the hotel is around 15 minutes in a taxi.
By Car
If you want to hire a vehicle in Namibia, see our car rental recommendations; or ask our Tailormade Safari Operator who can give you a wider range of options.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Namibia and getting around
Airports:
- Swakopmund 10.0 km SWP
- Windhoek Hosea Kutako 0.0 km WDH
Other:
- Beach 0.7 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.3 km