In a peaceful corner on the edge of Swakopmund, two minutes’ walking distance from the Vogelstrand beach, with a backyard view over the dunes, you will find Atlantic Villa Guesthouse.
When well-known lawyer, businessman and property developer, Gerhard van der Merwe, helped build and design his family house, he probably had no idea that this would one day become luxurious holiday accommodation that would attract big names such as Wesley Snipes. And Wesley, who hired Gerhard’s then house as his home away from home while working on a movie, was where it all started. Gerhard eventually bought the two lots in front of his house and started developing Atlantic Villa Guesthouse. Accommodation options There are currently five rooms in the former house; three self-catering apartments, one of which has two bedrooms and is ideal for bigger families; and four luxury suites. The luxury suites, which will keep the most demanding techno-junkie happy, are equipped with large flat-screen televisions, microwave ovens, fully stocked minibars (with champagne), espresso machines, kettles, and kitchen utensils, should you want to prepare your own food.
Large windows along an entire wall of the lounge afford unhindered views over the ocean. Each of the bedrooms has a king-sized bed, a couch and closets lined with mirrors that make the rooms appear even bigger than they already are. Lamp covers, blankets, pillows and bedside mats covered with soft, round bubbles depict the pebble theme of the stones lining the garden. Blinds are activated by the touch of a button and all rooms have built-in speakers. You’ll find even more luxury in the bathroom, with speakers connected to your iPod playing your favourite tune, while rainbow-coloured water will wash off the day’s adventures. The golden ‘good night’ chocolate on your pillow will complement peaceful sleep. The suites were designed by local interior designer, Sandra Lamprecht.
In addition to all these luxuries, self-catering units have their own indoor fireplace, fully equipped kitchen and outside braai. The rooms situated inside the house each have their own individual charm, with see-through roofs for you to count stars while taking a bath. There are several lounge areas spread throughout the house, where guests can watch television, browse through magazines or simply enjoy the view. A wireless Internet service is available on the property and for those who like to keep their fingers busy on another kind of keyboard, the piano will answer their needs.
Planning for the future Gerhard is currently in the process of building a further 16 double rooms. “My sweat and soul went into this place, and I have many more plans and ideas for future developments.” He plans to build conferencing facilities for between 50 and 60 people and has an exciting ‘whiskey, wine and chocolate’ bar in the pipeline. The bar will be open between four and ten in the afternoon and will offer single-malt whiskeys, a selection of wines, and a choice of chocolates, cheeses and crackers for guests to enjoy. Catering mostly for the European market and business travellers, only the best service can be expected. A full continental breakfast can be enjoyed between 7 and 10 in the morning. For other meals, The Wreck Restaurant is just down the road.
When Gerhard is not around, on-site manager Gerrie Kok will recommend and book activities in the area, organise a taxi and keep you company in the living room. Actually, Gerrie can just about organise anything your heart desires. He even personally delivers postcards to the post office. Freshly baked cake and muffins are available throughout the day, guests can help themselves to tea or coffee (the establishment prides itself on serving the best coffee in Swakopmund), and a ‘trust’ bar will further satisfy your needs. The property has a large selection of sunset decks and viewpoints, from where guests can enjoy the sunshine, appreciate the desert and watch the movement of the waves.
Atlantic Villa is situated in Gannet Street, Vogelstrand. (MvR).
