Reviews of Sam's Giardino
Wildlife sightings and reviews
173 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Sam's Giardino and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Sam's Giardino review"
Sam's hotel was plastered with For Sale signs and he was away for a few days. The place had no atmosphere and it felt like the restaurant staff were going through the motions of service but with no enjoyment - I expect morale was low due to uncertainty over the sale.
It was a big disappointment as we had been looking forward to what the brochures inferred would be a quirky and fun experience." See all these reviews: 13n in Namibia
Apparently the ‘House for Sale’ boards apply to his neighbour’s house, not the Giardino. Sam’s Giardino is not for sale!
Sam commented: “For the next 10 years I will still stay here because this is my house and my castle. I like Swakopmund and I'm very proud of my guesthouse. My age is only 52 too early to get retired.”
We’re obviously sorry that these travellers didn’t enjoy their stay here, but we’re very pleased to note that Sam’s normal service has now been resumed!
"Sam's Giardino review"
Day trip to coast south of Swakopmund - This was a really memorable trip for a number of reasons. Firstly, our guide Wayne was extremely knowledgeable and had a passion and enthusiasm about the environment that was infectious and provided a real insight into the many environmental and other issues affecting not just this fragile dune environment but also wider issues facing Namibia as a whole . Our enjoyment of he trip was further enhanced by tthe company of Alexanra Fuller, a novelist/writer who was undertaking research for an article she it write for National Geographic magazine and Heidi (didn't catch her surname) who worked for one of the Namibian Government Environmental Protection agencies so we were the beneficiaries of some extremely well informed discussion on a whole range of issues, all of which was punctuated and lightened by a stream of amusing anecdotes from Alexandra from her child-hood days in Zambia and Africa!
Research of previous reader's reviews for the trip had led us to anticipate an excellent lunch and we most certainly weren't disappointed. Home-made lasagne, pate, salad and garlic bread followed by apple pie were consumed in a sheltered spot in the dunes (it was a very windy day). Yummee! Last ,but not least was, the rugged beauty of the dune system and coastline and fragile ecosystems of Sandwich Bay and the splendid panoramic views we had once we had climbed to the top of the dunes above Sandwich Harbour. I would thoroughly recommend this trip (which is organised byBruno Nebe's company Turnstone Tours) and would like to do it again if get to return to Namibia.
Kayaking Walvis Bay Lagoon - We had originally wanted to do the longer (all morning) trip but, because of a shortage of time because of long drive up to Doro Nawas meant that we onld had time for 2 hour trip. Neverthess, this was very pleasant and relaxing experience with our guide Francois who we found easy to chat to about various issues Namibian. Unfortunately, we couldn't get as close to the flamingoes as we would have liked but, all in all, atrip to be recommended." See all these reviews: 18n in Namibia
"Unusual stay in drab coastal town"
Slightly out-of-place and eccentric but perhaps this is good in a rather drab coastal town often covered in sea mist. Because of the long road distances to and from Swakopmund on our tour we had only the single day between our two nights and missed out on the sea trip/s which might have proved worth doing (seals jumping into the boats for snack) etc.
Being one of the few places we might have used the internet to catch up on emails etc. it was disappointing that it was not working (probably from misuse)." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
We had a perfectly comfortable stay and it was a good base to discover this region. Sam was very hospitable but the same couldnt be said for the female member of staff behind the counter.
Im sure the food was lovely but as we didnt feel like a 5 course meal every night we were forced to go into swap to eat in local restaraunts." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia; 1n in South Africa
"Sam's Giardino review"
We should not have worried. Sam's was a real home from home and in the short time we were there (2 nights) were made to feel extremely welcome - we were sad to leave!
Sam goes out of his way to make you feel welcome and nothing was too much trouble for him to organise - restaurants,taxi's, confirmation of activities etc
It was great to join Sam both before and after dinner for a glass of wine - tapping into his excellent knowledge of the subject.
As for Sam's 'best friend' - his dog Ornella, if only she was small enough to smuggle into our luggage!
We could not recommend this place highly enough and for a couple who love to travel we have seen the good and bad of a lot of places! Breakfast was excellent by the way.
Kayaking excursion to Pelican Point - Whatever you do - do not miss this unbelievable experience of being so close to nature via this excellent activity. The chance to be so close to dolphins and baby seals is one that will live for us for the rest of our lives.
The best activity we did on the whole holiday.
The whole activity was superbly run by Jeanne whose relaxed laid back approach added to the whole experience." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"Whatever you do - do not miss this unbelievable experience of being so close to nature via this excellent activity.
The chance to be so close to dolphins and baby seals is one that will live for us for the rest of our lives.
The best activity we did on the whole holiday.
The whole activity was superbly run by Jeanne whose relaxed laid back approach added to the whole experience."
"Southern Africa Manager"
"Sam's Giardino Swakopmund"
The accommodation is very comfortable but when we were there it was cold so people need to be aware they may need warm clothing.
The food served here is excellent and if you are the only residents eating that evening Sam keeps the conversation flowing. He is also very knowledgable about wine.
He appears to treat his staff very well and that ensures their loyalty." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"An ideal stopover in Swakop"
Rooms very comfortable and food good. The wine list is very extensive and is not overpriced.
Sam is a real character and loves to talk." See all these reviews: 11n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
"The day trip with Ernest of Turnstone tours to Sandwich Harbour was unforgettable - riding and hiking over miles of untouched beach with high dunes and unspoiled coast with waves crashing and no sign of other humans all day was fabulous.
Ernest, a third generation German Namibian really knows the flora and fauna and has a passion for showing it to others. I feel if we'd driven through those conditions with anyone less expert, we'd still be there - perhaps adding our skeletons to the skeleton coast.
A great day of exercise and adventure particularly appreciated during a week of seeing wonderful sites yet with limitations in exploring on foot."
"A great chef"
The location is an easy walk into town, if you are reasonably fit." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia
"Sam's Giardino review"
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Other lodges in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Cornerstone Guesthouse
Cornerstone Guesthouse is a small friendly B&B in a peaceful residential area. It's just a short walk from Swkopmund's waterfront & amenities.
Strand Hotel
One of the larger hotels in Swakopmund, the Strand is well-placed on the seafront with good access to restaurants and the centre of town.
The Stiltz
Not your typical guesthouse, The Stiltz occupies a glorious location over the Swakop River on the edge of Swakopmund.
Villa Margherita
Villa Margherita is a beautifully renovated B&B in the heart of Swakopmund, with comfortable, well-appointed rooms, and friendly and attentive staff.
Beach Lodge
Right on the sea front, Beach Lodge offers good standard accommodation and its own restaurant, 15 minutes’ drive from Swakopmund.
Lagoon Lodge
Lagoon Lodge is a quirky little guesthouse located right on the edge of Walvis Bay Lagoon, a good spot for watching the flamingoes that frequent the area.
The Delight
Colourful and contemporary in style, The Delight is a relatively large hotel within a short walk of Swakopmund's waterfront, restaurants and main attractions.
Swakopmund G'house
Swakopmund Guesthouse is a family-run B&B, boasting comfortable and high-quality rooms with a maritime touch.
Brigadoon
In a quiet residential location, Brigadoon is conveniently located for the Swakopmund waterfront and amenities.
Sandfields Guesthouse
Friendly Sandfields guesthouse is a cosy and inviting place to stay just north of Swakopmund town centre, and is particularly suitable for families with children.
Hansa Hotel
With a very central location in Swakopmund, the traditional Hansa Hotel is reliably good, though it is quite formal.
Secret Garden
Secret Garden Guesthouse is well located in the centre of Swakopmund not far from the sea. With a seaside feel, it has its own small restaurant and bar.
Sea Breeze
Just north of Swakopmund, the delightful Sea Breeze Guesthouse is bright and well-looked after with welcoming and helpful owners.
Organic Square
Organic Square is a modern guesthouse across two properties in the centre of Swakopmund.
Desert Breeze
Not your typical Swakopmund guesthouse, Desert Breeze occupies a glorious location overlooking the Swakop River and the desert beyond.
Cornerstone Apartments
Cornerstone Guesthouse’s three self-catering apartments, each in its own unique location, work well for families or groups of travellers seeking space & privacy within a comfortable, contemporary setting.
Pelican Point Lodge
Pelican Point Lodge sits on a remote peninsula offering panoramic views of the ocean and is only accessible by 4WD or boat.
Intermezzo
In a quiet residential area just north of the town centre, Intermezzo Guesthouse is a comfortable and bright place to stay while in Swakopmund.
Oyster Box Guesthouse
Oyster Box Guesthouse is a small, modern and comfortable B&B, overlooking Walvis Bay Lagoon.
Zum Kaiser Hotel
Hotel Zum Kaiser (formerly Swakopmund Boutique Hotel) is fairly large by Swakopmund standards, but has a good location in the centre of town, near to the beach.
Namib Guesthouse
The Namib Guesthouse is a small, modern B&B, set in Swakopmund's peaceful Kramersdorf area. It's just a short walk from the coast and many amenities.
Pearls Beach Pods
With a beachfront location, superb sea views and easy access to the amenities of Swakopmund, The Pearls Beach Pods combine privacy with a high standard of luxury.
