River Crossing: Our full report

Along the road from the airport, just 15 minutes drive from the city centre, is River Crossing. This place is more safari lodge than city guesthouse, and although close to Windhoek, it feels miles away. The lodge is built on a hill, giving it views of mountains in one direction, and Windhoek City in the other.

On entering the main building, you walk directly in to the stand-alone bar, where the helpful staff will welcome you. The enormous surrounding lounge area is filled with large leather sofas and decorated in russet colours, with black furniture. The simple yet elegant style gives the room a cosy atmosphere, whilst the large floor-to-ceiling windows at one end of the lounge give the room a light, bright feel and offer lovely views of the surrounding mountains.

The other side of the bar is the restaurant area, with yet more stunning views of the local area. The restaurant serves a three course menu with a choice of main courses.

Behind the bar, between the lounge area and the restaurant, is the sparkling blue plunge pool overlooking the mountains. The pool is surrounded by a relaxing patio where guests can sit for meals or drinks at any time of day.

Of the 20 individual bungalows, 14 face the mountains and six look towards Windhoek. The Windhoek views are especially appealing at night when the city is lit up in the distance, whilst the mountain views can be appreciated at any time of day. The en-suite rooms are all identical, with the exception of two rooms that have baths instead of showers in the bathroom.

The rooms themselves are very clean and stylish, decorated in neutral colours such and browns and creams and a range of textured fabrics. They feel very spacious and are spotlessly clean. Pictures of Windhoek from bygone days adorn the walls, and bright patterned cushions and pillows on the bed add a splash of colour. All rooms have a well-stocked mini-bar with a selection of wines, a television and two small seating areas – one inside the room, and one outside on the veranda. The en-suite bathrooms come with towels folded into patterns and a range of toiletries are provided. The views from the lodge continue in the rooms, with large glass windows in both the bedrooms and the bathrooms allowing letting in plenty of light.

River Crossing offers a variety of excursions and activities. The lodge is situated in an area of 6,500 hectares, which is home to giraffe, eland, wildebeest, zebra, impala and waterbuck among others. Guests can take scenic drives by 4WD, or explore the area by hiking. The lodge also offers morning and afternoon horse rides, although these are only for those with previous riding experience. For something a little more relaxing, the lodge has a spa and wellness centre offering a range of massages.

Geographics

Location: Windhoek, Namibia

Ideal length of stay: 1-2 nights

Directions: River Crossing is located just off the road from the airport, about 15 minutes drive from the centre of Windhoek.

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Half Board

Food quality: The dinner menu changes daily and includes three courses and fruit with a choice of main course. One example of a main course that was served on our last visit was lamb chops with spiced rices.

Dining style: Individual Tables

Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining

Children

Attitude towards children: Children are welcome at River Crossing.

Equipment: On request.

Generally recommended for children: Yes

Notes: Children must be supervised by their parents at all times.

Central communications

Power supply: Mains Electricity

Communications: Internet access is available at reception.

TV & radio: All rooms have TVs.

Health & safety

Malarial area: No

Medical care: There are many doctors in Windhoek.

Dangerous animals: Low Risk

Security measures: The lodge is located far from the road.

Extras

Disabled access: Not Possible

Laundry facilities: Full Laundry Service - Extra Charge