Hotel Zum Kaiser: Our full report

Just a few meters back from the beach, the Hotel Zum Kaiser (formerly Swakopmund Boutique Hotel) is a modern ...

... and stylish building in a good location in Swakopmund. *** Hotel Zum Kaiser has now permanently closed. Please speak to a member of our team for advice on alternative options. ***

The 21 rooms, all painted white, have air conditioning, a phone, safe, honesty bar, tea and coffee facilities and balconies overlooking the street. Dressing gowns are also provided, and there are TVs in some rooms. A splash of colour in each room is added from cushions scattered on the beds and fresh flowers. Twelve of the rooms have views of the ocean, but if your room doesn't have an ocean view, you can always head up to the roof terrace. The rooms all have en-suite bathrooms with baths and showers.

Zum Kaiser is fairly large compared with some of the more intimate B&Bs on offer in the town. Because of this, the hotel does appeal to those on business trips, but for leisure you will receive just as much welcome and attention. Guests are greeted by a uniformed doorman, which does seem a little over the top for a small hotel! Inside the lobby and reception area is the central spiral staircase, again all in white, but lit by the skylight above. For those who prefer, there's also a lift. To one side of the reception is a small lounge area, and there's also a TV room and with internet access. Right at the top of the spiral staircase is a door that takes you through to the roof terrace, which is great for sundowners and has shaded seating and a beach view. The uniformed waiters offer helpful and friendly service.

Next door to the Swakopmund Boutique Hotel is the stylish and modern Restaurant Zum Kaiser, owned by the hotel. There's an extensive menu including a children's menu, plus a wine cellar. The food here is mainly fish, seafood and steaks, all for a reasonable price. The 42-seater restaurant is decorated with paintings by local artists, which are for sale. For those who just want a drink, there's a bar here with a fireplace.

The Zum Kaiser hotel reception can assist you with booking any of the activities in Swakopmund, and can make reservations at local restaurants, especially The Gallery Restaurant. They can also arrange wake up calls. Reception at the hotel is open 24 hours. (NB: It’s essential that you read the Quadbike warning in the ‘Health & Safety’ section below for our comments on insurance issues regarding this activity.)

Our view

The Hotel Zum Kaiser offers a bright airy and modern place to stay in Swakopmund town centre, with easy access to shops and restaurants, including their own. Although not as intimate as some Guesthouses, its central location and comfortable rooms make it a relaxed place to stay in Swakopmund.

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Geographics

Location: Swakopmund & Walvis Bay, Namibia
Ideal length of stay: 2-3 nights
Directions: Hotel Zum Kaiser is found at number 4, Sam Nujoma Avenue, very close to the sea.
Accessible by: Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Bed & Breakfast
Dining style: Individual Tables
Dining locations: Indoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service: Yes

Children

Attitude towards children: Children are welcome at Swakopmund Boutique Hotel.
Property’s age restrictions: There are no age restrictions.
Special activities & services: None
Equipment: None
Generally recommended for children: Although children are welcome here, there are other B&Bs in Swakopmund that have a few more facilities for children.
Notes: Children should be under parental supervision at all times.

Communications

Communications: There are phones in all rooms and internet is available in reception.
TV & radio: There is a TV room, and some rooms have TVs.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended: No
Medical care: There are many doctors and pharmacists within walking distance, and there is a hospital in Swakopmund.

Quadbike warning: quad-biking is sometimes available as an activity from Hotel Zum Kaiser. As with any potentially dangerous activity, it’s vital that you take responsibility for ensuring that you have adequate travel insurance prior to getting involved. Be aware that some insurances cover quad-bike activities only for bikes with lower engine ratings: check such clauses particularly carefully before you get on a bike.
Dangerous animals: Low Risk
Security measures: There is a doorman on the door at all times.
Fire safety: The lodge has fire extinguishers.