Newly opened in June 2018, Shipwreck Lodge offers a luxury retreat in the midst of a harsh Namibian landscape
Carefully designed to resemble the shipwrecks that line Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, the brand-new Shipwreck Lodge is one of the most dramatic and architecturally interesting lodges on the continent.
Located in an unrivalled spot in the Skeleton Coast Central Concession Area, the lodge (the only luxury accommodation in the area) is situated within the Skeleton Coast National Park. With towering sand dunes and wind-swept plains, it’s an eerily beautiful landscape scattered with bleached whale, seal bones and the remnants of over a thousand ships.
Shelter from the elements in style, with wood-burning stoves, thick, fake fur blankets and hot water bottles keep out the Atlantic chill. Completely different from any other lodge on the continent, the interiors are a respite from the harsh environment and are soulful, calming and extremely comfortable.
Designed by a Namibian team, architect Nina Maritz and interior designer Melanie van der Merwe, the property was built with the utmost respect for the environment and the cabin-style bedrooms were built using only wooden nails. Each of the rooms are ensuite, and solar-powered.
Filled with local artwork, at the centre of the camp is a unique lounge and restaurant with a wraparound deck – offering uninterrupted views across the sand to the Atlantic Ocean.
You’re not the only guests in the area either – wildlife includes desert elephant, desert giraffe and the Hartmann’s mountain zebra. Importantly, it also hosts the only other viable lion population in Namibia outside of Etosha National Park.
During a visit, don’t miss a 4×4 excursion to the geographically remarkable Clay Castles or an adventure to the mysterious Suiderkus and Karimona shipwreck remnants, the Hoanib River Delta and the Mowe Bay seal colony.
Other exciting activities include climbing dunes to watch the sunrise, enjoying al-fresco lunch in the shadow of Clay Castles, and spending an afternoon fishing for your dinner.
Rates at Shipwreck Lodge start from N$10,200 per person per night. This includes full board accommodation, all meals, house drinks and all activities.
