Hotel Heinitzburg

Hotel Heinitzburg is the most distinctive place to stay in Windhoek: a small boutique hotel inside one of the three castles that stand on the hills above the city centre. The castle was built in 1914 by Wilhelm Sander, who designed it as his own home, and in 1916 it was bought by Count Hans Bogislav von Schwerin, who named it after his wife Margarete's family, von Heynitz. More than a century later it remains privately owned and intact, and its hilltop position makes it one of the city's most recognisable buildings.

There are just 16 rooms, recently renovated, in three categories: Standard Deluxe, Comfort Deluxe and Superior Deluxe. The small size means the atmosphere is quiet and service is personal, which suits couples and travellers who want a calm first or last night in Namibia rather than a large business hotel. In-room massages can be arranged, and there is a pool terrace with garden surroundings and views across the city, where light refreshments are served through the day.

Food and wine are a big part of the experience. Leo's at the Castle is the hotel's fine-dining restaurant, cooking Namibian game and Atlantic seafood with international technique, while the Garden Terrace offers a more relaxed menu. The Wine Cellar works as both a cellar and a dining space, and the Knight's Room is used for private events. Even if you are not staying, booking dinner at Leo's or a sundowner on the terrace is a good way to see the castle.

Practical extras help on arrival and departure. The hotel offers private transfers from Hosea Kutako International Airport and secure parking reserved for guests, which is useful if you are picking up or dropping off a hire car. Its official website does not state check-in times, so confirm these when you book, particularly if you are arriving on an early flight.

The hotel sits on Heinitzburg Street, a short but steep drive or taxi ride from Independence Avenue, the Christuskirche and the Independence Memorial Museum. Walking up the hill in the heat is possible but tiring, so most guests use taxis to get around. Rates sit at the top end of the Windhoek market.