Namibia's Swakopmund

     Namibia's premier coastal resort, Swakopmund is a pretty town with palm trees lining the streets and many eye-catching turn-of-the-Century Colonial buildings, some of which are national monuments. The city is a wonderful oasis after the desolation of the desert regions one has to cross to reach it, with its lush green lawns and colourful gardens. The coast with its desert hinterland offers main options, both for adventure and for relaxation.

     Swakopmund can be called Namibia's own Riviera, as it's very popular with Namibians who visit during the summer to escape the heat inland. It's Namibia's most popular coastal resort and it looks very much like a Bavarian Village, with characteristic shops, as well as restaurants and hotels. The original wooden pier, The Mole, which is silted up, creates a lovely sheltered beach. Its pretty promenade adds its popularity as a bathing site where surfing is also good.