It will either be the thick salty sea mist or the purple smell of lavender that welcomes you to Cornerstone Guesthouse in Swakopmund. When I arrive, the mist was slowly drifting in and enveloping the house in a cloud of silence…

Run by a local couple, the seven room guesthouse excels in service. Not obtrusive or meddlesome, just warm and hearty. Perfect for guests who need rest and privacy. Small details: a cell phone with the guesthouse number in case of emergencies, a little nougat sweet with the welcome note in the rooms and genuine friendliness. Families are welcome, and the guesthouse often sees return business travellers and brides-to-be getting ready here.

Cornerstone’s atmosphere is fresh and elegant, decorated in a ‘beach house chic’ style that matches the seaside lodge’s location. The five double/twin rooms and two family units are fitted with whitewashed furniture, white linen and even lavender printed toilet paper. Original watercolour paintings by the owner’s wife featuring Namibian landscapes and plants adorn the walls. Bathrooms are excellent, with powerful showers, quality toiletries and enormous towels.

There are TVs in the rooms with a selection of channels, but the best entertainment is offered by the town itself. The guesthouse is within walking distance of the beach and town centre with quaint shops and German-inspired cuisine in the restaurants. It is also a pick-up point for day trips and activities such as boat cruises in Walvis Bay, and dune adventures. The garden within the courtyard offers a welcome tranquil retreat after an action-packed day.

The other outstanding feature, apart from the beautiful rooms and peaceful atmosphere, is the breakfast. Small glass vases with freshly picked lavender adorn the tables in the sunny breakfast room. Here warm brötchens, fresh orange juice and a selection of cooked protein options are served.

Practically located and beautifully appointed rooms matched with genuine service, make this small guesthouse an excellent choice for even a jaded traveller.