Weaver’s Rock: Heartfelt hospitality

The guest experience at lodges, hotels and other establishments across the country is renowned the world over. Warm smiles, friendly service and excellent hospitality are always on the menu.
While this is ideal, there’s often something slightly sanitised about these services. This was this journalist's previous experience, and expectation too - which was wonderfully upset after a recent visit to a small family-run lodge outside Otjiwarongo offered a refreshingly personal touch to every aspect of our stay. From the setting to sumptuous soul food - the experience overflowed with a real sense of sincerity.
“Our motto at Weaver’s Rock Guest Farm is 'arrive as guests, leave as friends'," explained Christa Heimstädt, the co-owner and manager of the lodge.

The nest
Since 1903, generations have enjoyed hearty, home-made hospitality under the landmark Hohenfels, or 'high rocks' as named by Earl zu Bentheim Tecklenburg-Rheda, referring to the mountain which guards the homestead and where he later built a farmhouse and the stables which today house a young family with their four boys, as well as a dining and reading room for guests.
After taking a sabbatical, Heimstädt and her sister Antje Engling decided that the time had come to bring this unique experience back to the market.
“It took three months of hard cleaning, gardening, painting, oiling, etc. until we felt ready to welcome our first guests, as we wanted to ensure everything was perfect, cozy and clean,” Heimstädt said.
Their lodging consists of six comfortable, well-appointed rooms and seven immaculate campsites on a lawn boasting shady trees and magnificent views.
"Our valued camping guests have full access to all facilities and amenities. All campsites have their own water/electricity supply and bathroom facilities in the historic stable building," the co-owner said.
“This means that we have a very personalised atmosphere, which sets the guest farm apart in terms of hospitality. To be very honest, I did not really have experience in this environment, but I am very passionate about what we do. I love meeting new people from all walks of life and, most of all, spoiling people has always made me happy,” Heimstädt said.
And this is clear in every aspect, especially the food.

Standing ovations
“Before reopening the guest farm, I decided to employ an experienced chef. After searching for a while, I was introduced to Victor Kamati. His passion is cooking and he is especially good with preparing meat. Perfect every time!
"Victor and myself have spent a lot of time setting up our menu. We use only fresh ingredients, and the best meat available. Victor is introduced to all our guests having dinner at Weaver’s Rock Guest Farm, and he has received more standing ovations than we've been able to keep track of,” she added.
And this is where the inspiration for this article actually came about. Not only does one seldom stay at an establishment where the inn-keepers remember and refer to you by your first name, but it’s very rare that everything you’re served - whether a well-deserved steak dinner or the most mouth-watering packed lunch you've ever had in your life - boasts impeccable attention to detail, deliciousness and unmatched quality.
“The most incredible feeling for me and my staff is seeing our guests enjoying the food we serve,” she said.
Judging by the fact that 70% of our visiting team’s conversation was about the food, warmth and heart we experienced at the Weaver’s Rock, we know this to be true.

Being a bird of paradise
Furthermore, the setting of the guest farm is absolute breathtaking. The mountain in the backdrop, the beautiful garden and the amazing views make this little paradise very unique.
A 25-minute climb up to the cross on Mount Hohenfel offers an amazing vantage point where visitors can reconnect with nature and take in the wonders of the creation sprawling beyond the horizon.
They also have picturesque walking route - which will take you about two and a half hours - all along the foot of the mountain. A visit to the waterhole, an old quarry, is a must.
“We also offer a sundowner drive to a hill nearby, where guests can enjoy the spectacular sunset with their favourite refreshments. Mountain bikers are also welcome, as we have quite a few farm roads to explore, and afterwards, guests are welcome to a drink and relate their day’s experiences at our boma around a crackling fire,” Heimstädt added.

Getting getaways right
Thanks to their location adjacent to a major national route and their proximity to a range of beautiful attractions, including the Waterberg Plateau National Park, visitors can enjoy easy access to a range of activities to suit the interests of all, whether you’re a business traveller in transit or a family looking for a memorable break.
“Together with the rest of the Weaver’s Rock team, we want to make your stay a memorable one. Experience life on a farm in Namibia and enjoy the vistas which nature presents to us every day. Come with time, relax and re-energise in the serenity and quietness of our tranquil surrounding. Team Weaver’s Rock and our special diplomatic envoys, the dogs, horses and other animals, look forward to welcome you.
“...And indeed, most of our guests left as friends,” the co-owner said with the warmest smile.

For more information on bookings, email [email protected] or call 081 128 2997 or 081 700 1073.