In 1994, Beate and her late husband Juergen Raith catered a monumental event marking the return of Walvis Bay to Namibia – a historic celebration attended by eight heads of state and over 1,500 guests. The earnings from this event would lay the foundation for their purchase of Heinitzburg Castle. At the time, they never dreamed of owning a castle. It wasn’t until they heard that it was for sale that Beate’s curiosity led her to visit.

When the couple first visited Heinitzburg, the castle was in a state of disrepair – there was no running water, and the property looked more like a ruin than a residence. But despite its condition, the stunning view from the terrace, especially in the evening, captivated Mrs Raith. As she looked out over the vast landscape, a thought crossed her mind: We could make something of this. This could be our next adventure.

To a young woman whose passion for the hospitality world was only matched by her attention to detail, it was a diamond waiting to be polished. With her husband Juergen, a legendary chef, by her side and driven by unwavering determination and vision, she began to restore Heinitzburg to its former glory.

In 1994 the couple took the first steps toward transforming the castle into what would become a boutique hotel. Beate remembers those early days fondly, the excitement of serving breakfast to a single visitor. Beate recalls how proud she was to host her first dinner for ten people in the castle.

By 1999, the castle had seen its first major renovation: 10 new rooms were added, a wine cellar was built, and a restaurant was constructed. Today there are 16 spacious rooms, where no two are alike. Beate has worked to ensure that the castle maintains its character while offering the modern comforts of a luxury hotel, blending the past and present in a way that honours both.

The historical charm of the castle is still seen today in things like its original wooden panelling or flooring. The original wood carvings by Aschenborn remain on display throughout the castle, depicting figures like Diana, the goddess of hunting, and Pan, the god of the wild. There are also intricate “ancestor trees” carved into the wood, which are linked to local legend. “I’m told that the Herrero people believe that out of one of these trees, Adam fell, and from the other, Eve,” Mrs Raith shares. Each of these pieces is a living artefact, telling a story not just of the castle but of the people who lived and loved within it.

Throughout all the changes and additions over the years, Heinitzburg Castle has maintained its unique charm. It’s a place where the past and present blend seamlessly, where history and personal passion create an environment that feels both timeless and intimate. Beate shares that it hasn’t always been easy in her 30 years at the castle, “but it’s been worth it. Every day is a new challenge, a new opportunity. I can’t imagine doing anything else. I would start all over again if I had to.”

Today, Heinitzburg Castle continues to thrive, and the stories of its past remain integral to the experience. The owner reflects, “The castle is 110 years old, and like any old lady, she needs attention. But I have so much love for her. I want her to last another 110 years.”