To explore is to feel alive. To travel is to rekindle our enthusiasm for life. The further we venture into nature, the more profoundly we recharge and replenish ourselves.

This is true of our trip to the Namib Desert, a primordial swathe of land deeply connected with sacred energies. At the foot of a mountain, situated in a valley so ethereal it seems as if you have stepped onto another planet, we stop to visit the newly revamped Namib Outpost. It overlooks a plain that stretches to the red dunes of Sossusvlei on one side and on the other to the Naukluft Mountains, which are fascinating with their ancient geological history.

Built with rocks from the mountain on which it perches, the lodge’s exterior is simple and effortlessly blends into the horizon. But this changes as you enter: the opulent decor is a composition of African royalty, contemporary and a touch of yesteryear’s travellers. It is a rich portrayal, it is nature wearing powerful portraits.

The feast for the eyes, provided by the interior decoration, is only diverted by the views. So vast are the vistas to the horizon that complete relaxation will take hold of you without you even realising it. The silence leaves an impression, the feeling is one of connection. Breathe in the universe.

Arriving after a stretch on gravel roads, we are dusty and hot, but our discomfort quickly dissolves as we are welcomed by the Namib Outpost tagline welcome home, and are handed chilled ice tea and even chillier face cloths to refresh ourselves. The tagline, which we will hear repeatedly during our stay, is so appropriate. We do feel at home, despite the fact that this is an extremely luxurious venue in the midst of Namibia’s unspoilt desert beauty.

Beautifully appointed, each room boasts a unique layout. A private deck awaits behind beautiful heavy wooden doors, which I am told are from Morocco. They are reminiscent of the royal doors which were used across ancient Africa for sacred spaces. At Namib Outpost you open a brass-studded door and find an uninterrupted panorama behind your natural stone privacy wall on your deck. Sun loungers on the deck beckon you to sprawl and take in the vistas. Or perhaps cool off under your outdoor shower?

Each private deck also boasts an outdoor bed which will be made up for you if you wish to sleep under the Namib night sky. The rooms are decorated individually and come with large beds, along with private patios and outdoor as well as indoor seating options for you to recline and enjoy the views that change in front of your eyes as the sun moves and illuminates the valley from different angles.