(10 chalets) c/o P Bag X27, Benmore 2010, Johannesburg, South Africa; tel: +27 11 809 4300; fax: +27 11 809 4400; email: information@ccafrica.com; web: www.ccafrica.co.za or www.ccafrica.com. Windhoek office tel: 061 236276; email: wdh@afroventures.com
In the north of the NamibRand Reserve, about 32km south of Sesriem and 6km from the D826, Sossusvlei Mountain Lodge is probably the most stylish modern lodge in Namibia.
Spacious chalets, made largely of stone and glass, are built into the rocks overlooking a desert plain. Their graceful interiors use a mix of bright chrome and earthy, desert colours; these personal cocoons have minibars, CD systems and air conditioning. Most of their glass walls slide or fold away to open up the room to the desert, and at night an electric skylight can slide back above your bed allowing you to stargaze. Serious astronomers will also appreciate the large, computer-controlled telescope that's on hand.

The main lodge is similarly luxurious, with air conditioning (on despite the windows all being open during our last visit); there's a satellite TV, email and internet connection if you need them. The food is excellent; the wine cellar impressive – and there's a slightly surreal pool outside. Activities focus on Sossusvlei trips, although quad-biking excursions over nearby dunes are an unusual, and fun, addition to the normal walking and driving trips.