Sonop will be the second opening from Zannier Hotels in Namibia following the launch of Omaanda in summer 2018
This summer will see the hotly-anticipated opening of Sonop, a luxurious tented camp nestled on the Southern edge of the Namibian desert in the Karas region, two hours from the majestic red dunes of Sossusvlei. It will be the second opening in Namibia from Zannier Hotels, further to the launch of Omaanda in July 2018.
Sonop has been constructed atop a group of boulders and comprises ten luxury tents which invite guests to live the life of intrepid explorers from the early 20th century. Just like those British travellers who traded their beloved homes for the bare Namibian desert dunes, guests staying at Sonop will experience a taste of living in complete isolation, immersed in the surrounding landscape but still able to enjoy the bespoke high-end luxury experience offered by Zannier Hotels.
The lodge is located approximately 80 minutes by plane from Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, and has its own landing strip or, for those who wish to travel by road, it is approximately a 4.5 hour journey in a 4X4 Jeep. Whilst en route, guests can spot numerous boulders dotted amongst the long stretches of sand dunes. These enormous piles of granite rocks are the result of ancient volcanic eruptions, since polished and hollowed out by millions of years of weathering and are typical of the local geography. It is at the foot of one of these majestic rock formations that Sonop is located.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
Designed to mimic a refined British colonial experience from the 1920’s, the ten spacious tents aim to offer a unique journey through time. Richly furnished with antiques made from exquisite materials, colourful carpets and precious woods, guests will feel the spirit of adventurers of the past and drink in the unique look and feel of the location.
IN THE EXPLORER’S TENT
The tents, eight measuring 42sqm with a double bedroom and living room and two measuring 75sqm with two double bedrooms and a shared living room, face out towards the spectacular landscape that surrounds the property. Shaped in an oval formation and built on sturdy elevated wooden decks covered by elegant tent canvas, they offer the utmost in comfort, including Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, to cater for today’s discerning traveller.
All tents feature a large bedroom, separate bathroom and a large copper bathtub combined with a rain shower. A dressing table with ornate objects, such as tiny flasks and antique combs, turn the bathroom into a charming space. The antique desks, found in the living areas of the tents, display various objects d’art, such as magnifying glasses, binoculars and vintage maps. The bedrooms feature king size four-poster beds, an airy living area with comfortable armchairs, and a telescope to look out into the distant surroundings.
The camp’s energy supply comes entirely from solar panels, supporting Zannier Hotels eco-focused approach. All tents have private terraces that extend out across large wooden decks, offering magnificent views of the desert.
DINNER AND DRINKS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DESERT
Each evening guests are invited to enjoy an opulent gastronomic experience, where silverware and candelabras set the mood, enhanced by black-tie and white glove service. Flawless service and attention to detail are par for the course. The evening can be extended in the Cocktail & Cigar Lounge, designed in the style of a traditional gentlemen’s club with a billiard table and parlour games taking centre stage. A skilled barman will be on hand to create exotic cocktails showcasing delicious flavours and inspired by the desert surrounds.
WELLBEING IN THE DESERT
For guests’ ultimate comfort, Sonop will also offer a spa consisting of two double treatment rooms, a gym, relaxation centre and a heated outdoor infinity pool, all of which provide jaw-dropping unimpeded views over the desert and the tents in the distance.
UNFORGETTABLE EXCURSIONS
Breath-taking outdoor excursions will be offered within the 5,600 hectares of private reserve, where oryxes, brown hyenas, rabbits, foxes, jackals, kudus and leopards roam free. These include exploring the desert by foot or riding horses from the camp’s private stables. Guests will be amazed by the sky that ranges in colour from striking purples and oranges to bright blues.
Bicycle lovers can devote themselves to a rather unique activity in the desert, using electric mountain bikes, offering a more wide-ranging but nevertheless environmentally respectful outing. Other made-to-measure excursions can be organised upon request, such as hot air balloon rides, romantic dinners in the dunes and even watching a classic film at Sonop’s open-air cinema.
GOOD TO KNOW
There are regular transfers from Sonop to Omaanda – the first luxury lodge in Namibia from Zannier Hotels, located closer to the capital, Windhoek, and set within the Zannier Reserve by N/a’an ku sê private animal reserve.
