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SOLITAIRE
welcome respite for travellers on the road between Walvis Bay and Sossusvlei, Solitaire is a remote settlement dating from the 1940s. It’s gained legendary status for the variety of services provided by this tiny outpost, set in a never-ending desert.
Apart from offering a place to buy essential goods and refuel vehicles, Solitaire was made famous by Percy “Moose” McGregor for the delicious apple pie that he started serving to visitors, long before Namibia was on the world’s tourism radar. It again gained international prominence thanks to the novel Solitaire, published in 2001 and written by Dutch filmmaker and author, Ton van der Lee, inspired by his years in Namibia. Located at the edge of the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Solitaire lies at the centre of the 20,000-hectare Solitaire Land Trust (SLT). This scenic landscape is dedicated to habitat restoration and preservation and boasts abundant free-roaming wildlife including gemsbok, mountain zebra, wildebeest, springbok, aardwolf, bat-eared fox, leopard and cheetah. SLT supports the Greater Sossus-Namib Landscape initiative and research involving Hartmann’s zebra and carnivore populations. COVID-19 has affected all sectors of Namibia and Solitaire is no different. The great news is that Solitaire’s doors are open as always apart from a few forced changes for the time being. The service station is still fully operational and ready to fill fuel-tanks with a smile. McGregor’s Bakery, made famous by Moose, still produces its tasty freshly baked goods daily (including his renowned apple pie) and other takeaways but is currently operating out of the Tsondab General Dealer (open daily from 7 am to 6 pm). Café Van Der Lee, named after the Dutch author, is not fully open, but is available for delicious pre-arranged meals on the outdoor patio, or for specifically booked gatherings. Solitaire Lodge is the perfect stay-over for exploring Namibia’s south. The 25 spacious, air-conditioned rooms wrap around a courtyard pool and charming desert garden. Lounging around the pool under the shaded thatch lapas is the perfect way to spend a lazy day. For the more adventurous, Solitaire offers sundowner drives in classic Land Cruisers. Hiking paths and fatbikes allow for guests to explore the SLT intimately and at one’s own pace and leisure. For an otherworldly experience, a hot-air balloon ride gives the ultimate views across the wide grasslands and towering dunes. Please note that Solitaire Desert Farm is currently closed for renovations. However, Solitaire Lodge and the campsite, with its beautiful views over the Namib plains, is open.
For any inquiries or to pre-arrange for meals during your visit, please call +264 63 293 621 or visit www.solitairenamibia.com. 45
