Immanuel Lodge: Heart and homegrown hospitality
Just 20 km from Windhoek lies a tranquil escape that blends luxury, heart, and homegrown hospitality, Immanuel Lodge, the latest destination featured on My.na Property. Host Aina Raiza Kweyo sat down with founder and head chef Stephan Honk, who has poured passion and personality into every corner of the lodge.
“We always say, ‘You arrive as a guest, and leave as family’,” Honk said, describing the personal, family-oriented atmosphere that makes the lodge stand out. More than just words, it's a philosophy lived out in every detail, from the warm welcomes to the award-winning cuisine. In fact, Honk, who also serves as head chef, proudly recalls the lodge’s restaurant being named Namibia’s best. “It’s my passion. Every evening I’m in the kitchen, pampering our guests.”
Immanuel Lodge features nine cosy rooms accommodating up to 22 guests, a spacious restaurant that seats 60, a serene pool area, and a massage retreat, all nestled in the heart of a 10-hectare property. Though easily accessible via the B1, the lodge offers a secluded, bush-like atmosphere. “You feel like you’re in the wild, but you’re only minutes from the city,” says Honk. Guests can enjoy sightings of springbok and ostrich at the small waterhole, or take game drives with neighbouring lodges.
What sets Immanuel Lodge apart is not just its natural beauty or facilities, but the emotional connection woven into its design. Once a family home, the lodge’s interiors are lovingly crafted by the Honks themselves. No outside designers, just heart and history. While it’s primarily a peaceful getaway for couples and small groups, it has also hosted intimate weddings and private events.
In a bittersweet revelation, Honk shared that Immanuel Lodge will close its doors at the end of the year as he steps into retirement. “If you want to experience this place, the food, the hospitality, now’s the time,” he urges. But the spirit of Immanuel Lodge will live on. Honk is currently working on an online cookbook and a private dining service, bringing his signature culinary experience into people’s homes.
Asked what stories the lodge would tell if it could speak, Honk smiles knowingly. “We’ve had very famous guests, from singers and actors to politicians, but this place is about privacy, peace, and feeling at home. That’s what they come here for.”
Catch the full feature on My.na Property tonight at 21:00, and discover why Immanuel Lodge isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a place to remember.
“We always say, ‘You arrive as a guest, and leave as family’,” Honk said, describing the personal, family-oriented atmosphere that makes the lodge stand out. More than just words, it's a philosophy lived out in every detail, from the warm welcomes to the award-winning cuisine. In fact, Honk, who also serves as head chef, proudly recalls the lodge’s restaurant being named Namibia’s best. “It’s my passion. Every evening I’m in the kitchen, pampering our guests.”
Immanuel Lodge features nine cosy rooms accommodating up to 22 guests, a spacious restaurant that seats 60, a serene pool area, and a massage retreat, all nestled in the heart of a 10-hectare property. Though easily accessible via the B1, the lodge offers a secluded, bush-like atmosphere. “You feel like you’re in the wild, but you’re only minutes from the city,” says Honk. Guests can enjoy sightings of springbok and ostrich at the small waterhole, or take game drives with neighbouring lodges.
What sets Immanuel Lodge apart is not just its natural beauty or facilities, but the emotional connection woven into its design. Once a family home, the lodge’s interiors are lovingly crafted by the Honks themselves. No outside designers, just heart and history. While it’s primarily a peaceful getaway for couples and small groups, it has also hosted intimate weddings and private events.
In a bittersweet revelation, Honk shared that Immanuel Lodge will close its doors at the end of the year as he steps into retirement. “If you want to experience this place, the food, the hospitality, now’s the time,” he urges. But the spirit of Immanuel Lodge will live on. Honk is currently working on an online cookbook and a private dining service, bringing his signature culinary experience into people’s homes.
Asked what stories the lodge would tell if it could speak, Honk smiles knowingly. “We’ve had very famous guests, from singers and actors to politicians, but this place is about privacy, peace, and feeling at home. That’s what they come here for.”
Catch the full feature on My.na Property tonight at 21:00, and discover why Immanuel Lodge isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a place to remember.
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article