Sights and Restaurants in Lüderitz

A Bavarian coastal town in the desert? Even though this sounds strange it gives you Lüderitz in a nutshell. Just north of the Forbidden Coast Lüderitz has conserved the German colonial flair. Looking a the imperial and Art Nouveau almost feels like travelling back in time.

The locals are friendly and very proud of their heritage. So get into the swing of things, slow down and enjoy some German hospitality in the Namibian sun.

German Architecture

Felsenkirche

Lüderitz’ most prominent landmark overlooks the town from Diamond Hill. The Felsenkirche was build in 1911 with money from good old Germany. The glass panels over the altar was donated by emperor Wilhelm II himself. The late afternoon sun brings the stained-glass to life.

Gorke Haus

Characterized by its Art Nouveau elements the Gorke Haus is one of Lüderitz’ most magnificent buildings. Erected in 1910 as the residence of HansGorke, lieutenant of the Schutztruppe and head of the Emiliental Diamond Company, it has braved time and is still as impressive as ever.

Impressionistic ceiling paintings and stained-glass windows characterize the interior and are silent witnesses of the wealth the diamond brought to this area in the early 1900s.

Lüderitz Museum

The Lüderitz museum informs you on all aspects of the town and surrounding area. The colonial history, diamond mining, desert life and the indigenous population are all well explained and illustrated.

Restaurants

Diaz Coffee Shop serves snacks and famous cakes. Don’t miss the Sunday breakfast.

Legends offers seafood, steaks, burgers and pizza in a leisure ambiance.

Penguin Restaurant is situated on a terrace of the Nest Hotel. They are known for their seafood dishes.

Ritzi’s Seafood Restaurant offers the best seafood in town. Meats and vegetarian dishes worth a taste as well and the view of Lüderitz harbour completes a pleasant dining experience.

As Ritzi’s is usually quite busy, make sure you have a reservation.

Rumours Grill offers steak and pizza. If you’re looking for company you’ll find it in the sports bar or the beer garden.

Ghost Towns

The diamond rush of the early 1900s attracted many a soldier of fortune. When the mining moved further south towns such as Kolmanskop were deserted. Take a tour into the ghost town to see the sand and wind reclaim its territory.