Goreangab Dam at Penduka.

Inhabitants of the more affluent neighbourhoods of Windhoek tend to forget that the city doesn't end at the Western bypass and mostly ignore the treasures that lie beyond. One of them is the beautiful Goreangab Dam at the Western fringes of the city. With its largely pristine surroundings it is a haven for those seeking solitude and quiet, birds and humans alike. Head for Penduka, a crafts-for-development project right at the lake to get the most out of your trip. They have finally teared down fences and barbed wire along the shoreline and constructed a floating platform, complete with navy blue benches and picknick tables. It almost feels like being miles away from the city. But the distant music from the stereo of some more party-minded leisure seekers reminds you of how close this treasure is to he hubbub of town. Bring a good book and a cushion, order a cup of coffee from the restaurant, and have yourself a merry afternoon of reading, ornithological discoveries and chance encounters with fellow urban nature lovers.