The Gross Barmen Hot Springs Resort is undergoing a complete re-development, planned to take about 24 months. With the closure of the facility in November 2010, and the subsequent commissioning of the project in December 2010, work is now underway to complete what is envisaged to be Namibia’s largest tourism facility encompassing spa & wellness, fitness, recreation, and leisure.Wellness, vitality and leisure
The redeveloped facility will include a health and hydro/medical spa centre, focusing on the thermal springs, providing a full range of treatments, massages, and health activities, in a relaxing environment.
Additional sports facilities such as a fully equipped gym; play park game room and putt-putt course will be provided. Family retreat will also be accommodated with recreation features for children planned in the form of a Water theme park with waterslides; water features and falls and children entertainment areas.
Conferencing and events
The development, which will in most certainty become Namibia Wildlife Resort’s largest tourism facility, will also be equipped with a state of the art conference facility to cater for both local and international meetings, conferences and events in a relaxed and conducive setting.
The main complex, consisting of the fully equipped conferencing and event facilities (with own kitchen and catering equipment), spa and wellness, restaurant and bar – and incorporating indoor and outdoor thermal pools will be completely redeveloped.
The interior will be natural and inviting – and will cater for all seasons (e.g. concertina doors that can be opened in summer months – inviting fireplace that will create a warm ambiance in winter months). The complex will project a sense of space and comfort.
Accommodation
Existing chalets will be redeveloped – to provide sound structures with contemporary interiors. The area immediately close to the main complex will be landscaped and developed to offer an inviting “oasis” effect, using indigenous species as far as possible. Beyond this immediate area, the natural `veldt` will be enhanced, with alien and invasive species controlled, and walking trails developed and mapped for visitor experience.
With consideration given to environmental factors in the design of all developments and re-developments, Gross Barmen is anticipated to set the trend in low impact tourism facilities in Namibia.
The new Camp is anticipated to create 189 new jobs and will stimulate the economy of Okahandja Town.
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