It’s a jewel in the crown of the Garden Route, and Knysna – located between Wilderness and Plettenberg Bay – has truly shown its mettle this year in how the town has rallied together after massive fires created havoc here. In fact, rebuilding is happening at lightning speed and the town will soon be back to its former glory.It’s a jewel in the crown of the Garden Route, and Knysna – located between Wilderness and Plettenberg Bay – has truly shown its mettle this year in how the town has rallied together after massive fires created havoc here. In fact, rebuilding is happening at lightning speed and the town will soon be back to its former glory.
Many residents saw their homes razed to the ground – including Ian Fleming, who has called Knysna home for 21 years and had to move to Sedgefield after the devastation. Ian is still very upbeat about the town and area though and says the combination of the lagoon, forests and mountains – offering both adventure and laidback downtime – is simply unbeatable.
Development in Knysna has been consistent over the years and this has included many new malls. Thhe Waterfront’s popularity – thanks to all the wonderful stores, eateries and lagoon views – continues unabated. The town is wildly popular with tourists and is also an evergreen choice for retirement.
In terms of actitvities, there is just so much to do – from boat excursions on the lagoon to superb golfing at, for example, the Knysna Golf Club, Pezula Championship Golf Course and the Simola Golf Course. Other outdoor pursuits include plenty of hiking and running trails, kayaking, swimming and fishing.
Annual highlights that draw huge crowds from all over the world include the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival (end of April), the Knysna Speed Festival (first week of May) and, of course, the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival (July).
Don’t miss this!
• Knysna Heads – so much nature to explore!
• Boat cruises
• The Knysna Elephant Park’s elephant back rides
• The Waterfront’s wonderful array of eateries and cafés
Wining and dining
• Olive Tree Restaurant: mouthwatering meals
• Daniela’s at Leisure Isle Lodge: quirky menu
• The Project Bar: utterly divine cocktails
• Zachary’s Restaurant: choices galore!
• Croft Courtyard: superb brekkies in the loveliest location
• The Island Cafe at The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa: al fresco meals in a stylish setting
Top-notch acccommodation
• The Mount Knysna Boutique Hotel
• Oniro On Thesen• Brenton Haven Beachfront Resort
• The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa
• Under Milkwood self-catering chalets
• The Alexander Boutique Suites
Resident’s view: “It’s vibey, alive and pulsing. The buzz of international trends is in Knysna.” – Ian Fleming, former resident
Words: Riekie Human | Images: iStock
