The estuary, beaches, lakes, forests and fynbos will enthral sport enthusiasts and nature lovers with its unique diversity. The Knysna Estuary is the only natural estuarine bay on the subcontinent. Covering more than 1 600ha, the estuary is ranked as one of the top in the country in terms of conservation relevance. The Knysna Forest is the largest canopy forest in Southern Africa and the area’s fynbos vegetation contributes 8 000 plant species to the Cape floral kingdom.
The Garden Route also boasts a rich cultural heritage and Knysna provides the perfect base to explore the history and natural bounty of the surrounding towns. Even so, we know that you’ll want to return to Knysna. Adventure, sports, retail therapy and unadulterated relaxation is at your fingertips.
Two hiking trails in the Knysna Forest, also part of the Garden Route National Park, have been awarded Green Flag status. This is an open access park spanning over 155,000 hectares from Wilderness to Tsitsikamma. Both the Perdekop Nature Walk and Diepwalle Olifants Hiking Trail have now been accredited by the Hiking Organisation of Southern Africa. Two of our beaches are regularly awarded seasonal Blue Flag status, and three world class golf courses are right on our doorstep. Pezula, Simola and the Knysna Golf Course are open year round. Guest players may hire clubs at all three should you spontaneously decide to play during your stay.