Between the Heads and the heart.
With its photogenic coastline and awe-inspiring forests, it’s no surprise the Garden Route is one of the Cape’s major drawcards. Add friendly locals, a year-round summer-holiday vibe and idyllic places to stay, and you have all the makings of a dream vacation.
While there are several seaside towns to choose from, Knysna has long been a top choice. From the myths and legends of the forest, and the creative, hippie-go-lucky vibe, the town has grown and evolved into a contemporary hotspot offering something for every interest. All the while, magnificent scenery provides the perfect backdrop – from the dense forest valleys of Rheenendal and the towering cliffs at The Heads to the serene waters of the tidal lagoon.
Where to stay? Our list includes stylish treetop escapes, charming cabins, trendy hotels, boutique boltholes and private villas. We’ve got just the place for you.
You might also be interested in our best things to do in Knysa.
The Lofts Boutique Hotel
Distance from town 2km
Setting The Lofts is a family-run hotel in refurbished 100-year-old boat-building sheds on Thesen Island, where contemporary furnishings, a variety of on-site attractions and modern amenities are the cherry on top of a central, fuss-free stay. You have instant access to water activities, shopping and dining, plus with sweeping views over the water all the way to The Heads and beyond, the sunsets here are epic. There are lagoon-view suites, attic-style balcony rooms and self-catering, double-level, two-bedroom apartments.
The lodgings
- king-size bed (or twin beds)
- ensuite with a bath and/or shower
- private furnished patio
- in-room seating; lounge and dining area in apartments
- satellite TV
- tea/coffee station and minibar
- kitchenette in apartments
- air-conditioning
- concierge service
Things to do
- swimming pool and sun loungers on the deck
- Nest Food Bar on site (in the atrium)
- île de païn bakery-café next door
- spa on site
- kayaking on the lagoon (direct access, kayaks provided)
- waterfront marina shops and attractions
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room/suite; 4 per apartment
Cost Balcony rooms: from R4 300 per night
Lagoon-view suites: from R7 370 per night
Apartments: from R5 980 per night (breakfast excluded)
Where to find it Long Street, Thesen Island, Knysna
MAKE A RESERVATION
Under Milkwood
Distance from town 6km
Setting Tucked away under shady milkwood trees on the shore of the Knysna lagoon at The Heads, this iconic hideaway is one of the longest-standing lodgings in town – and the only one with direct access to a (semi-private) beach. With quiet walkways linking a scattering of wooden chalets (16 in total) and nothing but the sound of birdsong and lapping waves, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d landed on an island paradise. Under Milkwood is the epitome of a relaxing beach holiday, so it’s hardly surprising that families return year in and year out.
The lodgings
- 15 two-bedroom chalets (double bed and twin beds, plus sleeper couch)
- 1 split-level chalet with bedroom/living area upstairs, and bathroom downstairs
- 2 bathrooms per chalet (shower and bath)
- fully equipped kitchen with Le Creuset cookware and crockery
- open-plan living room with TV (select DStv), USB and DVD player
- private deck with table and seating
- outdoor braai (wood supplied daily)
- garden and firepit (selected chalets)
- daily housekeeping (babysitting on request)
Things to do
- lagoon beach with sun loungers provided
- swimming in the lagoon
- kayaks and SUP boards available
- walk across the sandbank to Leisure Isle at low tide
- library of DVDs and board games (at reception)
- close proximity to the East Head and its restaurants
- limited boat moorings
Good to know The waterfront chalets are the ones to book if you want to be right on the beach (No. 4, 10, 14 and 17); seven have lagoon views.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 5 per chalet
Cost From R1 610 per night for two people sharing
From R195 per extra person
Where to find it George Rex Drive, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Alkira Lodge
Distance from town 14km
Setting Want to see the whole of Knysna without leaving your verandah? Look no further than this exquisite villa perched above the bay in a private nature conservancy at Brenton-on-Sea. Hugged in lush fynbos, with the nearest neighbour a lengthy walk away, this scenic spot is unlike anything you’ve seen before: where modern luxury and nature converge. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow the breathtaking vistas in, with warm, contemporary decor and every conceivable creature comfort ensuring your stay is unforgettable. In-house chef Robyn and hands-on host Sam Conyers tailors each experience to your specific needs and interests – spa treatments, exclusive nature excursions and boat trips (to name a few) to ensure your stay at this unique villa is nothing short of magical.
The lodgings
- 6 bedrooms (king-size beds, optional twin beds)
- 6 ensuites with walk-in rain shower and/or spa bath, plus outdoor showers (in 2 suites)
- private patio for each room, plus lounge area (in 2 suites)
- indoor fireplaces
- TV rooms with smart TVs
- indoor and outdoor lounges
- fully stocked bar and wine cellar
- chef’s kitchen
- pizza oven, plus indoor and outdoor braais and firepit
- pool deck with sun loungers
- jacuzzi/hot tub
- library and work spaces
- grand piano
- breakfast included + option for additional meals
Things to do
- fine dining and themed meals
- braais, pizza evenings and picnics
- in-villa spa treatments
- nature and birding walks in fynbos and forest
- play croquet or boules on the lawn
- guided mountain-biking and cycling (bikes supplied)
- Brenton beach (five minutes away), or walk to Buffels Bay
- private boat trips on the Knysna lagoon
Good to know Book the entire villa for exclusive use and design your daily menu with chef Robyn. Suites/rooms can occasionally be booked individually depending on availability.
Child friendly? Yes (from 10 years old, exclusive-use only)
Pet friendly? Yes (2 dogs max, exclusive-use only)
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 12
Cost Exclusive use: From R60 000 per night (all-inclusive)
Room only: From R6 400 per night
Where to find it Off WK Grobler Avenue, Brenton-on-Sea, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Cliffhanger Cottages
Distance from town 14km
Setting Perched on the edge of a cliff, overlooking tree-covered hills, the Outeniqua Mountains and the Knysna forest below, these two modern timber chalets – aptly named Cliffhanger and Cliffedge – offer a wonderful sense of seclusion and uninterrupted views (large windows throughout). With the majestic backdrop, and a private deck to soak up the beauty of every sunrise and sunset, this escape is a true hidden gem. The passionate owners are intent on preserving the environment and have taken a number of steps to achieve that end, such as harvesting rainwater, using biodegradable cleaning products and solar power, and eradicating alien vegetation.
The lodgings
- 1 bedroom (extra-length queen-size bed)
- ensuite shower with a view
- fully equipped kitchen
- open-plan living room and dining area
- indoor fireplace
- private balcony with seating and Weber braai
- wood-fired hot tub (in Cliffhanger)
- TV with OpenView
- air-conditioning
Things to do
- forest walks and hiking trails
- scenic picnics
- explore the Rheenendal Ramble
- hike to Drupkelders rockpools
Good to know A third option called Hedge Cottage is in a tranquil garden setting (with the same views). There is a minimum two-night stay.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From R2 250 per night
Where to find it Rheenendal Road, off the N2, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Woodlands Country Retreat
Distance from town 15km
Setting Part of the appeal of staying in the Rheenendal Valley is knowing that you will be completely immersed in nature and surrounded by unbelievable views. At Woodlands, you’re guaranteed all this and more. Host Julie Bryden and her family have turned their spectacular slice of land into a heavenly boutique hideout. Take a walk along protea-lined pathways, or simply relax on your private deck as you listen to the soporific sound of birdsong – no matter how you spend your time here, deep relaxation is a given. There are two couples’ suites (Protea and Pincushion), two family suites (two-bedroom Loerie and Owl) and the cutest Scandi-style “tiny home” called The Nest (with a loft bedroom) – all with handcrafted furniture, fine linen, handmade soaps and stocked with kitchen basics.
The lodgings
- king-size bed (or twin beds); queen bed in The Nest
- ensuite with a walk-in shower
- spacious seating area
- fully equipped kitchen
- flatscreen TV with DStv (except The Nest)
- deck with braai, dining table and hammock
- air-conditioning
Things to do
- private forest walking trail on site
- indigenous garden and plant nursery
- communal braai area and firepit overlooking a pond
- kids’ playground
Good to know Look out for Pampering Weekend specials, which include couples’ massages.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes, by prior arrangement
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4 per unit
Cost From R1 163 per night for two adults sharing; R200 per child
The Nest: from R938 per night
Where to find it Rheenendal Road, off the N2, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Forest Valley Cottages
Distance from town 14km
Setting On the edge of the Knysna forest, these romantic treetop cottages flaunt unrivalled views of the Outeniqua Mountains and expansive valley below. The perfect mix of rustic comfort and stylish luxury, they offer a wonderfully private and intimate escape, allowing you to kick back and simply enjoy the natural beauty. There are eight cottages in all – each with its own special features: Blue Sky has a giant cargo-net hammock; Sandstone has a four-poster bed and its own boma and firepit; Lavender Edge has two bedrooms. Welcoming host Mark Nel ensures every guest has an exceptional experience, adding thoughtful touches such as chocolates on your pillow, scented candles, fresh flowers in every corner and a lovely handwritten note wishing guests a fabulous stay, which is not hard given all of the above.
The lodgings
- 7 cabins sleeping two (king/queen beds), 1 two-bedroom cabin sleeping four (king + twin beds)
- open-plan ensuite with shower, plus outdoor shower in 2 cottages
- outdoor jacuzzi or indoor spa bath
- wood-burning fireplace (in 7 cottages)
- fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine
- lounge area
- flatscreen TV with DStv
- air-conditioning
- deck with table and seating (hammock, swing chair or loungers)
- wood braai or gas Weber
- daily housekeeping
Things to do
- forest walks and hiking trails
- scenic picnics
- swim in the communal pool
- visit the “Kissing Spot” and bird hide
- explore the Rheenendal Ramble
- hike to Drupkelders rockpools
Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes (limited, free in reception)
Sleeps 2 per cottage (4 in Lavender Edge)
Cost From R3 100 per cottage per night
Where to find it Off Rheenendal Road, off the N2, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Head Over Hills
Distance from town 7km
Setting As if floating among The Heads on an invisible string, this lagoonside escape offers some of the best views – including of the Indian Ocean – from its infinity pool that seems to drift off into, well, infinity. Driving up a steep hill, only to veer right down towards the edge of The Heads, you feel as though you are boarding a fantasy ship, where nothing but uninterrupted views of sky and water fills your vision. This aptly named hotel makes you do just that – fall head over heels for Knysna; the warm service, thoughtful additions and comfortable lodgings only add to the setting. There are four suites (Elephant, Whale, Seahorse and Captain’s) and four deluxe rooms (Viewpoint, Dolphin, Oyster and Pansy Shell).
The lodgings
- king-size Hästens bed
- ensuite with a bath and/or shower; spa bath and sauna in Elephant Suite
- private balcony with loungers or deck chairs
- tea/coffee station (Nespresso) and stocked SMEG minifridge
- in-room seating and desk area (in suites)
- wood-burning fireplace (in selected suites)
- TV with full DStv (and mini hi-fi in selected suites)
- air-conditioning
Things to do
- solar-panel-heated infinity pool and sun loungers on the deck
- on-site massage
- private wine tastings in the cellar
- restaurant and bar-lounge on site
- scenic walks (Coney Glen Beach is 800m away)
Good to know A complimentary à la carte breakfast is served each morning; lunch and dinner available at an additional cost. Luxury picnic baskets can also be ordered.
Child friendly? Yes, from age 12
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per suite/room
Cost Rooms: from R6 000 per night
Suites: from R8 400 per night
Where to find it Glen View Drive, Coney Glen, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Shufflers Villa
Distance from town 14km
Setting Tucked away in a private fynbos nature reserve overlooking the entire town below, this three-bedroom escape perches above Brenton-on-sea in what is perhaps one of the most beautiful parts of Knysna. Located a short stroll from Alkira Lodge, this scenic property offers an entirely separate and private experience to that of the main villa or can be booked in conjunction for a larger group. Absolute relaxation and endless views are a given, while the three ensuite bedrooms, fully equipped living area and view-drenched pool deck mean you will never want to leave. Breakfast is included and the lodge chef will liaise with you regarding any additional catering needs. A slew of activities are easily accessible for those wanting to get out and explore the area.
The lodgings
- 3 bedrooms (queen-size beds)
- 3 ensuites with walk-in shower, plus outdoor shower
- private patio leading off each room
- fully equipped kitchen with scullery and laundry
- open-plan lounge and dining room with 2 fireplaces
- shaded patio with outdoor seating
- swimming pool, jacuzzi and sun loungers
- braai area
- private garden
- smart TV, sound system and home automation
- breakfast included
Things to do
- nature and birding walks in fynbos and forest
- play croquet, boules, badminton or volleyball on the lawns
- guided mountain-biking and cycling (bikes supplied)
- Brenton beach (five minutes away), or walk to Buffels Bay
- private boat trips on the Knysna lagoon
- in-villa spa treatments
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes (2 dogs max)
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 6
Cost From R22 000 per night
Where to find it Off WK Grobler Avenue, Brenton-on-Sea, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Buccara Knysna Castles
Distance from town 11km
Setting This cluster of fanciful fairytale castles on a spectacular beach is a dream come true. The stone buildings, with turrets, ramparts and balconies, were built in the 1930s and 40s – now renovated, modernised and decorated in aristocratic style. Three are available to rent for an unforgettable holiday. Inside, Pezula (the original castle) is an English country vision in florals and brocades; Lindsay Castle has a rustic-chic and characterful feel; while Craighross is more contemporary in muted, natural hues. Honeymoon Castle, part of Pezula, can be rented separately – a romantic “ice-cream dream” of cream and pastel tones. Each day, the quiet, golden sands of Noetzie await, where you can build your own fantastical sandcastles…
The lodgings
- Pezula Castle: 3 bedrooms (king beds) + Cliff Villa (1 bedroom with king bed)
- Lindsay Castle: 6 bedrooms (king or twin beds), one with balcony, one with fireplace in the lounge
- Craighross Castle: 6 bedrooms (king or twin beds), one with private lounge, fireplace and terrace
- Honeymoon Castle: 1 bedroom (king bed) with fireplace and daybeds
- all ensuite with bath and/or shower
- fully equipped modern kitchen
- open-plan lounge and dining room with fireplace (2 lounges at Pezula Castle)
- smart TV
- furnished terrace with loungers and daybeds
- outdoor dining table and braai
- landscaped garden
- swimming pool and gazebo (at Pezula Castle)
- plunge pool (at Honeymoon Castle)
Things to do
- swimming in the sea
- walks on the beach
- hiking trail in the adjacent Sinclair Nature Reserve
- canoeing on the river
Good to know Daily housekeeping is included.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps Pezula Castle: 6 + 2 in Cliff Villa
Honeymoon Castle: 2
Lindsay Castle: 12
Craighross Castle: 14
Cost Pezula Castle: From R22 050 per night
Honeymoon Castle: from R6 300 per night
Lindsay Castle: From R12 600 per night
Craighross Castle: From R14 400 per night
Where to find it Noetzie Beach, Noetzie Road, Knysna
MAKE A RESERVATION
Woodcutters Forest Cottages
Distance from town 24km
Setting If you want to be right on the edge of the magical Knysna forests, there are two authentic cottages in a spectacular garden waiting to enchant you. Filled with art, interesting objects and heirloom furniture, each cottage is as beautiful inside as the views are from the verandah. Botanical wallpapers, bold wall-paint colours, patterned and printed textiles, oriental carpets and vases of fresh flowers create a storybook setting. Owners Hannes and DP, a garden designer and floral artist, have truly created a piece of paradise, peaceful and soulful. To be surrounded by so much greenery and lush life is exhilarating.
The lodgings
- Woodcutter’s Cottage: 2 bedrooms (1 double bed, 2 single beds)
- bathroom with large shower and semi-outdoor bath
- Mellow Wood Cottage: 1 bedroom (queen-size bed) with ensuite shower
- fully equipped kitchen
- open-plan lounge and dining area with fireplace
- furnished verandah/patio with outdoor table (and a braai at Mellow Wood)
- magnificent garden with communal pergola/seating area
Things to do
- enjoy the gardens (picnics, sundowners, siestas, lawn games)
- forest walking trails and hikes (Circles in the Forest Hike close by)
- birdwatching and animal spotting
- swimming in rockpools at Drupkelders
- mountain-biking routes nearby
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 6
Cost Mellow Wood Cottage: from R1 050 per person sharing per night
Woodcutter’s Cottage: from R1 150 per person sharing per night
Where to find it Off Bibby’s Hoek Road, Rheenendal, Knysna
MAKE A RESERVATION
Sunset Lane Fairmile Point
Distance from town 3km
Setting Thesen Island is linked to the mainland via a causeway and bridge, and like a self-sufficient village of its own, has boutique shops and restaurants, galleries and offices, apartments and private homes. One such home is Sunset Lane, a freestanding double-storey right on the edge of the lagoon – and exactly the kind of house you’d imagine for luxury waterside living. Colonial maritime-style architecture, with white plantation shutters, wooden floors and plenty of light, it’s also super-stylishly furnished – but it’s the views that will impress most. There are several nooks and spots from which to watch the ebb and flow of the tides, the passing boats, the sun setting over the distant mountains and the twinkling lights of Knysna reflected on the dark waters at night.
The lodgings
- 3 bedrooms (1 king bed, 2 queen beds), with balconies
- 3 ensuites with a shower
- fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine
- open-plan lounge and dining area with a fireplace
- sunroom/conservatory
- furnished deck with dining table
- swimming pool
- gas braai
Things to do
- swimming in the pool or lagoon
- kayaking and boating (slipway on site)
- children’s play area
- riding bikes around the island
- walk to nearby shops and restaurants
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 6
Cost From R7 500 per night
Where to find it Thesen Harbour Town, Knysna
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Hotel-Side House at Simola
Distance from town 6km
Setting This incredible villa oozes luxe comfort paired with a seductive sense of privacy and seclusion. Tucked away on Simola Country & Golf Estate at the very top of Knysna, with the forests behind and overlooking rolling hills and the ocean beyond, this self-catering hideaway is kitted out with everything you need – and a lot of extras (like soundproofed walls). The modern, triple-level home is pretty much built from walls of glass, with accents of wood and stone; sliding doors open to wraparound wooden decks and balconies. Expect jaw-dropping views. Decor includes plenty of leather, upholstery, animal-skin rugs and ceramics, and everything is on a grand scale, from the size of the bedrooms and bathrooms to the pool.
The lodgings
- 5 bedrooms (3 king-size extra-length beds and 4 single beds)
- 5 ensuites with bath and/or walk-in shower
- private balconies
- fully equipped kitchen with coffee machine
- open-plan lounge and dining area
- TV lounges with surround sound, DVD/Blu-Ray, iPod dock
- entertainment (cigar) lounge and wine cellar
- infinity pool deck with loungers
- shaded patio with a built-in gas braai and dining area
- gym
Things to do
- swimming in the pool
- nature and forest walks
- golf
- surrounding mountain-biking trails
- play table tennis
- spa, padel courts and dining at nearby Simola Hotel
Good to know There is daily housekeeping, plus catering/chef available on request.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 10
Cost From R18 000 per night
Where to find it Old Cape Road, Knysna
MAKE A RESERVATION
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