We have created a list with cool, unusual and unique hotels in Knysna, South Africa. We have also included accommodation in guest houses, country estates, boats, manor houses, villas, apartments, boutique hotels, holiday homes, lodges, romantic hotels and historic buildings. Hope you enjoy it. We think it might be the best of its kind around. Tip: Set your dates to see room prices!
A list by Ella Hofer & Maryna Kravets. Updated January 2024.
Lodge.Cool. Candlewood Lodge is a 5-star bed and breakfast located only minutes away from the centre of town and boasts spectacular views over the Knysna Heads and Knysna Lagoon. With an emphasis to detail, the guest rooms have been tastefully designed and uniquely decorated. Candlewood Lodge is ideally located to explore Knysna and its beautiful surrounding and is an ideal base to venture further along the Garden Route. All rooms have en suite shower, a separate area and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area. Candlewood has a bar area where guests can take a drink and read a book. Relax and sunbathe the whole day by the an outdoor pool, jacuzzi and sun deck. Knysna Golf Club is 3.3 km away, while both Pezula Championship Golf Course and Simola Golf Course are within 6 km from the property. Candlewood Lodge can assist with arranging tee times and equipment.Show full description
Boutique hotel.Relaxing atmosphere. Gorgeous surroundings. Located in Knysna, 6.1 km from Simola Golf and Country Estate, Knysna Hollow Country Estate provides accommodation with free bikes, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. Featuring a shared lounge, this property also provides guests with a children's playground. A buffet, à la carte or continental breakfast is available daily at the property. The hotel has a terrace and pool views, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar. All units at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. Knysna Hollow Country Estate features certain units that include a balcony, and all rooms include a coffee machine. At the accommodation every room has bed linen and towels. Guests at Knysna Hollow Country Estate will be able to enjoy activities in and around Knysna, like cycling. Knysna Forest is 6.5 km from the hotel, while Knysna Heads is 10 km away. The nearest airport is Plettenberg Bay, 34 km from Knysna Hollow Country Estate, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.Show full description
Boutique hotel.Elegant. Great value. Located on a 3 acre estate, this property offers luxury rooms with lagoon views, 2 swimming pools and a landscaped garden. It is 15 minutes’ drive from Pezula Golf Club. St. James of Knysna offers rooms and suites fitted with deluxe bedding and furniture. Room amenities include satellite TV, minibar and a tea/coffee maker. Bathrobes and international adaptors are provided for all rooms. Breakfast is served in the morning and light snacks are also available. Guests can enjoy a complimentary lagoon cruise on The Boat. Massage treatments are also available. Located on Knysna Lagoon, St. James of Knysna is a few minutes’ drive from the fishing, yachting and scuba diving activities nearby. It is 1.5 km away from Simola Golf and Country Estate.Show full description
Apartment.Creative. Lovely surroundings. Popular among couples. Perched high above the village, Paradise Private Zen Studios offer studio accommodation with views of either the garden, lagoon, town and the famous Knysna Heads. Free WiFi is available. The studios are fitted with a satellite TV and a kitchenette with fridge, kettle, induction plate, crockery cutlery. Toiletries, bathrobes and a hair dryer are available. There is complimentary yoghurt, muesli, fruit juice, coffee, tea, milk, sugar filtered water. Guests can relax on the furnished deck offering lagoon views and barbecue evenings can be arranged in the boma. If you would like to discover the area, cycling, canoeing and hiking are possible in the surroundings. The Knysna Waterfront can be reached within 5 minutes' drive.Show full description
I would describe this as the most CREATIVE apartment in Knysna.
Bed and Breakfast.Charming. Nice surroundings. Set just 4.4 km from Pezula Golf Club, bWhale guest house offers accommodation in Knysna with access to a garden, barbecue facilities, as well as a 24-hour front desk. This property offers access to a terrace and free private parking. You can play table tennis and darts at bWhale guest house, and the area is popular for cycling. The bed and breakfast features family rooms as well as facilities for disabled guests. The units in the bed and breakfast are equipped with a kettle. The units are equipped with a coffee machine, a private bathroom and free WiFi, while certain rooms here will provide you with a patio and some have garden views. At the bed and breakfast, all units are equipped with bed linen and towels. Continental and vegetarian breakfast options with warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries are available every morning at the bed and breakfast. Guests may relax in the on-site bar or lounge, while packed lunches are also available upon request. The accommodation has an outdoor fireplace and a picnic area. Knysna Heads is 4.9 km from bWhale guest house, while Simola Golf and Country Estate is 13 km away. The nearest airport is Plettenberg Bay, 33 km from the bed and breakfast, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.Show full description
In my judgement this could be one of the most charming, relaxing and romantic bed and breakfasts in Knysna! AMAZING.
Guest House.Historic. Great views. Kanonkop Guest House offers luxurious comfort, breathtaking views of the Knysna Lagoon and Heads, serene atmosphere and unique personal service along Western Cape’s enchanting Garden Route. The accommodation in Kanonkop ensures exclusivity and privacy, and the spacious, bright rooms are beautifully appointed and decorated by top South African designers. This family-owned guest house is surrounded by a beautiful garden and small indigenous forest that attracts wildlife and an abundance of birds. Enjoy their antics whilst relaxing on a lounger next to the pool. Knysna, a favourite South African coastal resort town, spoils you for choice with fine beaches, magnificent forests ideal for gentle strolls or strenuous hikes and a wide range of restaurants and shops. The owners will be more than happy to offer advice and help you organise the perfect day.Show full description
Guest House.Highly elegant. Lovely interior design. Falcons View Manor is situated on a hill overlooking Knysna Lagoon, 700 metres from the town centre. It features an outdoor pool, a library and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. The hotel is 5 km from Simola Golf Club, which was designed by the great Jack Nicklaus. All of the stylish guest bedrooms at Falcons View Manor are equipped with digital TV and hot drink facilities. Every room is air-conditioned and also features a hairdryer and a safety deposit box. A full English breakfast is served each morning in the hotel’s elegant dining room, which offers a varied international menu for lunch and dinner. When the weather is pleasant guests can also dine in the tranquil Tea Garden. Falcons View Manor is 1 km from Knysna Harbour, where you can rent a boat and explore the Knysna National Lakes Area. Falcons View Manor is 38 km from Plettenberg Airport and 1 km from Knysna Railway Station.Show full description
I rate this as one of the most ELEGANT guest houses in Knysna.
Guest House.Very stylish. Set in Knysna, 30 metres from Bollard Bay Beach, One on Bollard offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. Boasting a garden, the guest house is close to several noted attractions, around 1.9 km from Coney Glen Beach, 1.7 km from Knysna Heads and 1.8 km from View Point Eastern Knysna Head. All guest rooms come with a patio with garden views, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and Netflix, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk. At the guest house all rooms include a wardrobe and a private bathroom. Guests at One on Bollard can enjoy a continental or a buffet breakfast. The accommodation offers a sun terrace. The area is popular for hiking and cycling, and car hire is available at One on Bollard. Guests can rent free bicycles and kayaks. Knysna Forest is 7 km from the guest house, while Knysna National Lake Area is 3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Plettenberg Bay, 25 km from One on Bollard, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.Show full description
Bed and Breakfast.Popular among women. Located within 6.4 km of Simola Golf and Country Estate and 6.9 km of Knysna Forest in Knysna, De View provides accommodation with seating area. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi. When staying at the bed and breakfast, guests can use private entrance. The units are equipped with a flat-screen TV with streaming services, fridge, a kettle, a walk-in shower, a hair dryer and a desk. All units include a private bathroom, free toiletries and bed linen. A selection of options including fruits, juice and cheese is served for the continental breakfast. Knysna Heads is 8.9 km from De View, while Pezula Golf Club is 10 km away. The nearest airport is Plettenberg Bay Airport, 32 km from the accommodation.Show full description
Guest House.Lively. Great views. Cambalala is a luxury guest house ideally situated in Paradise with magnificent views over the Knysna lagoon. This is the perfect place to forget about the rest of the world and lose yourself in South Africa's favourite town. We proudly offer stylish and comfortable accommodation with the very best of service and hospitality.Show full description
I would describe this as the most LIVELY guest house in Knysna. It also has outstanding views!
Guest House.Elegant. Great bar. Popular among couples. This guest house offers spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi and panoramic views of the lagoon and Knysna Heads. It features a swimming pool with a sun deck and a library. Villa Afrikana Guest Suites by Knysna Paradise Collection feature a blend of African and contemporary décor. All rooms have deluxe bedding which include feather and down duvets. Custom bathroom amenities are provided in each private bathroom. Most rooms have private balconies which offer stunning views of Knysna’s magnificent lagoon. All balconies feature a table and chairs or loungers. Villa Afrikana has easy access to South Africa’s popular Garden Route. It is 1 mile from Knysna Waterfront Ferries. Pezula and Simola Golf Courses are a 15-minute drive away.Show full description
This guest house is popular among couples travelling to Knysna.
Guest House.Delightful property. Nice surroundings. Offering an outdoor pool and a cosy lounge and bar, Parkes Manor is a classic, historical house located within 2 km from the Knysna Waterfront. The country-style suites are elegantly decorated and feature under-floor heating, a sofa and air conditioning. It includes a desk, safe and en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower. Some suites offer a view of the Knysna lagoon. At Parkes Manor guests can enjoy breakfast in the dining room and light meals are available upon advance request. An array of restaurants can be found within 2 km. Guests can relax on the terrace and in the large, lush gardens which surround the swimming pool. There is a also a tee-off and a putting green for golfers in the garden. Nearby attractions include the Knysna Heads, Simola Golf and Country Estate, and Brenton-on-Sea beach. Free WiFi and private parking is available and the George Airport is within 1 hours’ drive.Show full description
Perhaps this is the most BEAUTIFUL guest house in Knysna.
Guest House.Popular among women. Overlooking the Knysna Lagoon, Paradise Found is situated at the end of a quiet cul de sac and 2 km away from the centre of Knsyna and the Waterfront. The units at Paradise Found have a balcony or patio with magnificent lagoon views. They are equipped with satellite TV and a private bathroom with shower. At Paradise Found you will find a garden and barbecue facilities. The property offers free parking. The guest house is a 10-minute drive from Thesens Island.Show full description
Guest House.Elegant. Great value. Popular among couples. THEBLOEM Guest Suites by Knysna Paradise Collection, a property with a bar, is located in Knysna, 6.4 km from Simola Golf and Country Estate, 6.8 km from Knysna Forest, as well as 9 km from Knysna Heads. Each accommodation at the 5-star guest house has lake views, and guests can enjoy access to an outdoor swimming pool and to a garden. There is a sun terrace and guests can make use of free WiFi and free private parking. The units at the guest house come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, bathrobes and slippers. A minibar is also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle. At the guest house, each unit is equipped with bed linen and towels. There is a snack bar, and packed lunches are also available. Sightseeing tours are available nearby. A bicycle rental service is available at the guest house. Pezula Golf Club is 10 km from THEBLOEM Guest Suites by Knysna Paradise Collection, while Goose Valley Golf Club is 37 km away. The nearest airport is Plettenberg Bay, 33 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.Show full description
Apartment.Great location. On the water - Thesen is located in the Thesen Island district of Knysna, 8.1 km from Knysna Heads, 8.3 km from Knysna Forest and 9.1 km from Pezula Golf Club. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony and free private parking. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 2 bedrooms, 2 living rooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and a coffee machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bath and free toiletries. You can play tennis at the apartment. The property is non-smoking and is set 7.8 km from Simola Golf and Country Estate. A TV with satellite channels is featured. On the water - Thesen features a sun terrace and a children's playground. Goose Valley Golf Club is 36 km from the accommodation, while Robberg Nature Reserve is 37 km away. The nearest airport is Plettenberg Bay Airport, 32 km from On the water - Thesen.Show full description
Boutique hotel.Trendy. Great location. Welcome to The Lofts Boutique Hotel, a family-owned hotel that promises to offer you the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Situated on the edge of the picturesque Knysna Estuary. Our hotel features beautifully appointed rooms & apartments, each designed with your comfort in mind. Some rooms have exquisite views of the Knysna Lagoon (King Room with Lake View) others have large sunny private balconies (Standard Double Room) or self-catering facilities (Apartments). We are located on Thesen Island, a world-renowned destination that provides visitors with an abundance of shopping and dining options, as well as easy access to a variety of activities and tours. Whether you’re interested in kayaking (free access from the hotel), taking a sunset cruise, or exploring the surrounding natural beauty, there is something for everyone. With luxurious bedding, plush furnishings all the modern amenities you need. For those looking for delicious food and drinks, we have two of the best restaurants in town right inside our building. Our hotel restaurant, Nest Food Bar, serves brunch, dinner, and cocktails, and is known for its unique decor and vibey atmosphere. The famous café and bakery Ile de Pain is located right next door and is renowned for its artisanal bread, pastries, and café-style menu! We pride ourselves on offering the best sunsets in town, and the friendliest hospitality to all our guests. We are also well-known for our ‘Sunset Sessions’ event, held on Saturdays (during the summer season), with a live DJ playing house music on our deck, providing the perfect backdrop for you to enjoy the stunning sunset views over the Lagoon. Activities & Surrounds: - Le Spa Tranquill & Turbine Spa is nearby for guests to enjoy luxury spa treatments. - Simola & Pezula Golf Estate, as well as Knysna Golf Club is less than a 15-minute drive from the hotel. - Thesen Harbour Town & Knysna Waterfront are within 1 km. Please Note: Due to our hotel's boutique nature, each room has a unique layout & décor & not all rooms have lagoon views - to book a room with a lagoon view please select the 'King Room with Lagoon View'.Show full description
Guest House. Double Dutch offers bed and breakfast in Knysna and views over the Knysna lagoon. Set in extensive garden, it boasts an outdoor swimming pool. Each room at Double Dutch features satellite TV, a refrigerator and tea/coffee facilities. All have a seating area and a private bathroom with under floor heating. Breakfast is served every morning in the dining room. Room service is also available. Double Dutch is a short walk from Knysna's town centre where guests will find restaurants and shopping malls. Free secure parking is available on site.Show full description
Guest House.Great bar. Offering panoramic views over the Knysna Estuary, Westhill Luxury Guest House features an outdoor pool, free Wifi throughout and free private parking on-site. It is a 10-minute walk from the town centre. Each air-conditioned room features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, en suite bathrooms with double basins and a bath and walk-in shower. Bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries are included. Westhill Luxury Guest House provides continental, vegetarian or full English breakfast, included in the price. Business services can also be provided. The Garden Route can be explored conveniently from Westhill Luxury Guest House. Contact us to help you plan activities and events in the areas.Show full description
Guest House.Very cosy. Nice interior design. Chez Pierre in Knysna features free bikes and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Among the various facilities are a garden and a terrace. Guests can take part in various activities in the surroundings, including cycling and fishing. East Head with beautiful views over the ocean is only 2 km away and George airport is 50 km from the property We have an invertor generator, so are not affected by loadshedding. The guest house features a shared lounge. At the guest house, every room has a desk and a flat-screen TV. Chez Pierre provides certain units with mountain views, and all rooms are fitted with a coffee machine. All guest rooms have a private bathroom. A continental breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable.Show full description
Holiday Home.Hip. Superb interior design. Featuring accommodation with a private pool, lake view and a patio, Thesen Lagoon House is set in Knysna. This property offers access to a balcony, tennis at the tennis court, free private parking and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking and is located 7.6 km from Simola Golf and Country Estate. The spacious holiday home with a terrace and mountain views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the holiday home. There is also a seating area and a fireplace. Guests can take advantage of the warm weather with the property's barbecue facilities. Guests at the holiday home will be able to enjoy activities in and around Knysna, like snorkelling, diving and cycling. Guests at Thesen Lagoon House can enjoy fishing and hiking nearby, or make the most of the garden. Knysna Heads is 7.9 km from the accommodation, while Knysna Forest is 8.1 km away. The nearest airport is Plettenberg Bay Airport, 31 km from Thesen Lagoon House.Show full description
Based on my research this is one of the coolest and most WELL DESIGNED holiday homes in Knysna.
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