While Knysna is a fascinating attraction in and of itself, should you feel the need to hop in the car and head out for an adventurous day excursion, there are a host of enchanting destinations nearby the cosy town. For this installment of Knysna Day Trips we highlight the charming towns: Mossel Bay, Plettenberg Bay and Sedgefield.
Mossel Bay
Mid-way between Cape Town and Knysna, follow the rugged coast down to the seaside town of Mossel Bay – a favourite holiday destination among local and international leisure travellers. A small harbour town with long, sandy beaches, it is known for extraordinary whale watching, exhilarating boat rides and adventurous outdoor activities.
Get a jolt of adrenalin on a day of shark diving off the coast of the town, sailing upon waters of the Indian Ocean, or bungee jumping off the Gourits River Bridge. Catch site of incredible marine mammals such as Southern Right Whales, Bryde’s Whales, Killer Whales, Common dolphins and Humpback dolphins on one of many ocean tours offered. Elsewise, explore the rich history of this seaside town with a visit to the museum, or simply get a dose of retail therapy with an all-day shopping excursion.
Distance from Knysna: 110 km South-West (1.5 hours’ drive)
Plettenberg Bay
The Robberg Nature Reserve is one of Plett’s most revered features, offering visitors a number of walking and hiking trails with breath-taking views over the magnificent ocean and lush surrounds. Walking trails are of varying difficulty, but provide excellent viewpoints for cliff-based whale and dolphin sightings. In particular, the Nelson’s Bay Caves is a brilliant vantage point for land-based whale watching.
On the other end of the wildlife spectrum, the Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is home to over 30 species of game, including lion, rhino, buffalo, hippo and various antelope. As such, within the game reserve lies the opportunity for a multitude of exciting activities. Game drives, horse-back safaris, and more.
Distance from Knysna: 30 km East (30 minutes’ drive)
Sedgefield
Whilst most widely known as a paragliding mecca, Sedgefield also offers travellers a wide range of aquatic attractions, including canoeing, yachting, jet skiing, swimming, surfing, wind surfing, and kite surfing.
Boasting a large lagoon, Sedgefield is wedged between Swartvlei Lake and Groenvlei Lake. Slow down to the speed of nature and engage in a range of other outdoor activities. Picnic on the shores of the lagoon, hike a nature trail, lounge on one of the lengthy sandy beaches, or cycle along the town’s back roads.
Distance from Knysna: 25 km West (20 minutes’ drive)
