A Garden Route gem, Knysna is the ideal destination to break up the monotony of day-to-day life. So to provide you with some travel inspiration, and to make the process of planning a getaway to this seaside town that much easier, we’ve mapped out a complete itinerary for 48 hours in Knysna.
Day One
1:00 PM – Arrival at Turbine Hotel & Spa
Turbine Hotel & Spa is situated on Thesen Island in Knysna, a 6 hour’s drive from Cape Town, 60 km away from George, and a 3 hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth. Whether you choose to drive all the way from Cape Town, or whether you choose to fly to George or Port Elizabeth, and then rent a car, look to arrive at Turbine Hotel & Spa sometime around lunchtime, to fully take advantage of your first day in Knysna.
1:30 PM – Lunch at Gastro Pub
Ease yourself into the afternoon with a hearty meal at the Gastro Pub, one of two restaurants at Knysna Hotel & Spa. Built around the hotel’s fifth turbine, the Gastro Pub boasts a laid-back setting and an enticing menu featuring various gourmet finger food options. If it’s chilly, find yourself a spot inside near the bar, and sink into one of the comfortable arm chairs. If the weather is fine, make your way onto the sunny deck which overlooks the bustling Thesen Island plaza.
Check out the menu, here!
3:00 PM – Visit the Knysna Heads Viewpoint
Located at the end of Coney Glen Road, on the Eastern Knysna Head, this magnificent viewpoint presents jaw-dropping coastal vistas. As you slowly stroll along the contoured cliff-edge pathway, take in views of the entire Knysna lagoon, the stormy “mouth” of the heads below, and the lush western head.
5:00 PM – Set out on a sunset cruise
The Turbine Water Club is the designated Adventure Centre at Turbine Hotel & Spa. From here, you can arrange a leisurely cruise on the Knysna Lagoon to watch the sun go down, and to admire the Knysna Heads from a different, yet equally spectacular angle. Our two motorised pontoon barges seat up to 10 people comfortably.
7:00 PM – Dinner at the Island Café
The 90-seater Island Café at Turbine Hotel & Spa is one of the most popular restaurants in Knysna, and for good reason. Inside, tables are nestled between the original turbines, which have been lovingly restored to create a retro feel. Large sliding doors create an airy interior, and lead out onto a lovely terrace, which overlooks the canal – a secluded setting perfect for al fresco dining.
The dinner menu at Island Cafe can be found here!
Like what you see so far? Stay tuned for Part 2 of our guide to spending 48 hours in Knysna.
