Summer is here! The days are longer, the nights more vibrant, and the sound of unfiltered happiness fills the air. Allowing you to take full advantage of this festive time, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to summer in Knysna.
Embrace Beach-side Bliss
Arguably the best way to spend many a summer’s day in the great Knysna area is ocean-side, lazing in the white, soft sand, frolicking in the waves, playing a game of beach volleyball, or building sand castles until your heart’s content. Located in the Goukamma Nature Reserve, Buffalo Bay Beach is the closest beach to Knysna and easily one of the most popular in the region. Part of a 14km stretch of sand, it is bordered by towering sand dunes and lush coastal fynbos.
Don’t be Afraid to Get Wet
Along with a handful of nearby Blue Flag Beaches, the charming town of Knysna features some of the most exciting water-based activities, allowing you to take full advantage of the beautiful lagoon. For the more adventurous traveller, the Turbine Water Club offers 2-hour kayak hire for an affordable price, allowing you to explore the Thesen Island canal and the greater lagoon at your own pace. If you’re on the lookout for a more tranquil water-side experience, rather opt for the sunset cruise in one of the Water Club’s comfortable pontoons. As if you needed any more enticement, until 28 February 2018, you can enjoy this delightful cruise, along with a snack platter and bottle of house wine for just R490 per person.
Last, but not least, is a day out perfect for the kids. Adventure Land, situated between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, is one of the most popular waterparks in the province. Set on a massive 24 hectare estate, it features a 75m supertube, a 2 lane racer, the speedy Kamikazi Slide, the 12m Free Fall Slide, a mini-supertube, the Raging Rapid Tube ride and a number of kiddies slides and pools. Find out all about Adventure Land, here.
Work up a Sweat
Don’t let the heat of summer keep you from the vast range of enticing outdoor activities available in Knysna. If you’re the hiking type, lace up your boots and set off on one of the many hiking trails in the stunning Knysna Forest. Some of the exciting marked routes include The Three Elephant Hiking Trails, the Millwood Mine Walk, the Terreblans Forest Walk, and the Circles in a Forest hike. If your heart belongs to the fairway, then make sure to test out one of the world-class golf courses in and around Knysna. The Knysna Golf Club is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, Simola is Jack Nicklaus’s signature golf course, and the Pezula Champion Golf Course is one of the most beautifully scenic golf courses in the world.
Have a Cocktail (or two!)
Looking for the most ideal way to end off a relaxing summer’s day in Knysna? Why not enjoy with an ice-cold cocktail – or several – overlooking the lagoon. This ocean-side paradise features a vast array of restaurants, pubs and bars with breath-taking views across the water. The Turbine Hotel & Spa’s Gastro Pub boasts a laid-back atmosphere, an extensive food and drink menu, and gorgeous views across the Thesen Island canals. Situated on the rocks of the Eastern Head, East Head Café combines jaw-dropping views over the entire lagoon with an impressive cocktail menu. Tasty offerings include the Loose Goose, the Ginger Mule, the Fynbos G&T, and the Breakfast Martini. Located nearby Turbine Hotel & Spa, Sirocco is a restaurant-come-bar serving up sushi, oyster, pizzas and cocktails at the water’s edge. Make sure to try out the Alabama Slammer, the Banana Colada, the Strawberry Rita, or the Pineapple and Mint Margarita.
To find out more about the different activities in Knysna, or to book your stay at the delightful Turbine Hotel & Spa, simply get in touch us on reservations@turbinehotel.co.za or +27 44 302 5746.
Image Credits:
Werner Bayer
Turbine Hotel & Spa
