Thesen Island: Your Rainy Day Itinerary

Our little island is home to a handful of intimate galleries featuring local talent and works inspired by the Garden Route’s natural beauty. Pop into Knysna Fine Art (just a short walk away) or explore smaller design studios showcasing sculpture, ceramics, and coastal photography.

Tip: You don’t have to leave the hotel to enjoy beautiful regional art. The Turbine Hotel & Spa showcases work in our public areas and suites – on loan from Knysna Fine Art Gallery. If you see something you’d like to purchase, simply let us know!

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to linger over breakfast. île de païn, a Thesen Island institution, serves up artisanal pastries, legendary bread, and rich coffee in a light-filled space that’s both stylish and warm. The smell of fresh baking alone is enough to brighten any mood.

Tip: Buy your favourite pastry to enjoy back at the hotel later with a cosy cup of tea.

Image Credits: Instagram | iledepain 

Rainy days give us the perfect excuse to unwind in a more self-indulgent way. Cue our award-winning Turbine Spa, right in the heart of the hotel.

Our skin can really take a beating in the chilly winter weather, which is why this doubles as an excellent way to give your body the TLC it needs!

Book a massage, facial, manicure or try one of our signature packages that combine an array of treatments as the rain taps gently on the windows.

Tip: It’s always great to plan an afternoon nap after a spa treatment. The relaxation factor can leave some guests feeling sleepy!

Since you’re staying in Thesen Island’s premier boutique hotel right on the canals, there’s no better time to enjoy your room’s luxury amenities and cosy interior. The rain adds a magical element to the view from your balcony!

Curl up with a novel and a warm drink while boats glide along the quiet canals. Don’t have a book? Pop out to a bookstore and buy a holiday read that takes you directly to your happy place.

Tip: Room service, anyone?

At The Gastro Pub, you can do both!

Shelter from the rain with an informal indoor tasting session. We stock a wide variety of wine from the Cape Winelands and locally crafted gins. Pair your drinks with a few of the small plates on our menu.

On cold days you’ll find a glorious fire on the go – a cosy little haven right on your doorstep.

Tip: Keep an eye on our Events Page to see what’s on at The Gastro Pub during your stay, from live music to Happy Hour.

Rainy days were made for long lunches at Island Café, our in-house eatery where you will enjoy many fantastic meals during your stay. We offer hearty fare and excellent seafood, among other meal options, and wonderful sweet treats to enjoy with coffee afterwards.

Settle in, order something tasty and let the day unfold at a leisurely “island” pace.

Tip: D’s Seafood Curry is a particular favourite on cold, rainy days. Enjoy fresh seafood cooked in a “Bo-kaap” spiced tomato curry with steamed coconut rice, cucumber, yoghurt & pickled coconut.

Rainy days on Thesen Island offer a different kind of magic: Quiet, reflective, and full of simple pleasures. It’s an invitation to slow down, indulge the senses, and explore the island’s softer side.

To book your stay at The Turbine Hotel & Spa, browse our luxury room options and secure your date via our online booking platform.

Alternatively, get in touch with our reservation team at book@turbinehotel.co.za for personal assistance.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Thesen Island!