The Turbine Hotel & Spa was an ambitious project which transformed an old power station into a unique 5 star boutique Knysna hotel. All the old machinery which was used in this power station has been lovingly restored and forms an integral part of the hotel’s aesthetics. Soak up its fascinating history as you walk past massive turbines on the balcony and marvel at the intriguing steel pillars and pipes that now form part of its funky décor.
A standout when it comes to Knysna accommodation, the hotel offers guests a choice of 17 standard rooms, 6 luxury rooms, a honeymoon suite, and 2 self-contained suites adjacent to the hotel. Each of the rooms provide luxurious amenities such as a flat screen TV, WiFi, a fully-stocked mini bar, and a tea and coffee station. As can be seen when exploring the hotel, the industrial backdrop of bare bricks and huge whitewashed walls is softened by a sense of playfulness in the décor. The machinery and pipes are painted in vivid red, blue, green and orange, matched by dining chairs in different bright colours. All sorts of unusual instruments and contraptions are dotted around the hotel which will keep engineers, scientists and curious visitors fascinated for hours.
One of the best boutique Knysna hotels, Turbine Hotel & Spa is part of a Heritage Walk, with its four imposing steam towers visible from afar. Yet there’s nothing old fashioned about it now, with modern 5-star facilities including the Turbine Spa, the excellent Island Café, a pool with a great view on the wooden deck and a variety of activities to keep you entertained.
The 90-seater Island Café restaurant at the Turbine Hotel overlooks the stunning canal and serves up extraordinary dishes from a diverse a la carte menu. The Gastro Pub, on the other hand, is the perfect spot to enjoy after-work drinks, catch the latest rugby or football game or indulge in a post-dinner night cap. Alternatively, celebrate the end of another glorious day in Knysna on Geoff’s Deck whilst sipping on something from the extensive drinks menu, and filling up on an imaginative pub-style variety of snacks.
The Turbine Spa is one of the finest on the Garden Route, offering guests a wide variety of relaxing treatments from massages to facials and a Rhassoul Steam Room.
Thesen Island presents an ideal launchpad for a diverse array of activities in Knysna, ensuring that every visitor finds an experience perfectly suited to their desires and interests. Things to do include renting a bike to explore the island, lagoon cruises, whale watching and much more.
REVIEW
Most Amazing Hotel
This by far the coolest hotel we have ever stayed at. The attention to detail showcasing the old turbine power plant is unbelievable. Service and food is top notch. Our room was unbelievable so much natural light and windows and artifacts from plants throughout the room.
Emser, South Africa (January 2024)
The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa
Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands
Knysna, South Africa
+27 (0) 44 050 3500 book@turbinehotel.co.za
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