The island city of Knysna has means extra than simply 25 issues to do, with a number of water sources, beautiful viewpoints, top-class eating places and climbing trails galore.
Listed here are our suggestions of must-do actions so as to add to your itinerary when on a getaway in Knysna.
Hikes
1. Circles within the Forest
The one factor that makes this hike tough is the mud if it has been raining. Stroll beneath the timber and thru the gorgeous Knysna forest on both the 3km or 9km path.
2. White Elephant Path
Observe the White Elephants carved into the barks of timber as you stroll the 8km White Elephant path. The elevation could be robust at instances, however the forest retains the hike good and funky, even at noon.
3. Backyard of Eden
In case you’re in search of issues to do in Knysna, that is the proper spot for a leisurely 1km stroll via the Knysna Forest. The picket boards and stream crossings make this stroll wheelchair pleasant and comfy for aged travellers.
4. Kranshoek Mountain climbing Path
This 9km hike is for superior hikers, because it includes slippery inclines and scrambling. You may even see an individual or two utilizing this path to observe for the Otter Path. What makes this path so worthwhile is the unrivaled views of the ocean, forest and mountains.
To search out out extra about Knysna Forest hikes, go to: gardenrouteadventureguide.com
Viewpoints
5. Knysna Heads
The Heads are an iconic level in Knysna, the place there are views of the lagoon assembly the ocean between the 2 mountains. It is likely one of the important issues it’s essential do when visiting Knysna. The doorway is free, and for those who’re there throughout the off-season, you possibly can pack a picnic and benefit from the views with scrumptious meals.
6. Spitskop Viewpoint
After chasing the white elephants carved into the timber (aka climbing the white elephant path), take a drive as much as Spitskop Viewpoint for surroundings that may actually take your breath away.
7. Margaret’s Viewpoint
In case you’re in search of an easy-to-get-to viewpoint for sundowners, Margaret’s Viewpoint appears out over all of Knysna and is the proper place to sip a drink and watch the solar go down.
Markets
8. Wild Oats Market
This vibrant market is nice for a sluggish morning. Flick through the flower stalls, decide contemporary veggies and select from a scrumptious collection of breakfasts.
9. Friday evening market at Knysna Montessori
Sit round a giant bonfire whereas consuming artisanal pizzas (or no matter else is on provide). Youngsters typically come round with raffle tickets, there are drinks on sale, and what higher option to kick off the weekend than at a vibey night market?
10. Knysna Waterfront
The Knysna Waterfront is one other of the stuff you undoubtedly must test off your to-do listing. It’s not the identical kind of market as talked about above, nevertheless it has a variety of outlets to browse. In case you’re in want of an ‘I coronary heart Knysna’ sticker so as to add to your journey sticker assortment, that is the place to go.
11. Harkerville Market
In case you take pleasure in meals and crafts, there’s a lot to see and expertise on the Harkerville Market. There are benches and tables for those who and your mates really feel like having fun with one another’s firm amid the hustle and bustle of the market.
Seashores
12. Buffalo Bay
That is my private favorite, and the automotive park is near a few eating places if you wish to eat by the ocean. The stretch of seashore is ideal for a protracted afternoon stroll, and the seashore sunsets are unbelievable.
13. Brenton Seashore
You may’t go to Knysna and not using a journey to the seashore. Brenton Seashore is likely one of the widespread swimming spots near the city, and nice for a day on the sea.
Eating places
16. île de païn
If there’s one place you shouldn’t miss when in Knysna, it’s île de païn. Cabinets of tasty goodness are on provide as you stroll via the door, and the breakfast menu is mouthwatering. I like to recommend their organically licensed 100% sourdough bread, which is so scrumptious you possibly can eat it plain.
15. Trinity Espresso
Issues to do in Knysna have to incorporate a few of their eating places and low outlets. Trinity Coffee is a comfortable, street-side cafe that serves top-of-the-line cappuccinos within the city. The baristas are pleasant, the setting is ideal for a morning espresso or a spot to get some work accomplished, and the truffles are scrumptious.
16. Knysna Gin Distillery
For an excellent time and a few delectable alcohol selections, go to the Knysna Gin Distillery. Not solely do they promote the award-winning Knysna gin, however there’s additionally a brewery and cocktail bar for those who’re in search of one thing apart from gin.
17. Dry Dock
If you’re in search of a spot to take pleasure in a number of the city’s best seafood, pay Dry Dock a go to. On the Knysna Waterfront, overlooking the harbour, there’s nothing higher than slurping again oysters or failing at choosing up sushi together with your chopsticks whereas watching the boats docking.
18. East Head Cafe
East Head Cafe needs to be in your listing of issues to do in Knysna if you’re in search of first rate meals with a view. It’s often called an area landmark, located on the rocks of the Jap Head, and all dishes are made with contemporary, native elements.
19. Cafe Mario
Somewhat extra discreet than different well-known eating places in Knysna, Cafe Mario is the place to go for a straightforward Saturday evening dinner. I nonetheless dream about their baked pasta, they usually actually know their means round pizza-making.
Water Actions
20. Whale watching
Discover the shoreline of the Backyard Route as you seek for the migratory southern proper and humpback whales on a whale-watching experience.
21. Knysna Lagoon Tour (John Benn)
The John Benn Expertise is certainly one of Knysna’s greatest floating eating places that supply excursions of the Knysna lagoon. The cruise takes passengers to the Knysna Heads on a ship steeped in historical past.
22. SUP on Thesen Island
Rent a SUP and discover the waterways of Thesen Island. It’s a enjoyable and energetic option to see extra of Thesen Island, and the water is calm sufficient for newcomers.
23. Featherbed Nature Reserve eco-experience
Hop on a ferry throughout the lagoon to the Western Head, after which drive up onto the reserve to take pleasure in spectacular views. The specialist information provides you with insights into the encompassing fauna and flora earlier than you get to take pleasure in a scrumptious buffet lunch at their outside restaurant.
Street journeys
24. Seven Passes Street
This fantastically scenic highway journey takes you from Knysna to George through seven passes. Pack snacks and funky drinks and drive slowly alongside filth roads to absorb the beautiful mountain surroundings.
25. Prince Alfred’s Move
The longest publically accessible move in South Africa ought to most undoubtedly be in your Knysna to-do listing. The move joins Knysna to Uniondale and offers you unrivalled views as you drive.
Observe us on social media for extra journey information, inspiration, and guides. You may as well tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ: 10 amazing places to go trekking in Namibia
