KNYSNA
Knysna is one of the Garden Route’s best known travel destinations and is situated on the banks of a shimmering lagoon nestled between the Outeniqua Mountains and Indian Ocean. It is a vibrant town with a fine selection of accommodation, restaurants and many activities making it a perfect stop for travellers exploring this area as well as for holiday makers. It has been chosen as South Africa’s town of the year for a few years in a row and even recognized as one of the top 100 destinations in the world by Trip Advisor, 2008 Travelers’ Choice Destination Awards. The estuary, known as the National Lake Area, is managed and protected by SANParks and is a biologically rich and fascinating area which is home to over 200 species of fish, the Pansy shell and the endangered Knysna Seahorse. The indigenous forests, fynbos, lakes, rivers and mountains, combined with a moderate climate, make this area a natural Garden of Eden for flora and fauna lovers alike. The indigenous forests constitute the largest complex of closed-canopy forest in Southern Africa. In and around this area one will find a selection of gourmet restaurants, pubs, coffee shops to match your mood and budget. For the shopper, there are interesting shops tucked away around every corner ranging from arts and crafts to traditional products and handcrafted furniture made from indigenous timber. It is well known for its fine indigenous timbers, and famed for the craftsmanship of its furniture and timber products. Beaches, lakes, mountains and rivers provide endless opportunities for leisure and outdoor adventure lovers. Some of the adventure and outdoor activities available in the area include tree canopy gliding, kloofing, abseiling, boating and hiking. Recently the town has also become a preferred destination among golfers, as the town boasts several world class golf courses including Pezula Golf Course, Simola Golf Course and the established Knysna Golf Course situated on the lagoon. It has spectacular beaches at Brenton-on-Sea, Buffalo Bay, Bollards Bay on Leisure Isle and at Noetzie. Cultural tours are available that enable visitors to gain an insight into both African and European history. The annual Pick n Pay Oyster Festival in hosted in July, an event that attracts large numbers of visitors from far field. The Pink Loerie Mardi Gras is also held annually end of April/ beginning of May.
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