Knysna – The gem of the Garden Route has officially stolen my heart (and Why You Need to go!) What began as an exciting influencer trip to the stunning Turbine Hotel & Spa quickly blossomed into an unforgettable journey of luxury, adventure, and authentic South African charm. If you’re dreaming of a getaway that blends relaxation with exhilarating experiences, then pack your bags… this itinerary is for you!
Get ready to dive into every detail of my magical experience, from spa indulgence to forest explorations and marine encounters. Consider this your ultimate guide to experiencing Knysna like a local, with a touch of five-star treatment.
Day 1: Arrival, Architectural Wonders & Pure Bliss
My Knysna adventure kicked off with eager anticipation! After a smooth journey (with a quick packing essentials flat lay, of course!), I arrived at my home for the next few days: the truly unique Turbine Hotel & Spa.
Arrival & Check-in: Stepping into the Turbine is like entering a design masterpiece. This boutique hotel, ingeniously converted from an old power station, is a testament to intuitive architecture. Every corner tells a story, blending industrial heritage with modern luxury. My room reveal was pure joy, those architectural details are something else!
Tip for fellow travelers: Take your time exploring the hotel. The attention to detail in its conversion is fascinating, and there are hidden nooks to discover.
Lunch at Island Café: My welcome to Knysna was a delightful lunch at the Island Café, perched right on the pool deck. Fresh, delicious, and with a beautiful view of Thesen Islands. It was the perfect introduction to the culinary delights awaiting me.
Spa Indulgence at Turbine Spa: After travel, there’s nothing quite like a pamper session. The Turbine Spa was pure bliss! My 30-minute massage was exactly what I needed to melt away any lingering travel fatigue. Feeling refreshed and ready for an amazing evening.
Traveler’s Tip: Don’t skip the spa! It’s an oasis of calm and the perfect way to unwind. Even a short treatment makes a world of difference.
Mocktails & Dinner at Gastro Pub: The evening brought vibrant energy at the Turbine Hotel’s Gastro Pub. The vibe is effortlessly cool, and the food? A delicious ‘turbine twist’ on classic pub fare. Mocktails were expertly crafted to cheer into an incredible first day!
Recommendation: Try their signature cocktails! They’re creative and a true highlight.
Day 2: Adventure, Ocean Wonders & A Special Encounter
Day two dawned with the promise of adventure, and Knysna delivered!
Breakfast & Knysna Forest Hike: Fuelled by a delicious breakfast at the Island Café (those views!), I was ready to immerse myself in nature. A 3-hour hike through the ancient Knysna Forest was an absolute dream. The air was crisp, the trees towering: it’s a truly magical natural wonder that connects you to the heart of the Garden Route.
Must-Do: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water. The forest is beautiful, but some trails can be uneven.
Lunch at Gastro Pub (Round Two!): Post-hike cravings are real, and the Gastro Pub once again came to the rescue. The perfect re-fuel after that invigorating forest adventure. My taste buds were as happy as my tired feet!
Marine Eco Tour with Ocean Odyssey: This was a definite highlight! An incredible Marine Eco Tour with Ocean Odyssey on the Oyster Catcher. Witnessing the beauty of Knysna from the water is an unforgettable experience. We spotted so much marine life, from playful dolphins to majestic birds. The Knysna Lagoon is teeming with life, and seeing it up close was breath-taking.
Don’t Miss This! This tour offers a unique perspective of Knysna and its incredible biodiversity. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Dinner at Island Café with GM Kate Christie: The day culminated in a truly special evening at the Island Café. I had the immense pleasure of being joined by Kate Christie, the General Manager of Turbine Hotel & Spa. The ambiance was magical, and the conversation even more so. It’s these personal touches that elevate a luxury experience.
Insider Tip: If you get a chance to chat with the hotel staff or management, take it! They often have the best insights and stories about the area.
Day 3: Farewell Knysna, Until We Meet Again!
My final morning was bittersweet, but filled with gratitude for an unforgettable stay.
Breakfast & Check-out: One last delicious breakfast at the Island Café, savouring the final moments of the incredible Turbine Hotel & Spa experience. Every moment here has been pure magic. From the serene spa treatments to thrilling forest hikes and breath-taking marine tours, my trip was an absolute dream.
Knysna, You Stole My Heart!
Knysna truly is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a taste of authentic South African hospitality. The Turbine Hotel & Spa served as the perfect base, blending historical charm with modern luxury and impeccable service.
If Knysna wasn’t on your travel radar before, I hope it is now! This trip has been a beautiful reminder of the incredible experiences waiting to be discovered right here in South Africa.
Stay tuned for more travel adventures – next stop, Stellenbosch!
The social handles are below – please ask Turbine Hotel to collaborate on all posts.
Turbine: LinkedIn: the turbine hotel & Spa
Facebook & Instagram: Turbine Hotel & Spa | turbinehotel | @islandcafeknysna
Ocean Odyssey – Facebook/Instagram
