The Knysna Oyster Festival is an annual event that takes place along the Garden Route region of South Africa. This lush area, otherwise known as the Eden of South Africa, recently endured a devastating setback when fires raged out of control in the Knysna region. The area is slowly being developed and rebuilt after the fires, and the Knysna Oyster Festival continues to thrive. The festival takes place during South Africa’s June/July school holidays and is a festival offering a programme of exciting events ideal for the whole family. There’s the famous Knysna marathon that’s at the heart of the festival, and runners flock to the region from around South Africa to enjoy a scenic run through the forest and its surrounds.
Pezula Hotel and Golf Course
It goes without saying that The Garden Route is a fantastic destination for golfing. From endless lush landscapes to sea views, and wild vegetation teeming with game, the Garden Route has certainly earned its reputation as South Africa’s Eden.
Garden Route is also a renowned golfing destination and has the likes of Fancourt, Pinnacle Point, Simola, Oubaai, George, Goose Valley and many others. Pezula golf course is a first-class destination for golfers, and the Pezula Hotel offers easy access to the greens. It’s also a perfectly sophisticated destination for non-golfers to indulge in a spot of luxury. As a matter of fact, the luxurious Pezula Hotel caters for a wide variety of traveller. From honeymooners to golfing groups and young families, Pezula offers a world of wonder in the heart of the Garden Route, complete with beautifully appointed suites and stand-alone villas. The accommodation options come complete with WiFi, air-conditioning and the amenities from home.
The villas differ from the deluxe suites in that they come complete with their own private pool, entertainment area and sweeping views of Knysna and surrounds. The delightful deluxe suites offer a tranquil retreat with hearty fireplaces and blissful garden views.
The hotel has plenty to keep you occupied. There’s a 12-metre indoor pool, spa facility, sauna, health bar and a post-treatment relaxation zone. This is the perfect place to unwind after running an intense marathon!
Head Over Hills Luxury Retreat
Located on top of the famous cascading cliffs of the Knysna Heads, sits a sophisticated retreat called Head over Hills. This five-star luxury hideaway has exquisite vistas of the temperamental and vast Indian Ocean, the tranquil Knysna lagoon and the jagged coastline. The Heads is a tourist hotspot, yet remains an idyllic and peaceful area. Head Over Hills is a sought after destination and offers plenty of relaxation options for those needing some R&R after running the arduous oyster festival Knysna marathon. There’s a sparkling rim-flow swimming pool with panoramic views of the Garden Route’s unique coastline, a wooden decking area overlooking the ocean, a well-stocked bar complete with premium range alcohol, and a wine cellar!
This is an exclusive resort, one that only has 8 rooms available. This ensures guests are able to experience personalized service in an intimate environment. The child policy only allows for children 12 years and older because of its position high up on a cliff.
In terms of accommodation, there are a few options available. There are 4 ultra luxurious suites available, and each one has something unique to offer its guest. For example, the Elephant Suite has its own sauna and the seahorse suite is a mini suite with a view of the lagoon. In conjunction with these luxury suites, there are also the more affordable 4 deluxe suites. Rooms are plush and offer amenities such as Smeg fridges, Nespresso machines, WiFi and other luxurious comforts.
The St James of Knysna
The St James is a classic old building that would not look out of place in a historical novel. The St James is a country house hotel that gives the impression of being a manor house. Set upon lawns that flow down to the gentle shores of the Knysna lagoon, this exclusive hotel certainly sets the standard in terms of country luxury. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay that’s quintessential “Knysna”, then St James certainly should be your destination of choice.
The individually appointed rooms and suites boast incredible views of the serene lagoon surrounding St James Manor. Views extend all the way over the manicured gardens to the lagoon and out to the protective and looming Knysna Heads. Rooms are scattered around the courtyard and throughout the Manor house. Rooms are all equipped with en-suite bathrooms, minibars, and tea/coffee making facilities.
