Situated halfway along the Garden Route, Knysna makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding region. The town itself has good restaurants, excellent self-catering cottages, and hotels, and offers a range of water-based activities on its huge, tranquil lagoon. Knysna is arguably the Garden Route’s prettiest town and a must-see stop on this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Highlights of Knysna
Each year the Knysna Oyster Festival attracts thousands of visitors and for 10 days in early July, the town turns itself over to all things oyster, with restaurants, bars, and pop-up stands all vying to deliver the ultimate fresh oyster to their patrons. The festival is now also one of South Africa’s most popular sporting events for road cycling, mountain biking and trail running, and it’s a year-round destination for nature and water sports lovers. Both the lagoon in front and the forests behind Knysna are protected as part of the Garden Route National Park and have hiking trails and picnic areas.
Practical + driving advice for Knysna
The N2 highway runs directly through the town and the small beach communities of Buffels Bay and Knoetzie are just a few minutes’ drive in either direction. Over the ridge that separates Knysna from the ocean, Brenton-on-Sea has phenomenal views and an amazing beach. There are lots to see and do in the area and nothing along the Garden Route is more than a few hours’ drive away. If you would like to inquire about our vehicle rental options, one of our consultants will readily assist with any questions you may have.
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Each year the Knysna Oyster Festival attracts thousands of visitors and for 10 days in early July, the town turns itself over to all things oyster, with restaurants, bars, and pop-up stands all vying to deliver the ultimate fresh oyster to their patrons. The festival is now also one of South Africa’s most popular sporting events for road cycling, mountain biking and trail running, and it’s a year-round destination for nature and water sports lovers. Both the lagoon in front and the forests behind Knysna are protected as part of the Garden Route National Park and have hiking trails and picnic areas.
