Knysna Paradise
Garden Route, South Africa

© Johan Boshoff
Knysna is one of the Southern Cape coasts best known holiday destinations, situated between lush forests and the shores of the peaceful lagoon - it offers many activities and attractions of a wide variety.

Knysna Attractions

The most well known attraction being the heads - two great sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon, which connects the estuary with the sea. A lookout has been erected on the Eastern Head, commanding spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna.

Knysna Heads

Knysna Heads are the most striking geological features along the entire southern African coastline. They flank a deep but potentially treacherous channel through which the sea pours in to flood the wide and breathtakingly pretty lagoon at the mouth of the Knysna River. Knysna Lagoon is one of the few places along the coast and in the world that supports a oyster hatchery. Knysna oysters are reputedly among the tastiest in the world.

Knysna Forest

Knysna has many attractions in the surrounding area as well, one of the most spectacular being the Knysna Forest, which is still evident in many places. Knysna is the largest indigenous forest in South Africa.

It comprises of tall and ancient trees of local and exotic species, including Stinkwood, Yellowwood, Blackwood, Ironwood, White Alders and Cape Chestnut. Not forgetting the Ferns, Creepers and wild flowers that add colour to this endless green collage.

Animal life is limited to a few small Antelopes and a large variety of birds, such as the famous Knysna Loerie. Home to the once great herds of Knysna Elephants - there are 4 Forest Elephants living in the Gouna forest. Two youngsters were found over 2 years back and a fourth was sighted about 18 months ago. This suggests that there is a breeding pair, which is very exciting news for all conservationists.

Millwood Gold Mines

Another historical attraction are the Millwood Gold Mines. Alluvial gold was found here in 1885, causing a rush to the area. Jubilee Creek, the exact spot where gold was found, provides a tranquil and beautiful picnic area, with many enjoyable forest walks in the area.

Buffalo Bay

Buffalo Bay is the closest beach to knysna, one of the safest for swimming along the coast - enjoyed by many holiday makers every year. It is very rocky in places, making it a great angling spot, there is also a small slipway available for small boats.Find a Hotel in Knysna
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