Knysna

The greater Knysna area comprises Knysna, Brenton on Sea, Buffalo Bay, Noetzie, Rheenendal and Sedgefield, Knysna itself falling within a National Park. 

Settled neatly between the majestic Outeniqua Mountains and the warm Indian Ocean, Knysna is ranked among the most sought after coastal towns in South Africa.  Having twice won the “South Africa’s Favourite Town” award, it is not difficult to understand why the town is a firm favourite with foreign and domestic visitors alike.

Lying on the banks of an 18km² estuary, which is locally referred to as the Knysna Lagoon, the Knysna River meets the tides of the ocean. One might easily come across the rare and delicate pansy shell, or have the unique opportunity of observing the famed Knysna Seahorse.  The estuary is permanently open to the sea, and this dynamic environment accounts for a remarkable variety of estuarine species, the highest recorded in any South African estuary. The indigenous temperate rain forests of the area are one of South Africa’s greatest natural landmarks, home to the dwarf chameleon and the only forest elephant in South Africa.   Giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees often draped with magical “Old Man’s Beard” lichen, form an imposing sight, with other well known species of tree such as Stinkwood, Blackwood, White Alder, Ironwood and Hard Pear reaching for their place in the sun.  This canopy of trees is also home to some of the rarest species of birds, and one might be lucky enough to spot the shy Narina Trogon, or the flamboyant Knysna Loerie, which is also not an uncommon sight in the gardens of the town. The coastline is punctuated by “The Heads”, two imposing sandstone cliffs, allowing the ebb and flow of the tides to constantly refresh the waters of the lagoon.  Knysna is indeed a nature lover’s garden.

Devoid of any of the big city bustle, Knysna is nonetheless fully equipped with all the modern conveniences associated with comfortable and safe living.  Regarded as one of South Africa’s safest and most crime free areas, its modern private hospital, a newly built shopping mall, and adequate educational facilities, make for an ideal place to settle.  George, Knysna’s “bigger town” neighbour, is only a distance of 60 kilometers away, and offers all other services and shops that one may require.  A drive to George which takes one through the famous Wilderness area, along newly modernized roadways, and beside the railway track of the famous Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, is indeed pleasurable in its own right.  

Sedgefield lies between Knysna and George, a seaside town in the heart of the Lakes District.  With beaches that rival those of the Rivera’s, the outdoor enthusiast is spoilt for choice.  Wind surfing, sailing, bass fishing, or paragliding, a relaxed lifestyle is unavoidable. An added attraction is the weekly farmers market, where one might find homemade cheeses or homemade soaps, as well as the works of resident artists, many of whom have settled along the Garden Route.  Real estate in the area also caters for most types of lifestyle, ranging from palatial homes with sea vistas to more modest seaside cottages.  Again ones range of choice is extensive. 

Rheenendal falls between Knysna and Sedgefield, and can be considered to be the rural option for those seeking to settle on country estates or farmlands.  The climate of the area makes it ideal for Macadamia nut farming, or alternatively citrus farming.  Close enough to Knysna, the community of Rheenendal has easy access to the amenities of the town. 

The Garden Route is home to the elephant, the seahorse, the artist, the birds and the forests.  You could call it home too.

Images from this site may not be reproduced without permission.
Copyright Terry Cohen and Hylton Herd.