Historical Background

Knysna's rich and colorful history spans the days of sailing ships, timber extraction and even a brief period of gold discovery.

The vast, indigenous forests just outside Knysna became an invaluable source of timber for buildings, ships and wagons from the mid- 1700's onwards, and provided the historical background around which Knysna was built. Today, the forests are protected and the lagoon, which provides a safe, sheltered harbour, has become the focal point of activity for both locals and visitors.

Thesen Island

Arnt Leonard Thesen and his family left Stanger in Norway in 1868 in search of a new home. In 1870, they settled in Knysna and soon became an integral part of the burgeoning village, setting up the first trading store and counting house. They also dealt in timber and, in 1904, Charles Wilhelm Thesen bought Paarden Island which had been part of the Melkhoutkraal Estate of George Rex - the founder of Knysna. The Thesens began processing timber on the island in 1922 and the island soon became known as Thesen Island.

Climate

Knysna has a gentle climate with an average annual rainfall of 920mm, spread throughout the year, with 75% falling at night. Summer daytime temperatures average 26 degrees. Winter temperatures average 21 degrees during the day, and seldom fall below 6 degrees at night.

Schools

There are good Government Primary and Senior Schools in Knysna and a Private School. There is also a Montessori School as well as several nursery schools, play schools and after school care centres.

Medical Services

Knysna is well served by 23 doctors and 10 specialists. There are 7 dentists and several optometrists. The new Knysna Private Hospital has 47 beds and the most up-to-date facilities available. There is also a Provincial Hospital and in George, 60 km away, are two private clinics and a Provincial Hospital.

Knysna's Churches

Knysna has 15 churches covering most religious denominations.

Shopping

Knysna has four shopping centres - three modern and newly built - which provide for all a shopper needs. There are supermarkets, boutiques, restaurants, coffee bars, pharmacies and a host of specialised shops. One center is geared more towards the local arts and crafts and is housed in an up-graded historical building that was once a timber sawmill.

Ile de Pain - The first cafe and bakery in Thesen Harbour Town. Fresh bread baked daily.

Restaurants

The diner has a wonderful choice of restaurants, dining in elegant surroundings by candlelight or looking out over the Knysna Lagoon. There are also intimate bistros or the opportunity to eat"al fresco", a popular activity due to Knysna's gentle climate and warm evenings. A host of coffee bars and pubs offer good wholesome"pub-grub"or South African fare as well as our locally brewed beer.

Galleries / Arts & Crafts

As a result of a relaxed lifestyle, Knysna has, over the years, attracted a wide variety of artists, creating an artists' paradise. There are numerous galleries where one can enjoy the local arts and crafts and appreciate the talent and work that is produced here. The highly successful Nederburg Arts Festival - a collection of visual and performing arts - has been incorporated into this Gastronomica event every September.

Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe

One of the last single gauge operational steam trains in the world travels between Knysna and George. Relive travel of the years past and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Garden Route.

Oysters

Oysters are cultivated in the Knysna Lagoon and served in all the local restaurants. Knysna Oyster Company is situated on Thesen Islands and offers a daily oyster bar.

Birdlife

More than 280 species of birds are listed in and around Knysna and many water birds are found in the areas around Thesen Islands. Click here for pictures of the Lagoon Birdlife.

Forest Walks

The nearby forests provide ample opportunity for leisurely walks or picnics, short hikes or, for the serious hiker, more strenuous day walks; plus a number of biking trails for all levels of cyclists.

Air and Road Links

George Airport is 60 minutes away and is served by SAA, SA Airlink and Nationwide airlines offering regular flights to all the main centres. The major car hire companies have offices at the George Airport and there are specialised companies in Knysna that provide airport transfers.

The upgraded road between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth is good, making road travel along the scenic Garden Route a pleasure.