Knoetzie Castle
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Overview
Enjoying a phenomenal, prestigious location in Knoetzie near Knysna with sublime panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Knoetzie Castle offers a fantastic holiday experience for up to twelve guests. It enjoys the perfect location to bridge the gap between generations or holiday with your favourite friends. This unique property offers you the chance to stay in an extremely characterful castle that was actually only built in the 1960s. It is the perfect abode for a spot to switch off, to spend time with your loved ones and to relax and reinvigorate. Its charm and character come in lavish abundance, married with a fantastic array of vintage furnishings. It comes with six enchanting bedrooms, six bathrooms and atmospheric living spaces. Expansive sea views will entice your gaze while you dine alfresco or relax with glasses of delicious chilled South African wine.
Knoetzie Castle hugs the cliffs above the Indian Ocean in the quiet hamlet of Knoetzie. Surrounding the castle are rivers, estuaries, a lush forest and a sensational beach. Sitting on the Garden Route, you will enjoy sensational scenic beauty. This idyllic location looks like something from a fairy story, with various castles sprinkled on the hillside. The castle is ten minutes east of Knysna, one of the top holiday destinations on the Garden Route. With its rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone. Blissful sandy beaches, beautiful forest trails including the magical Eco-Trail, a wide array of activities on land and water, wild elephants, an exquisitely beautiful lagoon, nature reserves and a fine dining scene offer the perfect balance. An intoxicating mix of whale watching and dolphin tours, golf, hiking and lazy beach days are all enjoyed in this mesmerising area.
The interior of the Knoetzie Castle is cosy, characterful and beautifully furnished. The living room offers exposed stone and brick walls, a beautiful ceiling and an open fireplace for when a chill descends or if you want to enjoy a crackling castle atmosphere. You will discover a comfy Chesterfield-styled sofa, rattan armchairs and a delightful built-in seating area. A smart television is provided so that you can cosy up with Netflix. Adjoining the living room is a charming circular dining area and a separate kitchen diner, a rustic wonder with excellent appliances, open shelving and a large dining table, perfect for joyful meals together.
The castle offers six beautiful bedrooms, three of which are in the main building of the castle and three which are on the right side of the castle. Sleeping in a turret on cloud-like beds is both romantic and charming. The north turret room offers flexible sleeping arrangements with twin beds that can be set up as a kingsize bed. It comes with exposed stone walls, stunning views and a smart ensuite bathroom with a large walk-in shower. It is accessed via steep wooden steps. The downstairs bedroom sits just off the main lounge with a lavish kingsize bed adorned with luxury linens. It too can be converted to twin beds. There is a separate shower room which can also be easily accessed from the living room. The south turret bedroom also offers flexible sleeping and enjoys an ensuite bathroom. It is accessed from the main living room. The dreamy honeymoon suite is reached via stone steps on the outside of the castle’s west wall. It boasts a fabulous, vintage, kingsize four-poster bed, an additional day bed and a large ensuite bathroom. The Hemmingway room offers a sumptuous queen-sized bed and an ensuite shower room. It is reached from the main garden area. The Tower bedroom sits at the top of wooden exterior steps, just off the main garden area, with its lavish queen size bed, ensuite shower room and wood-burning ceramic stove. Each room offers a wonderful, warm ambience and incredible character. You can soak your stresses away in one of the freestanding baths or take a power shower to remove the fine silvery-white sand after your beach days.
Outside, you can dine with a view, enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple in a beautiful sunny spot or hide in the shade with your holiday book. The beautifully landscaped gardens invite relaxation and rejuvenation. There is also a roof terrace where the already sublime Indian Ocean vistas get even better! From here, you may even see dolphins feeding and playing in the waves directly in front of Knoetzie Beach if you wake early. You will never miss a moment of coastal bliss at Knoetzie Castle. The directly adjacent beach with its flawless sand and crystalline, impossibly blue water beckons and the lush green forest calls!
What you should know…
- Most of the bedrooms are reached via steep staircases, so this property is not ideal for guests with mobility issues
- In addition, some of the bedrooms are reached via outside staircases, so you do need to consider where you will sleep little ones if you are looking for a family holiday
- The castle enjoys immense character and charm, coming with vintage furnishings and a rustic feel rather than being glamorous and sophisticated
Property Features
Main Building
Ground Floor
- Ample living room with various seating areas, fireplace and TV
- Well equipped kitchen with dining area
- Shower room
- Bedroom with double bed
Mezzanine
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite bathroom with bath
Annexe
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite bathroom with bath
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite bathroom with bath
- Bedroom with double bed and en-suite shower room
Exterior Grounds
- Large garden area
- Access to the beach
- Various sun loungers
- Outdoor dining
- Garden furniture
- Parking space
Additional Facilities
- Wi-Fi connection
- Rooftop terrace
- Satellite TV
- Safe box
Location
About the surrounding area of Knoetzie CastleKnoetzie Castle sits in the delightful hamlet of Knoetzie on the Garden Route in Southern Africa, the perfect location for a dream holiday. Knoetzie enjoys intoxicating scenery and a pristine, secluded beach that lies in a hidden bay proudly encircled by attractive castles. It is bordered by the lush forest of the Sinclair Nature Reserve. There is a large variety of flora and fauna and a quiet estuary. Knoetzie is peaceful, beautiful and tranquil. Many of the properties have been in the same family for generations.
Just minutes away is the town of Knysna. There are plenty of activities available in this wonderful town. A highlight is the Eco-Trail, a fabulous nature trail through the protected Sinclair Nature Reserve. Starting from the Knysna Lagoon, you can head out through the breaking waves to look for whales or dolphins with an experienced skipper. Embracing the exquisite beautiful lagoon and surrounded by forests, the town was formally the centre of the timber industry, supplying yellowwood and stinkwood for railway lines, shipping and house-building. It enjoys some unique shops specialising in woodwork and furniture, as well as plenty of artisan bakeries and local charcuteries. There are luxury spas for some indulgent me time and wonderful restaurants, including sea food restaurants, family-run eateries, five-star restaurants and outdoor food stalls. You will experience live music, local craft beers and craft gin. With a rich history and proud cultural heritage, you will enjoy a lively atmosphere and a very warm welcome. You should not miss a boat trip on the lagoon, the Knysna Head viewpoints for astonishing panoramic vistas, a visit to Featherbed Nature Reserve on the Western Heads, alfresco dining at one of the many lagoonside restaurants and hiking or cycling in the Knysna forest.
Golfers are in for a treat at the nearby Pezula Championship Golf Course or the other championship golf courses within forty-five minutes. Pezula Golf Course is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and wonderful gardens. It covers 254 hectares on the Knysna clifftops with stunning views of the Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean. The par 72 course is ideal for players of all levels and comes with luxury golf carts and flyover demos of each hole.
The Knysna Forest is a dreamy place sprinkled with gentle streams, towering trees and rare birds, a haven for birdwatchers. You can hike along one of the well-maintained trails, take a guided tour or take a body-powdered scooter. Guests enjoy family picnics under the majestic canopy and look out for birdlife and wildlife. You might even meet one of the famous forest elephants.
Knysna is at the centre of the Garden Route National Park Lakes Section, an area crisscrossed by rivers, lakes and estuaries. You can discover these amazing waterways by boat or canoe, enjoying the birdlife. Anglers can fish for dinner. The Knysna Lagoon is actually an estuary and natural home of the Knysna seahorse and where the famous Knysna oysters were first cultivated in the 1940s. Boat trips include water skiing, trips up the Knysna River and romantic sunset cruises. You might meet migrating whales, playful dolphins and much more marine life.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
George Airport
(81 km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Plettenber Bay Airport
(33 km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Knysna
(11 km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
George
(74 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Bosun's Arms
(9 km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
The Knysna Gin Distillery & Brewery
(9 km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
So Ca
(9 km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Noetzie Beach
(150 m) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Kysna Golf Club
(12 km) |
||
| Sightseeing |
SANP Garden of Eden
(16 km) |
||
Region
The idyllic town of Knysna - known as the jewel in the crown of the Garden Route - is situated in the Western Cape Province, approximately 500 kilometres east of Cape Town. Famed for its natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and a tranquil lagoon, Knysna has become a sought-after destination for both local and international travellers.
Knysna sits between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, creating a landscape that seamlessly combines dramatic mountains, lush forests, and coastal scenery. One of the town’s most iconic landmarks are the two dramatic sandstone cliffs, the Knysna Heads, that guard the entrance to the beautiful Knysna Lagoon. The lagoon itself is a haven for water enthusiasts, its pristine waters offering a tranquil setting for sailing, fishing, water-skiing and kayaking. The Knysna Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It's a perfect place to shop for local crafts, and enjoy a meal with a view overlooking sapphire waters of the lagoon.
The vibrant food scene, featuring a mix of international and local cuisine, invites food enthusiasts to delight in diverse dishes and flavours. Knysna is renowned for its seafood due to its coastal location, and local restaurants offer a variety of fresh catches. The annual Knysna Oyster Festival celebrates the delicious oysters that the region is famed for.
The Knysna Forest is part of the larger Garden Route National Park and is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal species, providing a wonderful playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore this verdant paradise through various hiking trails, immersing themselves in over 50 varieties of indigenous trees and vibrant birdlife. You’ll find hiking trails that cater to various fitness levels, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. The Elephant Walk and Garden of Eden are particularly popular trails, leading through ancient forests and showcasing the region's rich biodiversity.
The Featherbed Nature Reserve is located on the Western Headland of the Knysna River Estuary. Accessible by ferry, this pristine reserve is a slice of paradise that only controls visitor numbers to protect the area's unique flora and fauna. The panoramic views from the top are a reward for those who make the journey.
Spa resorts and wellness centres offer rejuvenating experiences, allowing visitors to unwind amidst the natural beauty of the region. For adrenaline seekers, Knysna offers opportunities for paragliding, zip-lining, and mountain biking, providing an exhilarating way to experience the diverse landscapes. In essence, Knysna is a versatile destination that combines natural beauty, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a blend of both, Knysna has something special to offer.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesKnoetzie Castle is the perfect place to bring the generations together or holiday with friends and children. You do need to consider where everyone sleeps as there are some steep and some external staircases. The castle is a joy, and the landscaped gardens lead down to a beautiful beach.
Children love waking early to the dawn chorus of birds and heading down to the blissful sandy beach for a stroll. They might find otter spoor on the beach and baby fish darting about in the estuary. The wildlife on the beach, lagoon and the nature reserve is amazing. Kids love lazy beach days on the fine sands, making sandcastles, swimming or looking out for the castles on the hill. It is not recommended to swim where there is not a lifeguard on duty though.
The Knoetzie River is great for fishing and wildlife spotting too. There might be fish eagles soaring above, kingfishers on the water’s edge or cheeky chattering monkeys swinging through the branches of the trees. The river is great for paddling and canoeing. The river is surrounded by lush forest where you might find bushpig, small antelope, honey badgers, otters and caracal.
Not far away is the popular resort of Plettenberg Bay, or ‘Plett’ as it is commonly known. There are mountains, white sand and crystal clear, intoxicating blue water, which makes it one of the country’s top local tourist spots. It offers some of the best coast and indigenous forests in South Africa. The Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is wondrous. Kids love experiencing the magic of the African bush in two-hour game drives on the two-hundred-hectare reserve at the foothills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains. The game rangers will enthral little ones with fascinating facts about the wildlife. The reserve is home to four of Africa’s famous Big 5. There are elephants, buffaloes, rhinos and leopards, as well as giraffes, zebra, hippos and crocodiles. There is abundant birdlife too.
Kids Activities Close-by
- Beach Nearby
- Walk to Beach
- <1hr to Airport
Onsite Facilities
- Beachfront
Extras
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to travel services we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
| Security deposit | Credit card details are required 2 weeks prior to departure for pre-authorisation. |
| Arrival time | 4 pm |
| Departure time | 10 am |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | Credit card details are required 2 weeks prior to departure for pre-authorisation. |
| Arrival time | 4 pm |
| Departure time | 10 am |
| Energy costs included? | Yes, included in the rental price. |
| Heating costs included? | Not available on this property. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, included in the rental price. |
| Pool towels included? | No. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or garbage disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Internet access? | Wi-Fi internet access included. |
| Minimum stay | 3 - 5 nights, depending on season. All other durations on request. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Smoking & Vaping are not permitted. |
| Pool heating charge? | Not available on this property. |
| Tax | Tourist tax not applicable. |
| Insurance | Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, loss of personal belongings, personal liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Daily cleaning is included in the rental price. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 12 people:
| Rental period | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 4th 2024 - May 30th 2024 | £5,225 | £6,967 | £8,708 | £12,190 |
| May 30th 2024 - Sep 29th 2024 | - | - | £11,036 | £15,450 |
| Sep 29th 2024 - Nov 29th 2024 | £5,673 | £7,564 | £9,455 | £13,235 |
| Nov 29th 2024 - Dec 19th 2024 | - | - | £10,498 | £14,697 |
| Dec 19th 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | - | - | £11,036 | £15,450 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Jan 29th 2025 | - | - | £10,498 | £14,697 |
| Jan 29th 2025 - Feb 26th 2025 | £5,673 | £7,564 | £9,455 | £13,235 |
| Feb 26th 2025 - Apr 14th 2025 | - | - | £10,498 | £14,697 |
| Apr 14th 2025 - May 29th 2025 | £5,225 | £6,967 | £8,708 | £12,190 |
| May 29th 2025 - Sep 28th 2025 | - | - | £11,036 | £15,450 |
| Sep 28th 2025 - Nov 5th 2025 | £5,673 | £7,564 | £9,455 | £13,235 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
