Our Story

Knysna Hollow Country Estate opened it’s doors on 1 July 1998, the second hotel after Hippo Hollow to become a part of the Seasons in Africa Group. Knysna Hollow is owned by Jack Brotherton, who saw a need for quality, affordable accommodation for tourists along the Garden Route.

Jack offered General Managers, Clive & Liesel Battell, a partnership to relocate to Knysna from Hazyview to operate the hotel. Starting with only 20 rooms, Knysna Hollow has grown over the past 15 years to 79 rooms, with an enlarged Manor House accommodating two restaurants, a lively pub and the reception area. The gardens are immaculate and create a wonderful backdrop to the Chalets and Rooms which are situated amongst indigenous plants and trees with three sparkling swimming pools as focal points.

Our biggest asset at Knysna Hollow has to be our wonderful staff, some of whom have been part of the Team since we began. The entire Team constantly strives to offer genuine hospitality to our guests and work together with Clive and Liesel daily to make each guest’s stay a memorable one.

An oasis of tranquility in the heart of the Garden Route

Just 2km outside the quaint town of Knysna and a short walk from the beautiful Knysna Lagoon…

Set amongst timeless Oak and Pecan Nut trees on a 2 hectare secluded country estate near the Knysna Lagoon, Knysna Hollow is only 45 minutes from George and 2.5 hours from Port Elizabeth. Knysna is well known for its rich green forests and endless lakes. For the nature lover, Knysna is home to a myriad of fauna and flora, the elusive Loerie and the fabled Knysna Elephants. The central location of Knysna Hollow makes it the perfect base from which to explore the myriad of attractions and activities on the Garden Route.

Safety

Knysna, situated in Western Cape is a small town with no violent crime. Knysna Hollow is just 2km from town, in a country setting, there is no urban decay and little crime. The area is considered safe to walk and cycle around.

Although the area is safe, we advise that you do take basic common sense precautions, for example not walking alone in deserted areas at night and being circumspect about how much photographic equipment or flashy jewellery you carry. Keep valuables locked in the safe. Lock your room door at night or when going out. Reception will be able to assist with any safety queries. If you are in doubt as to the safety of a particular area or attraction, contact the National Tourism Information and Safety line on +27 (0) 83-123-2345. The number may also be used for practical assistance in replacing lost documents or reporting incidents.

Knysna Hollow offers guests safe and secure off-street parking on the Estate, and a security guard patrols the estate every evening.

Stylish Accommodation set in a tranquil country estate

Set within lush gardens on a 2 hectare estate, the tastefully decorated accommodation consists of 15 Garden Chalets,64 Garden Rooms, and 8 Superior Eco Estate Rooms.

Garden Rooms

The 64 twin-bed Garden Rooms are all well equipped with ceiling fans, tea and coffee facilities, satellite television and hairdryers, as well as covered patios. All rooms are decorated in a fresh, natural style and offer clean and crisp comfort with all modern amenities.

Garden Rooms

• 64 twin-bed garden rooms.
• Equipped with ceiling fans, tea & coffee facilities, satellite television, hairdryers and a covered patio.
• 10 garden rooms have single walk-in showers.
• 54 garden rooms have double walk-in showers.
• 6 garden rooms are inter-leading, converting to 3 family rooms.
• 18 units can accommodate an extra bed for a child sharing or a third adult.

Family Rooms

• Four of the rooms come with sleeper couches to accommodate up to two children (under 12) sharing with parents.

Garden & Family Chalets

The 15 Garden Chalets offer relaxed open-plan living areas leading onto private bedrooms each with their own patio. Wood-burning fireplaces add atmosphere and warmth in the cooler months – perfect for romantic evenings. The Garden Chalets are decorated with hand-crafted furniture and are equipped with ceiling fans, tea and coffee facilities, mini-bar fridges, telephones, flat-screen satellite televisions, heated towel rails and Charlotte Rhys guest amenities.

Garden and Family Chalets

• 15 garden chalets 7 with double beds 8 with twin beds.
• All chalets include the following: Flat-Screen Satellite TV’s, safes, telephone, wood-burning fireplaces, heated towel rails, ceiling fans, hairdryers, bar fridges, tea & coffee facilities and Charlotte Rhys guest amenities.
• Garden chalets feature open-plan living and bedroom areas with private patios.
• 8 chalets have separate bath and shower, 7 chalets have double walk-in showers.
• 5 out of the 15 are Family Chalets with fold-out sleeper couches (can also accommodate an extra bed).
• Chalets without sleeper couches can accommodate one extra bed for child / 3rd adult.

Superior Eco Estate Rooms

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Estate, the 8 Superior Eco Estate rooms overlook a perennial dam with prolific birdlife. The spacious rooms are decorated in a fresh Scandinavian-style which combines natural wooden finishes with a refined palette of blues and greys creating a calm and inviting space.

Superior Eco Estate Rooms

• Open-plan Lounge Area.
• Walk-in Showers.
• Separate Toilets.
• Double Basins.
• Super-king Size Beds.
• Hand-made Timber Furniture.
• Outdoor Viewing Deck.
• Air-conditioning.
• Satellite Television.
• Nespresso™ Coffee Stations.
• Cosy Gowns & Slippers.
• Charlotte Rhys Amenities.
• In-room Digital safes.
• Hair-dryers.

The Knysna Hollow Restaurant

The Knysna Hollow Restaurant is situated in the Manor House and serves seasonal fresh food in relaxed ambient surroundings. The scintillating, yet refined menu reflects flavours and influences from around the globe, with a selection of dishes that will stimulate the senses. Choose between ocean-fresh seafood such as Tiger Prawns and Linefish, to South African specialities such as Karoo Lamb and venison dishes or a decadent, locally inspired dessert.

Garden-fresh ingredients, rich flavours and genuine hospitality make for an unforgettable dining experience in a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. We take pride in offering an extensive wine list that features some excellent Cape wines as well as a broad selection of after dinner drinks, including ports, liqueurs and brandies.

Pecan Tree Grill Room

With contemporary design and use of natural materials, The Pecan Tree Grill Room, is perfectly suited to serve contemporary Cape cuisine, in an alternate venue to our a la carte restaurant. The Pecan Tree Grill Room’s menu includes both classic Malay-inspired dishes such as spicy Malay lamb curry as well as local specialities like fresh Knysna Oysters.

Warm and friendly service accompanies our menu and the hand-picked wine list is sure to contain the perfect Cape wine to complement meals.

The Rutland Arms Pub

The laid-back Rutland Arms Pub is a warm and friendly place to enjoying a beverage and socialise with friends, family and other guests. Sport is screened on satellite televisions, while ice-cold local Mitchell’s draught and warm, friendly service make this a special gathering place to interact and meet people.

Lunch is served daily in the Rutland Arms Pub and can also be enjoyed out on the deck.

Activities in the area are endless, from ferry trips across the lagoon, to walking trails through the ancient forests – or simply relaxing at one of the three sparkling swimming pools. Visit the nearby picturesque, historical town of Knysna, with its antique shops, African arts & crafts, coffee shops and restaurants, which has charm and variety aplenty. Knysna offers activities ranging from adventure & adrenaline to refined relaxation.

Our friendly staff at Knysna Hollow will be happy to assist with further information, advice and booking of any activities you are interested in.

• SMOOTH SAILING-take a sunset cruise on the Knysna Lagoon aboard a luxury yacht and sip cocktails as you sail through the Heads.
• TOWNSHIP TOURS-experience the heart of the local community on full or half day excursions.
• GET WET-kite surfing, kayaking, surfing, water-skiing – whether in the ocean or on the lagoon, a wide range of aquatic sports can be arranged.
• GET ON YOUR BIKE-with an array of adventurous forest trail rides in the immediate area, either on your own wheels or on a rental, Knysna is THE place to Mountain Bike.
• BREWERY TOURS-Knysna is home to the local brew, Mitchell’s Draught – take a brewery tour and try a beer (or two!).
• HIKE TILL YOU DROP-with distances to suit hikers from all ‘walks’ of life, from the renowned Tsitsikamma Trail to the Millwood Gold Fields, there is a stunning trail for everyone.
• BEACH BUM-hit the beach at your choice of a number of unspoiled coastal spots.
• MARKET MADNESS-6 Alfresco award-winning markets to choose from!
  The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be a visit to the Wild Oats Community Farmers Market, in Sedgefield, on a Saturday morning. There is certainly a taste for every tempered palate, with a noticeably health-conscious emphasis on the wares. There is an air of “sophisticated country” – young at heart and vibrant with a solid connection to the communities in the area which supply all the necessary tasty treats for one’s weekly shopping needs.
• SHOP-the Knysna Waterfront, Knysna Mall, Main Street and other specialty stores offer a wide range of interesting places for you to spend, spend, spend!
• FEATHERBED NATURE RESERVE-a must for all visitors to Knysna – take a lagoon ferry cruise to a nature trail on the Featherbed Nature Reserve, followed by lunch under the ancient Milkwood Trees.
• ADRENALINE JUNKIES-tree-top canopy tours in Indigenous Forests, the world’s highest Bungee Jump at Bloukrans (216 metres!), quad-biking & shark-cage diving – pick your poison…
• ANIMAL INTERACTIONS-a choice of 2 amazing Elephant Parks, Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, Eagle Encounters, Wolf Sanctuary, Butterfly World & Birds of Eden.
• KAROO AMBLING-just over an hour away, visit the Cango Caves, Oudtshoorn’s Ostriches and the famous wineries of Calitzdorp.
• A ROUND OR TWO OF GOLF-If you enjoy golf, you’ll be spoiled for choice! The Garden Route boasts many of the most highly-rated courses in South Africa. There are no fewer than 10 visitor-friendly clubs located between Mossel Bay and Plettenburg Bay alone – all of them offering a different challenge to players of all standards.

All this and so much more… Knysna will not disappoint!

“A group of 7 of us, 3 different generations spent 3 nights at Kynsna at the end of December and we all thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The accommodation is very attractive with rondavels spread round swimming pool areas. The breakfasts were hugely enjoyed, and the staff, without exception are very friendly and professional and the location is quiet and excellent for exploring the immediate area.”-Sara G

“Recently we stayed at Knysna Hollow in the new superior eco rooms and I was impressed. They are very spacious, private and all the finishes are luxury.”-Gavin021

“This was the second Hollow Country Estate Hotel we stayed in on our Riviera tour of South Africa. We were very impressed by the hotels in this chain. A really lovely place. Our room had a wonderful vaulted ceiling and had large comfortable beds and a lovely bathroom, The room was set in extensive beautiful gardens complete with swimming pool.  We were especially taken with the staff who always had an infectious smile and were very friendly and courteous.
The food and wine was excellent and the hotel was very convenient for the Knysna Waterfront and Feathebed Nature Reserve.”-Robert D

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