2 Best Hotels in Knysna, The Garden Route and the Little Karoo

On a private 450-acre nature reserve, this stunning lodge, set in the tree canopy of the indigenous Knysna forest, offers guests the opportunity to sleep in luxury tree houses built from sustainable woods. The bathrooms are a celebration in themselves, with the baths under an atrium of glass jutting out into the tree canopy. The secluded location and clever design ensure complete privacy for each suite, and the living areas are linked by elevated wooden walkways to protect the forest floor below. The lodge is famed for its restaurant, the Forest Boma, which offers contemporary, classical six-course meals with dishes such as springbok carpaccio; pawpaw, carrot, and ginger sorbet; and crispy prawns with spiced coconut sauce. Service is outstanding. Nonguests can book a table for dinner.

Immerse yourself in elegance at this gleaming-white country house sitting right on the edge of Knysna Lagoon. Wander around in a spacious suite with uninterrupted views of the water, roam around the landscaped formal gardens with tranquil koi ponds, or stroll down to the private pier with free use of canoes and fishing equipment. Indoors the setting is light and bright, with some lovely antiques.