St James of Knysna  

On the serene shores of the Knysna Lagoon, this 5-star country house sits a short 2.5–3 km hop from Knysna Waterfront. Expect lagoon views toward the Knysna Heads, and easy access to Featherbed Private Nature Reserve, Knysna Elephant Park and nearby championship golf courses. Owner-run and family-friendly, it’s a secluded base for exploring the Garden Route.

Owner-run and quietly exclusive, the manor blends modern décor with colonial country-house charm. Fifteen individually decorated, air-conditioned rooms and suites offer minibars/fridges and private bathrooms with separate tubs and showers, with views over the lagoon or the property’s lush 3‑acre gardens. Guests can stroll the grounds, launch canoes from the lawn or step onto the private jetty for a complimentary 90‑minute pontoon cruise.

Dip into two outdoor pools (an indoor pool is also listed among facilities), hit the fitness center, or reset at the spa with sauna and massage rooms. Library, picnic areas and children’s playrooms add variety. Concierge and tour desk arrange excursions; free self-parking is available and an airport shuttle runs for a surcharge. Wake up to lagoon breezes and easy water access for paddling.

Conference hall and meeting facilities accommodate business gatherings. Complimentary wireless internet is available property-wide. Dry cleaning, laundry services and luggage storage are provided.

On-site restaurant and bar/lounge serve local and international dishes, with 24‑hour room service available. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily from 8–10 AM.