Turbine Hotel and Spa

On Thesen Island in Knysna, on South Africa’s Garden Route. A 5-star boutique hotel housed in a converted power station and surrounded by water on three sides. Steps from Thesen Island, the Knysna Lagoon and the Knysna Waterfront — a family-friendly base for lagoon cruises and nature outings.

This bold industrial-to-luxury conversion delivers serious wow. Twenty-six individually themed rooms and suites mix modern comforts with crafted style. Many rooms include kitchenettes, espresso makers, in-room safes and 32-inch LCDs for easy living after a day exploring.

A full-service spa and the Turbine Water Club set the tone for relaxation and adventure. Enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, steam room, sauna, massages, a fitness center, library and bicycles to rent. The hotel arranges lagoon cruises, whale watching, forest hikes and mountain biking. Concierge service, parking and babysitting (surcharge) keep stays effortless.

A 24-hour business center, conference center and meeting room handle events and meetings. Complimentary Wi‑Fi and lobby newspapers are provided. Roundtrip airport shuttle and laundry/dry-cleaning services are available on request (surcharge).

On-site options include the Island Café, a Gastro Pub and The Tapas Bar, plus two coffee shops and a poolside bar. Room service runs during limited hours. Think tapas and pub-style fare, strong coffee and casual island dining steps from your door.