There is nothing worse than trying a new restaurant and ending up being disappointed, so I thought I would give you some of our favourite Knysna eateries, from a local’s perspective!
Your Complete Guide to the 2014 Knysna Oyster Festival
.... oysters, bubbly, friends, fun, mud, sweat, seafood, bicycles, lagoon, forest, Tabasco, laughter, walking, fires, music, food, crowds, markets, beach, exercise, water, relaxing, chatter, crafts, golf, extreme, restaurants, boats, taste, braai, party...
Those are just some of the things you will experience if you head to Knysna from 4 - 13 July for the Knysna Oyster Festival! Here are some more activities you could be part of!
4th Jul - 13th Jul - DAILY
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Knysna Living Local Pop-up Shop
This is a showcase for local arts & crafts in the Knysna & Garden Route area.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
Inflatable fun & Knockout Games
From Friday 4th July a whole variety of Inflatables will be set up on the field for all to enjoy! Young and old.
From the Super giant slide, paddle cars for the young adults, a Ghost house for the thrill seekers, to a Rocket for those who want to ‘reach for the sky’s”, Target shooting tunnel (paintball) with lots of prizes-for the “steady sharp shooters”, Zorb Balls and for the smaller generation – some ponds with paddle boats and water rollers and other jumping castles.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
Knysna Market
This is a local & organic market started recently to create a platform for local arts, crafts & organic products. The Knysna Market has been identified to host the 2014 PnP Knysna Oyster Festival Stalls to increase foot flow and extend the Oyster Festival over the town.
Knysna Market, Knysna
Tandia Oyster Trip
Patrons visiting The Waterfront can view a Oyster fishing display and are encouraged to guess how many oyster shells are in the display. The three closest entrants will receive either Crystal Swarovski Oyster Shells or Crystal Swarovski Sea Horses from Tandia. The Boat is on view near the harbour and entry forms can be collected from Tandia Jewellers both at The Waterfront. Display and Competition open daily from 9am – 5pm from the 4th July to the 12th July.
Knysna Waterfront, Knysna
Waterfront Challenge
This is some great golfing action with a golfer trying to chip balls on to a floating green.
Knysna Waterfront, Knysna
Oyster Festival Funfair
This is a fun filled funfair for any age with rides & small flea market.
George Craft Market, Knysna
The Yard - Skate, BMX & Scooter Park
R25 entrance for a full day of entertainment,
drop and go as there is adult supervision, indoor
as well as outdoor. Scooters and skateboards for hire.
Tuck-shop with hot food and cold drinks.
Shop that stocks shoes, t- shirts, hoodies
a range skate boards and all the spares to go.
The Yard, Knysna
4th Jul
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Momentum Knysna Pump Track
This exciting new activity will be staged during the weekend of the Knysna Cycle Race.
The pumptrack will be FREE and available for riders of any age and skill level over the weekend, except during the Momentum Knysna Pumptrack competition times (competition time sessions indicated to you in previous mail). A pump track is a loop of bumps and jumps made of progressive kind of structure, where cyclists propel themselves through by shifting their body weight, or “pumping,” instead of pedalling. Kids as young as four can ride, but parents and adults can join in too.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
4th Jul
1:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Momentum Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour - Registration
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
4th Jul
6:00 pm
Live - FIFA World Cup
Quarter Final 1 (5 & 6)
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
4th Jul
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
4th Jul
6:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Seafood Extravaganza
The Freshest, most delectable seafood extravaganza. R220 p/p
Simola Hotel & Spa, Knysna
4th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
4th Jul
8:30 pm
Live Entertainment
Mo’s on Rex, Knysna
5th Jul
7:30 am
Momentum Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour - Mountain Bike Race
This is the 27th year of the event and the tour is the biggest and most popular race in South Africa. The Mountain Bike Section of the race has been one of the biggest in Southern Africa since 1997 and includes outstanding cycling routes through the beautiful KNYSNA FOREST.
Mountain Bike Events - Knysna is world famous for the quality of its mountain biking routes. Irrespective of which route you choose to match your fitness – you will be exposed to beautiful farmland, fauna and flora while you are able to test your abilities to the maximum. The organizers have listened to the riders and age limits have been adjusted in order to ensure that fun riders have the maximum amount of FUN. Routes include access to privately owned sections of property that are usually closed to the public.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
5th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
5th Jul
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
5th Jul
6:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Curries of the World
Flirt with flavours from around the globe. Enjoy more than 26 superbly crafted dishes for R200 p/p
Simola Hotel & Spa, Knysna
5th Jul
7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Cocktail Evening with Aperol Spritz
Promotional cocktail event with Live Entertainment. R285 p/p
Turbine Hotel & Spa, Knysna South Africa
5th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
6th Jul
7:00 am
Momentum Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour - Road Race
2014 will see the introduction of a new 100km route for our road race. This exciting route is 105km with 1577m of climbing. It has been designed for the enthusiastic and competitive roadies and will keep you working right up until the finish line.
100km Route Summary: Knysna – Sedgefield – Karatara – Barrington and back to Knysna
50km Route Summary: Knysna – Sedgefield and back to Knysna
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
6th Jul
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Spur Steak Ranches Rotary Knysna Children Cycle Tour
The Spur Rotary Knysna Children’s Tour (an official event of the Momentum Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour) will take place on SUNDAY 6 JULY 2014 (first start at 10h00) at the beautiful race venue – Steenbok Park on Leisure Island. The routes are scenic and safe for children.Steenbok Park, Knysna Western Cape
6th Jul
9:00 am
Knysna Dragons Lagoonmile Swim
Join the Knysna Dragons Lagoon Mile Swim: a one-mile swim in open-water during still time of the tide by all competitors. The start and finish will be at the Cruise Café and the route will follow to the Waterfront entrance, the circle inside the waterway of the residential area, back out by the harbour entrance and back to the Cruise Café. The distance is one nautical mile (or 1.8km for land-lubbers) and open to all categories. NSRI will supervise safety and Knysna Canoe club the marshalling.Cruise Café, Knysna
6th Jul
11:00 am
Waterfront Lagoon Challenge
The canoe race is a lapped race incorporating the Knysna Heads, Thesen Island and the Waterfront and also features a Stand Up Paddle race.
Knysna Waterfront, Knysna
6th Jul
12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
6th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
6th Jul
3:00 pm
BIKENITE Cycle Race
Bring on the NITE! Garden Route Trail Park in association with a fistful of adrenaline, bring you BIKENITE! From Dusk till Dark for an altogether different riding experience. Race through 20 – 25 km of manicured single tracks – rollers, berms, spiral berms and fast flowing lines through indigenous forests. Brings lights, strong lights, and a sense of adventure to partake in this unique event happening on 6th July 2014. 20km dusk ride starts at 3:30pm, followed by the 25km Nite time rush of hurtling through the already exciting trails, in the dark. At least no-one will see you grinning like a fool as you wind your way around the trails:) Then, if for whatever reason that wasn’t exciting enough, take part in the Parks Pumptrack Elimination Event under spotlights. Every rider will do a timed lap to get a seeding and the 20 fastest times will go through to the Eliminator Round.
Garden Route Trail Park, Dormehl Farms, Barrington, Knysna
6th Jul
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Jane Simon Dessert, Port & Sherry Pairing
The pairing of Port’s & Sherry’s to mouth watering desserts. R125 p/p
Turbine Hotel & Spa, Knysna South Africa
6th Jul
5:30 pm
Exclusive Glenfiddich Whisky & Live Jazz Cruise
The whisky tasting will be for the first 45 minutes, after which the guests can move around the vessel, listening to jazz music and enjoy a light dinner.
The whiskies for tasting will be: Glenfiddich 14yr rich oak (limited edition), Glenfiddich 15yr, Glenfiddich 19 yr age of discovery (limited edition). Light dinner menu served on board the Paddle Cruiser: Soup - Butternut, Citrus & thyme, infused Soup – (served in a cup), Mains – serving style ( small bowled foods) - Thai Green Curry Chicken with Basmati Rice & finely grated coconut, Spinach & sundried tomato Farfelle Pasta served with grated parmesan, Cape Malay Boland Lamb potjie served with fluffy rice, Dessert - Mini homemade Milk tarts. The cost for this cruise and full experience will be R250pp. Booking essential.
Paddlecruiser, Featherbed Ferry Terminus, Knysna
6th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
7th Jul
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
FNB Knysna Forest Family Hike
The legendary Harkerville trails are considered mountain bike and trail runner utopia. Here’s your chance to absorb the magic of these famous forests with friends and family. You can loosen up your off-day legs with a brisk hike over a longer distance or amble the shorter walks at fairy listening pace. Who knows, you may just spot a Knysna Loerie, or better, an elephant. Our aim is to promote the ecological importance of the forests whilst embracing quality family or partner time, health and wellness for all ages in an eco-friendly way. Enjoy coffee and rusks, Ceres fruit juices, Nature’s Source cereals before you set off into the silence of the rain protected forests. …Let’s Play
1) Blue Duiker Trail- (2,75kmTime 1 to 1, 5 hrs) –The Blue Duiker is the smallest of the forest antelope and is rarely seen but its tiny footprints may be seen at stream crossings or on the footpaths. It was hunted by the woodcutters and was considered a real delicacy by them Ideal for younger families. This stroll follows a forest path past ancient saw pits, and fallen Yellow Wood trees, through a fern filled glen up to the Geelstoot Pad. Here the forest opens for a while which is great for bird watching before the trail heads onto Nicos Bos Vark Pad for the last leg home.
2) Bushbuck Trail (6.5km Time 2-3 hours).The Bushbuck is more common and can sometimes be seen if one walks quietly through the forest. It hides up in the dense forest during the day and ventures into the open areas at night. A great walk for slightly older families. The route goes past the saw pits and through a couple of streams with wooden bridges to keep your feet dry. The path joins the Akker Pad before joining the Geelstoot Pad. After that the last leg is on Nicos Bos Vark pad.
3) Bush Pig Trail (10km Time 3 to 4 hours) – Bushpigs are herd animals and can be found in groups of up to 20 animals. The evidence of them rooting around for bulbs and edible roots is all over the forest. These animals are dangerous if cornered but are generally heard crashing through the forest undergrowth as the run away. This longer Route follows paths and also the Water Pad. The highlight being a small waterfall and swimming hole at the mid way point. After half way a steady climb brings the hikers out onto the GeelStoot Pad for the amble home via Nicos Bos Vark Pad.
The composition of the forest varies, depending on height above sea level, rainfall, soil type, slope and other factors. It is thus classified into eight different forest types, from very dry to very wet. The classification is done according to the combined assessment of moisture regime, ground, shrub and tree flora as well as factors such as tree form and canopy height. Some trees are labelled. Species encountered include ironwood, yellowwood, white pear, stinkwood, Cherrywood, Cape beech and fine examples of Cape ash. Onderbos (black witch-hazel) abounds in the understory and in the wetter parts you will encounter tree fens. Various climbers (e.g. wild grape), epiphytes (such as old man’s beard and tree orchids), ferns (maidenhair fern), lichens and colourful fungi are also found. The indigenous fauna forms an integral part of the forest. The animals are not often seen but their tracks and droppings are often seen on the walk. Larger mammals include Bush pig, Bushbuck, Blue Duiker, Baboon and Vervet monkeys as well as Leopard and Caracal. Bush pigs are omnivorous and are found in sounders of 6-20 individuals while Bushbuck are either solitary or in pairs. They are nocturnal but are occasionally seen when disturbed during the day. 35-40 species of forest birds are found here, while more are found in areas adjacent to the forest. Species include Knysna Lourie, Narina Trogon, Olive Thrush, Chorister, Cape and Starred Robins. Sound takes priority over sight in the forest, and the birds thus have loud, penetrating calls. Snakes such as the very poisonous boomslang occur but are seldom seen. Its favourite diet is the Knysna dwarf chameleon.
Knysna Forest, Knysna
7th Jul - 13th Jul
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Trailmania Cycle Enduro
Trailmania is a Virtual mountain bike enduro for mountainbikers of all abilities. No special bike required. Enduro is a form of racing were you are timed over a short section of mainly downhill trail. For Trailmania, Garden Route Trail Park has marked seven segments of trail of between 1 and 3km long. The trails are designed to be fast and flowing and suitable for all levels of riders, easy enough for beginners to manage at a reasonable pace. At high speed the trails turn into a wild roller coaster that produces enough adrenalin to keep seasoned veterans on edge. This is the BEST single track in the Garden Route, and its downhill! The Trail Park has fully kitted facilities. Bring cash for snacks and drinks at The TRAIL CAFE and freshen up with a hot shower. Make a day of it and chill out in the picnic area or test your skills on the pumptrack or do both. If you are up for it, just hit the trails again and improve your time.
Garden Route Trail Park, Dormehl Farms, Barrington, Knysna
7th Jul - 11th Jul
10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Green Chefs Knysna
This is a showcase for local community chefs, where they have the scope to use local, home-grown ingredients practising their favourite family recipes.
Daily Meals will be between R35 – R50 p/p
Knysna Tourism, Knysna
7th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
7th Jul
5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Knysna Wine Festival & Night Market
Knysna Wine Festival will once again host some South Africa’s best wine estates. Meet local winemakers, taste their current releases and learn about the latest trends in wine making. One of the premium events of the wine lover’s calendar, this event will showcase nearly 50 of South Africa’s top wine producers. The Night Market at the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival will host a plethora of gourmet food and craft stalls in a Bedouin with seating and live entertainment. This unique shopping, music and eating experience will include food, clothing and jewellery. Wine Festival from 17:30 – 21:00 Night Market from 17:00 – 21:00
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
7th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
8th Jul
5:30 am - 8:00 pm
The Salomon Featherbed Trail Run presented by GU
“The Featherbed Trail Run has once again attracted athletes from across the country, and has grown from one to three race slots since its inception in 2008. The event’s two routes offer a unique opportunity to run across the western Head of Knysna and is the best combination of challenge and spectacular scenery.” The event includes a ferry trip across the Knysna Lagoon to the Western Head. Loaded with traverses through milkwood forests and coastal Fynbos. A meal is included after the finish at Cruise Cafe. Enquire about spectator packages on the Heads Explorer Yacht!
Coelacanth Trail Run : 15 km. This is the one to do! The longer Coelacanth Route will take you along the top of the Western Head where breathtaking vistas await; views across to the sheer cliffs of the Eastern Head and out over the Indian Ocean towards Buffalo Bay. Be prepared to be challenged by some hill work as you climb up from sea level to take in the splendour on the ridge line above the Heads. You’ll find well earned relief on the downhill into Lake Brenton and along the Outeniqua Choo Choo railway bridge to the Finish Line back at the Featherbed Ferry Terminus @ Cruise Cafe.
Seahorse Trail Run: 11.0 km. The shorter Seahorse Route takes a more direct line to the finish, with all its participants being driven to the top of the Western Head by the Featherbed Nature Reserve 4 x 4 truck and seated trailer. This will save your legs the steep, heart pumping, climb from sea level however there is still a fair share of challenging hill work to contend with as you join up with the longer Coelacanth Trail on the ridge line above the Heads. The relief will come as you descend into Lake Brenton and along the Outeniqua Choo Choo railway bridge to the Finish Line back at the Featherbed Ferry Terminus @ Cruise Cafe.
Cruise Café, Knysna
8th Jul
12:30 pm
Navy Ship Enters the Heads
Weather Permitting, Navy Vessel enters the Heads – NSRI Pilots. ship berths at Thesens Wharf
Knysna Heads, Knysna
8th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
8th Jul
5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Knysna Wine Festival & Night Market
Knysna Wine Festival will once again host some South Africa’s best wine estates. Meet local winemakers, taste their current releases and learn about the latest trends in wine making. One of the premium events of the wine lover’s calendar, this event will showcase nearly 50 of South Africa’s top wine producers. The Night Market at the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival will host a plethora of gourmet food and craft stalls in a Bedouin with seating and live entertainment. This unique shopping, music and eating experience will include food, clothing and jewellery. Wine Festival from 17:30 – 20:30 Night Market from 17:00 – 21:00
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
8th Jul
5:30 pm
SASSI Fish Braai
Contestants enter a fish braai competition competing for the Best Fish Braaier in Knysna!
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
8th Jul
7:00 pm
Glenfiddich Whiskey & Food Pairing
Whiskey & Food Pairing. R395 p/p
Turbine Hotel & Spa, Knysna South Africa
8th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
9th Jul
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
FNB Knysna Forest Family Hike
Knysna Forest, Knysna
9th Jul
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Navy Ship Open to the Public
Thesen Island Jetty, Knysna
9th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
9th Jul
2:00 pm
Totalsports XTERRA Kids presented by REHIDRAT® SPORT
The introduction of XTERRA Kids in 2013 was a great addition to the event, allowing kids between the ages of 6-14yrs to join in the fun of XTERRA and expose them to this fantastic sport! Totalsports XTERRA presented by Rehidrat Sport proudly caters for everyone- from kids, to weekend warriors to the pro athlete- through the XTERRA Kids, XTERRA Lite and XTERRA Full events!
Field of Dreams, Pezula Private Estate, Knysna
9th Jul
3:00 pm
Protea Hotel Knysna Quays Waitron Race
This fun-filled family event sees waiters from Knysna and surrounds competing against each other for the title of ultimate waitrons. Eager competitors from local restaurants contend with speed, focus and striking outfits to prove who’s best. The event comprise of two teams competing against each other and requires them to open a bottle wine, pour 2 glasses and run a relay race with their tray, glasses and wine to their team member who needs to repeat the process. The teams are judged on opening the wine, speed, spillage and obviously, the costume!
Knysna Waterfront, Knysna
9th Jul
5:00 pm
PUMA Nightcat Dash
This is a running event consisting of a short run up a hill and down from Pezula Field of Dreams. This will be done in a short waved start format of 15 runners per group. There will be a semi final round for males and females. The total time should not exceed 2,5 hours.
Field of Dreams, Pezula Private Estate, Knysna
9th Jul
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
9th Jul
6:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival Flavours of Knysna with Tabasco on the side
The Pick n Pay Oyster Festival Flavours of Knysna is an evening filled with culinary delights. Ten restaurants will come together from in and around Knysna to showcase their talents in various gastronomic categories for recognition by the expertly selected Judges to stand a chance of winning the Naturally Knysna Oyster Cook Off. Event time: 18h00 – 23h00 Food tasting from 18h00 – 20h30 Entertainment from 20h30 – 23h00. Tickets: R165. Limited tickets available.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
9th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
10th Jul
8:00 am
Totalsports XTERRA presented by REHIDRAT® SPORT
Taking place at the Pezula Field of Dreams in Knysna, Totalsports XTERRA Pezula presented by Rehidrat Sport is the only XTERRA event in the series that does not contain a water discipline. The event follows a Trail Run/MTB/Trail Run format and forms part of the much loved Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival.
Distances: TOTALSPORTS XTERRA FULL: Trail Run: 3km; MTB: 23km; Trail Run: 7km. TOTALSPORTS XTERRA LITE: Trail Run: 3km; MTB: 12,5km; Trail Run: 3km
Field of Dreams, Pezula Private Estate, Knysna
10th Jul
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Navy Ships Open to the Public
Thesen Island Jetty, Knysna
10th Jul
10:00 am
Tabasco Knysna Classic
Put the funny in your 4 ball at the Tabasco Knysna Classic Golf Day, taking place at Simola Golf and Country Estate, where South African comedian Stuart Taylor is sure to put the backspin on the serious side of golf as MC at the prize giving presentation. The event returns to the prestigious Simola Golf and Country Estate, one of South Africa’s premier golfing destinations known for its stunning views. Start time: 10h00 shotgun start. Format: Fourball alliance. Two scores to count. One on Par 3 hole. Entry Fee: R2 800 VAT incl. – includes green fees, golf cart, halfway house, merchandise and prizes at the cocktail prize giving.
Simola Championship Golf Course, Knysna
10th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
10th Jul
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
InstaWalk Knysna
Join us on a scenic InstaWalk of Knysna with top Igers @GarethPon, founder of the Official Instagramers South Africa Community, @Ciden and @ScrumpyJackson who head up IgersGardenRoute, @2Summers and many more. Meet some of the most talented and most followed Igers in South Africa while we photograph iconic Knysna viewpoints at the waterfront, the lagoon and along the disused railway bridge. Meeting Point: We’ll gather at the Main Festival Pavilion in front of the stage and walk from there.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
10th Jul
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Local Design & Food Market
This market is a platform for talented Designers and Foodies from along the Garden Route to promote and sell their goods in a beautifully styled, buzzing environment. The focus is on locally produced home décor, fashion, accessories, clothing and art, as well as freshly and creatively prepared food. Entrance is free.
Upper level parking, Knysna Square, Knysna
10th Jul
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
10th Jul
6:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival Shuckle
The oyster shucking and eating competitions have always been two of the most popular events taking place during the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival. Now these firm favourites have been combined, along with a healthy dose of comedy with two comedian MC’s – Kurt Schoonraad and Stuart Taylor – bound to entertain you. Gates open: 17h30. Event time: 18h00 – 22h00. Venue: Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival Grounds. Tickets: R100. Limited tickets available.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
10th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
10th Jul
7:00 pm
MCC Cap Classique & Oyster Tasting
Wine & Food Tasting. R100 p/p.
Turbine Hotel & Spa, Knysna South Africa
11th Jul
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
FNB Knysna Forest Family Hike
Knysna Forest, Knysna
11th Jul - 13th Jul
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Wood Art Exhibition
Various wood artist to exhibit throughout the piazza area and undercover mall.
Boiler Room at Woodmill Lane, Knysna
11th Jul
10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Momentum Cape Times Knysna Forest Marathon - Registration
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
11th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
11th Jul
2:00 pm
Teens Triathlon
TEENS 4 TOTS - triathlon for teens : Ages 12 – 18
The Event will be run From Quay 4 on Thesen Island area, using the Knysna Lagoon for the swim, the Cycle and run in a circular route, departing from Thesen Island and returning to race village at Quay 4 . Entry will be allowed for teams or individuals in 2 categories : Ages : (12 – 14) , (15 – 18). This is a fundraiser for the Knysna Education Trust – Teens Racing for Tots Education . CASH PRIZES up for Grabs
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
11th Jul
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
11th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Mitchells Brewery, Knysna
11th Jul
7:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
11th Jul
7:00 pm
Whiskey & Food Pairing
A match made in heaven – join us for the freshest, most delectable seafood paired with a fantastic Whisky tasting. R300 p/p.
Simola Hotel & Spa, Knysna
11th Jul
8:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Bloo Bistro, Knysna
11th Jul
8:30 pm
Live Entertainment
Mo’s on Rex, Knysna
12th Jul
4:30 am - 12:30 pm
Momentum Cape Times Knysna Forest Marathon & Half Marathon
04:30 – Marathon taxi transport to the Glebe from Cnr George Rex Dr & Vigilance Dr
7:00 am – Full marathon starts. 8:00 am – Half marathon starts
The Glebe in the forest, Knysna
12th Jul
7:30 am
Knysna Marathon Club 5km Fun Run
A shorter option for the not so fit.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
12th Jul
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Navy Ships Open to the Public
Thesen Island Jetty, Knysna
12th Jul - 13th Jul
10:00 am
Obikwa Canoe Polo Challenge
Social and competitive round robin tournament. Teams of five each battle it out for the Knysna Championship with the final on Sunday the 13th. Number of teams still to be confirmed. This is an spectator sport with free wine tasting.
Knysna Waterfront, Knysna
12th Jul
10:45 am
Naval Parade
Parade made up of members of the ship’s company and Sea Cadets, led by the SA Navy Band form up at Pledge Square – march to form up at Memorial Square.
Memorial Square, Knysna
12th Jul
12:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
12th Jul - 13th Jul
12:00 pm - 1:00 am
Q4 Castle Lite Party
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
12th Jul
12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
12th Jul
2:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Knysna Waterfront, Knysna
12th Jul
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
12th Jul
6:00 pm - 11:30 pm
The Official Marathon After Party
Finish the day off with McCully’s Workshop and DJ Entertainment
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
12th Jul
6:30 pm
Oyster Ball
Ball to Honour Senior visiting Naval Officer
Knysna Yacht Club, Knysna
12th Jul
6:30 pm
Seafood Extravaganza
The Freshest, most delectable seafood extravaganza. R220 p/p.
Simola Hotel & Spa, Knysna
12th Jul
8:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Bloo Bistro, Knysna
12th Jul
8:30 pm
Live Entertainment
Mo’s on Rex, Knysna
13th Jul
8:30 am
Houtkapper Trail Run
This inaugural trail run offers 3 routes of varying lengths and difficulty. Taking runners through the forests made famous by Daleen Mathee (the late authoress of Circles in the forest, Fiela’s child, Moerbeibos and others), runners will pass through Krisjan-se-nek (where Daleen Mathee’s ashes were scattered), the Daleen Mathee memorial and the site of the 880 year old Yellowwood tree known as the Daleen Mathee Big Tree.
The 15km and 27km routes have been chosen not only to challenge the intermediate to experienced trail runners but to provide them with an opportunity to experience the deepest secrets at the heart of the Knysna forest. Single track and terrain to excite trail runners of all ability including an easier route for the beginner trail runner of 9km. Water can be drunk and bottles/hydration packs filled at the various watercrossings – don’t be put off by the colour (tannin). ASA runner insurance will apply.
15 km Trail Run - This route is best suited to the intermediate trail runner wanting to gain further trail experience. The route includes single track through breath-taking Knysna forest, water crossing, a waterfall and some hills that are guaranteed to get the heart pumping. The route includes sections of the very popular “Circles in the forest”hiking trail. Caution needs to be exercised on single track and stream crossings as rocks and leaves can be very slippery. Pay attention to Marshals as sections of the route must be completed in single file. The routes will be clearly marked and marshalled. Most of the route will be under a full tree canopy.
27 km Hardcore Houtkapper run - This route is best suited to the experienced trail runner. Caution needs to be exercised on single track and stream crossings as rocks and leaves can be very slippery. Pay attention to Marshals as sections of the route must be completed in single file. Along with the breathtaking beauty of the indigenous forest runners will travel through Jubilee Creek, Natbos, Jubilee bush and the sections of the Outeniqua hiking trail. With close to 16km of single track to make your heart sing. All that Knysna’s indigenous forest has to offer is included – giant tree ferns, river, stream, waterfall and ancient Yellowwood trees. All the streams in the area was also the source of the yellow stuff that resulted in the Mill Wood gold rush.
Goudveld, Rheenendal, Knysna
13th Jul
8:30 am
Pick n Pay Women’s Walk
Show your support for breast cancer buy joining us for the Pick n Pay Women’s Walk. A 5km fun family walk to raise funds for the PinkDrive who provide free breast cancer examinations and education to women in underprivileged communities.
Join us for a family day of entertainment, community and education, there will also be a lucky draw and best dressed competition on the day.
Festival Pavilion, Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival grounds, Knysna Western Cape
13th Jul
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Navy Ships Open to the Public
Thesen Island Jetty, Knysna
13th Jul
10:30 am
Concert by SA Navy Band
Knysna Waterfront, Knysna
13th Jul
12:30 pm
Live Entertainment
Tapas & Oysters, Knysna
13th Jul
1:00 pm
Live Entertainment
Quay 4 Knysna, Knysna
Further Reading
We are very excited that Hope Villa has made it into the pages of the February 2021 issue of Getaway magazine!!!
Our Traveller Review Award recognises our efforts to offer outstanding hospitality in spite of all of last year’s challenges.
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