Visit Knysna, Knysna Tourism, Garden Route, South Africa

Author: Keagon Borchards

AN EXCITING PROGRAMME OF EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN KNYSNA THIS SUMMER

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

The annual summer holiday in South Africa is finally here, and the Greater Knysna area is ready to welcome visitors from across the country and around the world.

Ms Lungiswa Goya, Manager of Economic Development and Tourism at Knysna Municipality, says the area is the perfect backdrop for relaxation and quality time with loved ones. “Visitors are spoilt for choice with eight beautiful beaches in the area: Swartvlei, Cola and Myoli in Sedgefield, Brenton-on-Sea, Buffalo Bay, Bollard Bay on Leisure Island, Coney Glen and Noetzie Beach.”

The Knysna Estuary is a favourite among boating enthusiasts and a haven for anglers and water sport lovers alike. “Every year, the estuary is jam-packed with boaters and water sports enthusiasts, and this year will be no exception. The Featherbed Beach Bar will also be open again – a fantastic ‘feet-in-the-sand’ lunch option.”

As the most crucial estuary in South Africa for conservation and the only natural estuarine bay on the subcontinent, it must be enjoyed responsibly by visitors. Goya reminds visitors to stay within the main waterways. “Please keep to the areas marked by channel markers and remember that the shallow grassy areas are home to many estuarine animals, including the endangered Knysna seahorse.”

Click here to download the Summer Events Calendar and Top Things to do

BLUE AND GREEN FLAG STATUS

Goya said Thesen Harbour Town Marina once again received a Blue Flag Marina status this year. “It was officially awarded Blue Flag Marina status on 8 October 2013 for the first time, and every year subsequently. The voluntary application for Blue Flag status must be renewed annually to ensure compliance with all strict environmental criteria. Thesen Harbour Town falls within the Greater Garden Route National Park, and it works closely with SANParks, WESSA, Working for the Coast, NSRI and the Knysna Municipality to ensure they meet and keep the rigorous requirements required for Blue Flag Status.”

Goya said Swartvlei Beach in Sedgefield was once again recognised as a standout eco-tourism destination, securing the esteemed Green Coast status from the Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa (Wessa) for the second consecutive year.

Knysna’s events calendar is also bursting with activity. Goya says the season kicks off with the annual Mayoral Friendly Roadblock on 12 December. “Visitors are spoilt for choice this year. Blackwater River Lodge has a fantastic family-friendly programme, and the Carols by Candlelight events at Leisure Isle and the Knysna Mall – both in aid of local charities – will remind you of the special meaning of Christmas.”

Live music lovers also have plenty to look forward to, with some of South Africa’s top performers heading to Knysna. “Look out for the Better Live events at Blend, the Knysna Summer Festival at the High School grounds on Waterfront Drive, and the Get Lucky Summer event at Loerie Park. There are also several New Year’s Eve celebrations to choose from. Visit our website for a full programme.”

Goya said the Greater Knysna area has been experiencing arid conditions in recent months. “We are currently under Level 4 water restrictions. Please enjoy the area responsibly and remain mindful of your water use. Lastly, but certainly not least, we hope you have a wonderful holiday, and we look forward to welcoming you.”

Knysna welcomes visitors for the end-of-year holiday season

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

With less than a month to South Africa’s summer holiday season, Visit Knysna is ready to welcome national and international travellers eager to experience the region’s warm hospitality, pristine natural surroundings, and wide variety of outdoor adventures.

“Knysna, like much of the Southern Cape, is experiencing a prolonged dry weather condition, but our tourism sector has stepped up with strong water-saving measures to ensure we remain a world-class destination,” says Lungiswa Goya, Manager: Local Economic Development & Tourism. “We want visitors to know that Knysna is open, prepared, and excited to welcome them. Their support sustains our local economy, and our natural assets are as beautiful and open as before.”

Elmay Bouwer from the Greater Knysna Business Chamber said businesses, especially in the tourism industry, are mindful of the conditions and have implemented measures to reduce water flow. “These include fitting low-flow devices, suspending non-essential laundry services and managing pools sustainably. Many tourism businesses have implemented water-wise systems, and most activities remain unaffected by the restrictions.”

Goya said visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and signature experiences Knysna is known for – from lagoon adventures and forest hikes to scenic viewpoints, vibrant markets, and picture-worthy beaches. “Food lovers can indulge in Knysna’s thriving culinary scene, while families will find a variety of child-friendly activities, nature excursions, and creative spaces to explore. Knysna also remains committed to accessibility, offering wheelchair-friendly beaches, viewpoints, and thoughtfully designed public areas, including the region’s distinctive mosaics and art installations.”

She said a dynamic line-up of seasonal events – from festive markets to live performances and community activities – promises to add colour and energy to the holiday experience. “As always, we look forward to welcoming visitors who are ready to explore, unwind, and experience the spirit of Knysna,” says Goya. “Your visit truly matters, and our town is ready to make your holiday memorable.”

For more information on activities, events, accommodation, and responsible travel tips, visit Visit Knysna’s official channels or email info@visitknysna.co.za.

THIS IS KNYSNA CAMPAIGN CELEBRATED

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

A meet-and-greet with media and participants in Visit Knysna’s “This is Knysna” campaign was held this afternoon at the Turbine Hotel.

Ms Lungiswa Goya, Manager Economic Development and Tourism, welcomed everyone and reiterated the importance of the community and the Municipality working together. “We need to collaborate to showcase the best of our destination. The residents have an important role to play, and their actions, as much as our initiatives, help us shape the destination and the visitor experience. We appreciate the contributions of private institutions and hope that we can continue and build this relationship.

The campaign is a digital initiative that highlights residents whose actions have made a positive contribution to the Greater Knysna area and helped shape the visitor experience. Six videos have been created focusing on individuals who, through their actions, have enhanced the destination. Whether a tourism experience has been made, a nationally recognised farmer’s market created, a mosaic or art route, or improving the town’s gardens, they all play a role in the visitor’s experience. We recognised them and thanked them.”

Goya said a report from the social media monitoring company Sprout Social indicated that the digital campaign, launched at the beginning of September, has generated more than 1 million impressions, 33,930 engagements, reached more than 49,000 people, and resulted in Visit Knysna receiving 954 messages. “To date, it has created more than a million views on the various Visit Knysna platforms with a total of 33,930 engagements.”

The videos can be viewed on Visit Knysna’s Facebook (@visitknysna) and Instagram (@visitknysna) pages, and on YouTube (visitknysna).
For more information on the campaign, please email info@visitknysna.co.za or call Visit Knysna on +27 (44) 382 5510.

Home of Golf Africa Strengthens Continental Leadership

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Expanded partnership unites George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism, Mossel Bay Tourism, Visit Knysna, and Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism under a single destination brand celebrating South Africa’s premier golf coastline.

The Garden Route’s drive to position itself as The Home of Golf in Africa has gained major momentum with the addition of new regional tourism partners.

The initiative, originally championed by George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism through the George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA), now officially includes Mossel Bay Tourism, Visit Knysna, and Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism, solidifying a united front to promote one of the world’s most scenic golfing regions, marking a significant milestone in regional collaboration.

“This expanded partnership transforms Home of Golf Africa from a local initiative into a regional force,” says Charl Marais, Chairperson of Home of Golf Africa. “By bringing together our neighbouring tourism offices, we’re amplifying the region’s visibility on a global stage – from Mossel Bay’s dramatic cliffs to Knysna’s lagoon fairways, the Garden Route now speaks with one powerful voice.”

A GOLF DESTINATION WITHOUT EQUAL
The Garden Route’s golfing appeal lies in a concentration of excellence found nowhere else in Africa. Within just two hours’ drive, golfers can experience 12 world-class courses – seven of which rank among South Africa’s Top 30, and each a masterpiece of design, diversity, and scenery.
The Links at Fancourt, currently rated No.1 in South Africa, leads this prestigious collection, joined by The Links Experience, Montagu and Outeniqua courses at Fancourt, Kingswood Golf Estate, Oubaai, George Golf Club, Pinnacle Point Estate, Simola Golf and Country Estate, Pezula Championship Golf Course, Knysna Golf Club, and Mossel Bay Golf Club.

These courses carry the signatures of golfing legends, from Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Peter Matkovich, and Darren Clarke among them, and have hosted international tournaments such as the Presidents Cup, NTT Dimension Data Pro-Am, and SA Open events.

SCENERY THAT RIVALS ANY FAIRWAY ON EARTH
Every course along the Garden Route tells a story through its setting. From Pinnacle Point’s dramatic clifftop holes overlooking the Indian Ocean to George Golf Club’s classic parkland design framed by the Outeniqua Mountains, the region delivers a sensory experience beyond the game itself.

Knysna’s lagoon-side courses, Oubaai’s coastal cliffs, and Simola’s forested ridges create a diversity of landscapes that few golf destinations in the world can rival. This combination of ocean air, mountain vistas, and indigenous forest transforms every round into a journey and every swing into a memory.

DESIGNED FOR GOLFERS, BUILT FOR TRAVELLERS
The Garden Route’s allure extends far beyond the greens. It offers a complete lifestyle experience where golf meets adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Players can enjoy Big Five safaris, wine tasting, culinary experiences or outdoor adventures within the entire Garden Route and Klein Karoo region. With its mild year-round climate, the region provides ideal playing conditions 365 days a year, making it a dream destination for international golfers escaping northern winters or extreme heat.

A POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP FOR GLOBAL REACH
The Home of Golf Africa brings together 12 exceptional golf courses along one of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines. The collective effort ensures consistent international branding, shared marketing investment, and a stronger voice in attracting global tour operators, media, and travellers to South Africa’s southern coast.

Partner Courses Include:

Mossel Bay: Pinnacle Point Estate, Mossel Bay Golf Club
George: The Links, Montagu, Outeniqua, and The Links Experience at Fancourt, George Golf Club, Kingswood Golf Estate, Oubaai Golf Estate
Knysna: Simola Golf & Country Estate, Pezula Championship Golf Course, Knysna Golf Club

“This collaboration is more than symbolic; it’s a practical, strategic step to elevate the Garden Route’s standing in the global golf tourism arena,” adds Joan Shaw, Tourism Manager for George. “Together, we’re creating opportunities for growth, visibility, and community development across the region.”

A CONTINENTAL BENCHMARK FOR GOLF TOURISM
With its blend of championship golf, spectacular scenery, and five-star hospitality, the Garden Route’s Home of Golf Africa brand sets a new standard for golf tourism on the continent.

The region has already earned worldwide acclaim:
The Links at Fancourt is ranked #1 in South Africa and among the Top 100 courses in the world (Golf Digest).
Pinnacle Point Estate is hailed by Golfscape and Global Golfer as one of the Top 10 Most Scenic Courses on Earth.
Simola and Pezula are consistently featured among South Africa’s Top 30 courses.
Fancourt Hotel & Estate is the multiple winner of Africa’s Best Golf Hotel at the World Golf Awards.

ABOUT HOME OF GOLF AFRICA
Home of Golf Africa was established by the George Joint Marketing Association (GJMA) NPC with the mission to connect golf lovers around the world to South Africa’s most iconic fairways, hidden gems, and welcoming communities.

The initiative promotes the growth, sustainability, and accessibility of the sport throughout the Garden Route while driving economic and tourism development in the region.

Knysna welcomes the world’s best as Nedbank Gravel Burn begins this Sunday

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Knysna takes centre stage in the cycling world this weekend as it hosts the start of Nedbank Gravel Burn – the seven day, 800 kilometre gravel bike race that is set to showcase South Africa’s diverse landscapes from the leafy Garden Route to the arid Great Karoo and onwards to the Eastern Cape, finishing in iconic African bushveld at Shamwari Private Game Reserve.

Riders from around the world have begun arriving in Knysna, filling hotels and guest houses across town. Registration takes place on Saturday at The Moorings hotel, which will also serve as the official start on Sunday, 26 October. From there, 500 riders will roll out on Stage 1, beginning their journey through forests, over mountain passes and across the vast open plains of the Karoo.

Nedbank Gravel Burn celebrates endurance, adventure and South African storytelling. After their days of endeavour, riders will camp under the stars in remote Burn Camps along the way, where access to the race is limited to competitors and crew. This makes the start in Knysna the only public opportunity to experience the race in person.

WHERE TO WATCH

Spectators can watch the start at The Moorings on Sunday, 26 October to see the riders set off at 08:30. Enjoy a Vida e Caffè coffee, pick up a copy of the official race magazine and be part of the excitement as the 500-strong field rolls out through Knysna. The route takes riders up Simola Hill with sweeping views over the town, then through the coastal forests before ascending Prince Alfred’s Pass on their way to Avontuur, the site of the first Burn Camp.

WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR

The field includes Olympic Champion and Tour de France stage winner Tom Pidcock, Paris Roubaix Femmes champion Alison Jackson, and many of the world’s leading endurance riders. They will compete for a share of the $150,000 prize purse, the largest in global gravel racing and for the honour of lifting the handcrafted Fire Starter Trophy.

FOLLOW THE ACTION

For Knysna, the event brings a welcome opportunity to share its natural beauty, hospitality and sense of community with visitors from around the world. The race will be featured in a 26 minute daily television show on SuperSport Action each evening at 21:30 during race week. It will also be covered across global cycling media and the event’s social channels, placing Knysna firmly on the international cycling stage.

BE PART OF IT

Residents are invited to watch the start and bring their ‘Knysna energy’ to this special occasion of the inaugural Nedbank Gravel Burn start.

For more information, visit www.gravel-burn.com or follow @gravel_burn on social media for live updates, race stories and behind the scenes coverage.

About Nedbank Gravel Burn
Nedbank Gravel Burn is a 7-day, 800km gravel stage race through South Africa’s diverse landscapes. From lush coastal forests to the vast Great Karoo, riders enjoy remote camps under starry skies and conclude their journey at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, encountering Africa’s iconic Big 5 wildlife. The race inspires, challenges and connects riders in equal measure.

For more information, visit: gravel-burn.com

This is Knysna: Stories that shape a destination

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Knysna is renowned for its natural beauty, and landmarks like the famous Knysna Heads and Featherbed Nature Reserve are on the list of Top 10 things to do in the Garden Route.

The area also has an asset that often goes unnoticed: it is a living, breathing community of people, stories, and traditions that make the town extraordinary. It isn’t just a destination. It’s the people, the stories, the traditions, and the spirit that shape it.

This Tourism Month, Visit Knysna celebrates these stories and individuals by launching a people-centered digital campaign. Ms Lungiswa Goya, Manager: Local Economic Development Manager at the Knysna Municipality, said they will introduce some of the individuals who help shape the visitor experience, the “guardians of the forest, storytellers in mosaic, market icons, and everyday locals.”

3-Hour Mark shattered at the 2025 Lions Karoo to Coast

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Having broken the course record in 2024, Tristan Nortje became the first rider to dip below the 3-hour mark at the Lions Karoo to Coast, as he bettered his own record en route to victory in the 26th edition, on Sunday, 21 September. He was joined atop the podium by fellow George local, Mellusca Toovey, who held off the women’s defending champion, Catherine Colyn, to win the 2025 title. Chilly but clear conditions made for good racing weather, though a headwind detracted from what would otherwise have been even faster times.

Nortje and his Imbuko ChemChamp Toyota teammate, Marco Joubert, raced aboard gravel bikes. This choice aided the winner in his bid to break the 3-hour mark. When he broke Charles Keey’s 12-year-old record last year, Nortje had reported that a headwind on the final sector of the course, along the banks of the Knysna Lagoon, had prevented him from going the 32 seconds faster he required to go sub-3 in 2024. This year, the fabled mark and the victory were never in doubt in the closing phases of the 95-kilometre race from Uniondale to Knysna.

The Lions Karoo to Coast is one of South Africa’s most iconic mountain bike events. Having been first staged in 1999, it has witnessed the evolution of off-road cycling. Long gone are the days of 26-inch wheels and narrow handlebars. Perhaps the event has now moved into the gravel bike era, usurping the once ubiquitous 29er, as Nortje proved that drop bar bikes are indeed fastest over the rutted surfaces of Prince Alfred’s Pass.

“The route was tough!” Nortje grimaced on the finish line. “The descents are rough and even on the climbs you have to stay in the saddle to keep traction, so I’m not sure how the gravel bike is faster, but it is.”

“The Lions Karoo to Coast is a race I always wanted to do as a kid growing up in George, so to be able to come here and take the win last year was very special,” he smiled. “Coming back this year, the aim was to break the record again, and being able to achieve that is extra special. Like last year, I had a plan to go early to prevent having a group slow things down, as everyone looked at each other. I got away about 2 kilometres into the race and just rode solo from there. There was a headwind the whole way, so that made things really tough! But I just kept my head down and kept pushing.”

Nortje’s winning time of 2 hours, 56 minutes, and 51 seconds is 3 minutes and 40 seconds faster than his 2024 course record. His nearest rivals finished 11 minutes and 38 seconds down. His teammate, Joubert, outsprinted Valley Electrical Titan Racing’s Herman Fourie for second, while Cronje Beukes added another George local success story to the day in fourth. Rogan Smart, of Plettenberg Bay, was fifth, edging out Pieter Korkie in another sprint for a minor placing.

In the women’s race, mountain bikes won. Toovey, a multisport star from the Garden Route, has notched up victories in triathlons, trail runs, and now an iconic mountain bike race too. Tactics and group strength played their part in her victory, too, but the foundation was laid by Toovey’s ability to descend faster.

“I was in a group with Catherine Colyn and a few very fast men, at the top of Prince Alfred’s Pass,” Toovey explained. “On that long descent to De Vlugt, she [Colyn] wasn’t able to follow, and I thought if I could stay with those men, I’d have a good chance of winning.”

Drafting and working with that group, Toovey was able to maintain an advantage over the defending champion, but Colyn was not easily beaten. “She came back to us a bit at the end there,” the 2025 winner noted. “So, she was super strong over the back of the course.”

“This is my first Lions Karoo to Coast in 9 years, after kids, so it’s amazing to be back here and to take the win,” Toovey beamed.

The newly crowned Queen of the race completed the course in an impressive time of 3 hours, 45 minutes, and 54 seconds. Colyn was second, 3 minutes and 53 seconds down. Stephanie Wohlters, a relatively new resident of the Garden City of George, completed the women’s podium places. Juanita Mackenzie and Kelly Freeth completed the top five. Wohlters, Mackenzie, and Freeth were separated by just 46 seconds after 95 kilometres of racing.

Alongside the competitive elites, over 1 600 more social riders took to the Lions Karoo to Coast course in 2025. They were treated to magnificent and constantly changing scenery on their journey from Uniondale in the Karoo to Knysna on the Indian Ocean coast. Leaving the small town of Uniondale, sparse shrubbery gave way to orchards in the Langkloof, at Avontuur, before a mix of fynbos and forests lined the sides of the road along Prince Alfred’s Pass. From Kruisvallai, 54 kilometres into the route, 15 kilometres of pine plantations dominated, before Kom se Pad heralded the approaching coast with indigenous forest, which is inexorably linked to Knysna. The final climb, from the Gouna River to Simola, brought the gravel to its conclusion, and the final 7 kilometres were gloriously smooth asphalt, providing an opportunity to reflect on the ride before reaching the finish line on the Knysna High School’s sports fields.

To relive the highlights of the 2025 Lions Karoo to Coast, riders and cycling fans alike can follow @karoo2coast on Instagram and like the Karoo to Coast Facebook page. For more information on the iconic event, visit www.karootocoast.com.

2025 Lions Karoo to Coast Results:
Elite Men:
1. Tristan Nortje (2:56:51)
2. Marco Joubert (3:08:29)
3. Herman Fourie (3:08:31)
4. Cronje Beukes (3:09:15)
5. Rogan Smart (3:14:10)

Elite Women:
1. Mellusca Toovey (3:45:54)
2. Catherine Colyn (3:49:47)
3. Stephanie Wohlters (3:57:10)
4. Juanita Mackenzie (3:57:30)
5. Kelly Freeth (3:57:56)

For the full results from the 2025 Lions Karro to Coast, please click here.

Southern Cape Community Spirit on Display at the Lions Karoo to Coast

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Community is at the core of the Lions Karoo to Coast, from the individuals who volunteer to man registration tables and water points to the charitable beneficiaries of the race, and on to the young riders who have used it as a springboard to launch careers at the highest levels of cycling. The people of Uniondale, Knysna, and the farming communities along the 96-kilometre route are all key to the success of the 26-year-old race. With entries to the 2025 edition closing on the 5th of September at 17:00, this is a reminder of not only why the Southern Cape rallies around the Lions Karoo to Coast, but also why you should enter to ride Prince Alfred’s Pass on Sunday, 21 September 2025.

The longest gravel pass in the country is an attraction in and of itself. After crossing into the Langkloof on an old wagon track, the race joins Prince Alfred’s Pass at Avontuur, in the Langkloof. Once on one of Thomas Bain’s masterpieces, the orchards of the Langkloof soon give way to rugged Outeniqua Mountain scenery. Sheer cliff faces and deep valleys open up before you. From the summit of every climb, new vistas unfurl, until the vegetation becomes denser and the deep, indigenous forests hint that Knysna is nearby. A fast-paced descent to the Gouna River on Kom se Pad leads into the final climb to the heights of Simola. After 88 kilometres, the challenges are behind you, a smooth tar road descent brings you to the edge of the Knysna Lagoon, from where it is a beautiful cruise to the finish line on the Knysna High School Sports Fields. The final 7 kilometres are the perfect opportunity for reflection, unless of course you are racing for victory.

In 2024, Tristan Nortje, who hails from George, shattered the 12-year-old course record. The Imbuko ChemChamp rider went solo on the Old Wagon Trail climb, just 10 kilometres into the race, and still came within 32 seconds of breaking the 3-hour mark. Expect Nortje’s record and that mythical mark to be challenged in 2025, especially if the trend of gravel bikes equipped with mountain bike tyres continues into the Lions Karoo to Coast.

Both gravel and E-Bikes are welcome at the race. The Lions Karoo to Coast now offers a free E-Bike Service, which allows E-Bikers to send a replacement battery to the Buffelsnek aid station, 59 kilometres into the course, to ensure that they can conquer the 1 560 metres of climbing with ease.

Squirt Cycling Products celebrates 20 years of partnership with the event, and they too can be found at Buffelsnek this year, celebrating with their factory team at the free bicycle chain lube station. They are a prime example of the local roots that run through the Lions Karoo to Coast. On route, you will also be able to sample Peak Daily, the new official Nutrition Partners of the event. Peak manufactures some of its products in Uniondale, further deepening the regional connection.

The local municipalities and tourism bureaus are intimately involved, too. Uniondale falls within the greater George Municipality, and as the most rural of the communities in the city’s management, is supported by both the tourism office and municipality to enable the hosting of 1 500 mountain bikers and their families.

As Executive Mayor of George Municipality, I am proud that our rural gem, Uniondale, is the starting point of the renowned Lions Karoo to Coast. For nearly three decades, this event has celebrated our region’s natural beauty, community spirit, and the connection across the Outeniqua Mountains,” Executive Mayor Jackie von Brandis stated. “What makes it truly special is how it unites our communities and showcases Uniondale’s capacity to host 1 500 cyclists and their families. This race strengthens George’s position as the sporting hub of the Garden Route while creating economic opportunities and supporting worthy causes.”

Registration for the 2025 event will be an expanded affair for the first time this year, with an Expo running alongside on Friday (19 September, 16:00 – 20:00) and Saturday (20 September, 13:00 – 20:00) for race pack collections. Local is lekker in Uniondale, and the town will be out in force to celebrate the Lions Karoo to Coast, with food trucks, roosterkoek and pancakes, as well as a few of the Cape’s award-winning wineries. From further afield, Seattle Coffee Co will keep you caffeinated while browsing the stalls. For last-minute spares and repairs, you will be able to drop by the Sedgefield Cycle Worx stand. The young and young at heart can burn off energy on the mini paintball range, while the more mature visitors will be entertained by live music while relaxing in the Safari Braai Chill Zone.

On the coastal side of the Outeniqua Mountains, Knysna will be equally hospitable. The citizens, businesses, and the municipality are all eagerly awaiting the 2025 edition. “The Lions Karoo to Coast has become one of Knysna’s flagship events,” Knysna Executive Mayor, Councillor Thando Matika, said. “Not only does it showcase the natural beauty of our area, but it also provides a welcome boost to the local economy outside of the traditional holiday season. Each year, the race attracts riders and their families from across South Africa, filling our accommodation establishments, restaurants, and shops, creating valuable opportunities for local businesses. We are proud to support the event by providing some essential services needed for a safe and enjoyable experience, including traffic management and safety oversight. This year, the bridge under the N2 was rebuilt to ensure the route runs smoothly. Hosting events of this calibre reinforces Knysna’s reputation as a premier destination for festivals and sporting experiences, and we look forward to welcoming participants and visitors alike.”

Every finisher of the Lions Karoo to Coast is a winner and can head home happy, not only for having completed a challenging and rewarding race, but also for having contributed to the event’s beneficiaries. The Lions Clubs of Uniondale and Knysna donate all proceeds to charities, with their Knights for the Blind ethos driving donations to the Guide Dog Association of South Africa and several local ocular organisations.

Four finishers will ride away particularly happy, though, as the Scott Sports Africa lucky draw has been expanded to four bicycles in 2025. To see hints of what Scott Bicycles and the other partners have in store for you at the Lions Karoo to Coast, follow @karoo2coast on Instagram and like the

Karoo to Coast Facebook page. Entries to the 2025 edition will remain open until 5 September, at 17:00. The R800 entry fee includes dinner at the Uniondale Show Grounds on Saturday evening, and accommodation options can be found on the event website, www.karootocoast.com, or by clicking here. To enter the race, visit www.online.entries.co.za or follow this link.

 

2025 Lions Karoo to Coast
Race Date: 21 September 2025
Entries Close: 5 September 2025 at 17:00
Entry Fee: R800 per person (Including dinner in Uniondale)
Online Entries: online.entries.co.za
Registration & Start: Uniondale Show Grounds
Finish: Knysna High School Sports Fields
Facebook: Karoo to Coast
Instagram: @karoo2coast
Website: www.karootocoast.com

Record-breaking Knysna Oyster Festival delivers R41 million boost to local economy

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

The 2025 Knysna Oyster Festival has wrapped up its most successful post-Covid celebration yet, drawing thousands to the Garden Route and generating an estimated R41 million in economic impact for the Greater Knysna area. Over 10 packed days from 4–13 July, more than 100 diverse events transformed the town into a hub of sport, lifestyle, food, family, and community spirit.

According to NightsBridge data, the 2025 Festival saw a significant rise in visitor arrivals to the Greater Knysna region. The surge in tourism was driven by a jam-packed programme that offered something for everyone, from seasoned marathon runners and cyclists to oyster lovers, car enthusiasts, and young families.

Over 6,700 participants crossed the finish line in the iconic Knysna Forest Marathon and Half Marathon, while the popular Knysna Cycle Tour attracted 1,500 cyclists across five events. With many attendees accompanied by partners or family, estimates suggest more than 16,000 people actively engaged in the festival’s offerings, contributing an average spend of R2,500 per day across the ten days.

More than 32,000 oysters were devoured at 14 designated Oyster Hotspots. Culinary highlights included the Stella Artois Oyster Cooking & Shucking Championships, Honey-Inspired Evenings, Forest Feasts, the Dessert War Fair and Knysna Fine Wine Festival. The Eden Classic Car & Motorcycle Show and SANDF display offered vibrant, family-friendly spectacle.
From puppet workshops to canoe polo, chess tournaments to 4×4 off-road adventures, the festival continued its proud tradition of being ‘more than just oysters’.

Charity remained central to the festival’s mission. A total of R597,400 was raised for local causes, with R407,500 generated by the Knysna Forest Marathon and Half Marathon alone. The 5 km for CANSA added both community spirit and critical support for cancer awareness initiatives.
Local businesses also felt the impact: the Festival Hub alone reported R741,592 in turnover—more than double its 2024 figure. The Neighbourhood Makers Tent brought in R160,092 in sales, highlighting the support for local artisans and entrepreneurs.

The festival also drew massive media attention, with R5.9 million in print, broadcast and online media value and R14.2 million in social media reach and engagement.

Backed by R1.14 million in sponsorships, and championed by a dedicated community and team, the 2025 Knysna Oyster Festival proved once again why it remains one of South Africa’s most beloved and enduring annual traditions.

“The Knysna Oyster Festival continues to be a shining example of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose and pride,” said Knysna Executive Mayor, Councillor Thando Matika. “Not only has this year’s festival brought a powerful economic boost to our region, but it has also showcased the very best of Knysna’s people, spirit and potential. We are deeply grateful to every organiser, participant, sponsor and visitor who made it such a resounding success.”

The 2026 Knysna Oyster Festival will run from 3–12 July. Save the date!

Resilient Knysna: Where Natural Beauty Meets Community Spirit

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Nestled between forests, mountains, rivers and sea, the Greater Knysna area continues to offer visitors a rich and rewarding year-round experience.

Knysna Municipal Manager, Lulamile Mapholoba, said the area is nestled between mountains, forests, rivers and the ocean. “This makes for magnificent natural vistas and a dreamscape for visitors to the area. With these assets comes the responsibility of ensuring it is maintained and safe for public use. Walkways, forest roads, hiking and cycle tracks are maintained. Regular water quality testing by SANParks and the Garden Route District Municipality is crucial to confirm that rivers, estuaries and recreational areas are safe for public use. These test results are available for public viewing on the Knysna Municipality website – https://www.knysna.gov.za/live-here/environment/lagoon-update/. Cleaning initiatives to address plastic and other pollution, as well as the removal of invasive vegetation are among the measures undertaken to ensure that this area this area remains safe, well-maintained, and ready for visitors to explore and enjoy.”

Mapholoba stated that the support of the private sector remains vital to the town’s well-being. “With public sector budgets increasingly stretched across the globe, municipalities are being called to be innovate, rethink, and reimagine how they deliver essential services. We are fortunate to have a strong relationship with local initiatives launched by residents, such as the Knysna Infrastructure Group, a civic-minded team of professionals working in partnership with the Knysna Municipality to address long-term service needs and help to improve delivery timelines. Another example is “Revive Knysna”, a non-profit organisation helping to revitalise and green public spaces, making the town even more beautiful for residents and visitors alike.”

Judiet Barnes, spokesperson on Tourism for the Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC) said Knysna remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination. “While Knysna, like many municipalities in South Africa, is facing legitimate governance concerns, these challenges do not define our town, nor do they detract from its enduring appeal as one of the country’s most beloved travel destinations.”

She reiterated that the local tourism industry is robust, professional, and fully operational. “Accommodation providers, tour operators, restaurants, and experience hosts across Knysna remain committed to delivering excellence, hospitality, and safety. From tranquil lagoon cruises to forest hikes, local art, gourmet food, and family-friendly adventures, Knysna continues to offer the rich, authentic charm it is known for.”
“We acknowledge and support the need for stronger governance and improved municipal service delivery. However, we urge the public and the media to recognise the distinction between administrative issues and the vitality of Knysna’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Now more than ever, your visit to Knysna matters. Tourism supports thousands of livelihoods and small businesses, contributes significantly to local economic stability, and helps preserve the very natural and cultural assets that make Knysna extraordinary.”

Mapholoba concluded by saying that the Municipality, through assistance from both national and provincial government, and with the help of the private sector, is addressing the challenges. “We are in the process of finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding with private entities, which will be presented to Council for consideration. Knysna is a town that doesn’t just talk about caring. We act on it. The natural beauty remains, but the community spirit shines even brighter. Come and enjoy all it has to offer: lakes, rivers, forests, scenic drives, warm hospitality, amazing, friendly people, and diverse adventures. We look forward to welcoming you to the Greater Knysna area!”