Visit Knysna, Knysna Tourism, Garden Route, South Africa

Author: Keagon Borchards

Tourism month is in full swing

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Created by South African Tourism to focus on the importance of the sector to the South African economy, it is aligned with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s (UNWTO) World Tourism Day celebrations taking place on the 27th of September this year.

Executive Deputy Mayor & Chairperson Planning, Economic Development & Tourism Committee: Cllr Alberto Marbi, said the 2022 theme of World Tourism Day celebrations this year revolves around resilience. “UNWTO theme is ‘Rethink tourism’ this year – to rethink how we can ‘do’ tourism in a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient sector. “

“Tourism is a key part of Knysna’s economy and now, post the devastation of COVID-related travel restrictions, it is more important than ever to work on building a sustainable and resilient industry. To ‘rethink’ tourism and appreciate and value everyone that is part of the tourism experience, from souvenir makers to rangers, guest house staff, hotel managers and local service providers to the industry.”

Marbi said that greater Knysna communities are fortunate to live within the unfenced borders of the SANParks managed Garden Route National Park. “I believe as a local community we can have a positive impact on tourism in our area. Supporting local tourism business yes, but there is so much more we can do. Value and respect our natural resources. Understand the impact of our actions on the tourism industry, and ultimately jobs in the area. Do we understand that if we do anything to impact the water quality of the Knysna estuary that can have a ripple effect that influences visitor numbers, and jobs? That if we do not care about the cleanliness of our town, or if we damage infrastructure and facilities that can also have a negative effect? Knysna is known for its natural assets – beaches, forests, the estuary and mountains in the back. Are we doing enough to look after our natural resources? Do we get involved in initiatives to counter pollution, litter, and sustainable use of resources? We must appreciate an acknowledge everyone’s efforts in the industry. We must invest in the future by facilitating training, creating new opportunities and foster an understanding for what tourism is doing, and can do for our community.”

He said people should be encouraged to be tourists in their own backyard. “Make an effort to get to know the people and the different areas of greater Knysna. Explore the nooks and crannies of the Garden Route National Park. Experience the ‘magic’ of Knysna by “connecting” to nature.”

“It is only if we know our area and what it has to offer that we can really understand the opportunities available, the niche tourism markets we can focus on, and the facilities needed. Work with us to create a resilient tourism economy in Knysna, for all our residents. Get involved!”

Here is a list of activities and events planned for Tourism month in the greater Knysna area – and a great opportunity to get involved.

17 September
International Coastal Clean-up Day and “Spring Clean” Knysna
Time: 9am – 11am There are different teams that will tackle different areas all over Knysna – to join them please contact Teresa at Ocean Odyssey on info@oceanodyssey.co.za for more info.

12-16 September
SA National Parks week – this is a good reason to go out and explore the Garden Route National Park! Read more here

24 September 2022
Urban X brought to you by Remax Coastal
A fun trail run starting with 10 easy obstacles and now including colour stations. For more info Email: coyoteeventsandpromotions@gmail.com

Battle of the Buskers
Celebrate National Braai Day at the Village Green in Sedgefield with arts & crafts, food stalls, and of course – a braai!
Email: olivier.debra@gmail.com

27 September
Knysna 1-Hour “Amazing Race”
You and three teammates could be the lucky winners of four action cameras when participating in this timed exercise on World Tourism Day, 27 September 2022. To enter send your name, surname, and contact to info@visitknysna.co.za before 20 September 2022 with the subject: Amazing Knysna Race to receive further instructions.

30 September
Hollard Daredevil Run
Friday 30 September will see thousands of brave men in purple Speedos take to their streets to run cancer “outta their hoods” anywhere in South Africa – in our area a race is starting at Café Vienna in Sedgefield. All proceeds going to CANSA and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa.
To enter or for more info email rochellevorster2@gmail.com

Knysna Art Society breathes life back into historic town centre

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

The #knysnaartproject has been back in action, this time bringing some colour and character to Knysna’s historic CBD with a new mural inspired by local author Dalene Matthee’s novel “Kringe in ‘n Bos”.

The canvas for the latest project was the back of the old Town Hall – a 25metre-long strip of wall that, in recent years, came to be known as the “Covid wall”. It was here that people spent hours queuing for their vaccinations during the pandemic.

Now the works of sixty artists have transformed this bleak space into one of hope and happiness. Created over the ten days of the recent Knysna Oyster Festival, the “Kringe in ‘n Bos” mural is a celebration of all that makes the Greater Knysna area so unique. Artists worked individually but alongside one another on circular artworks (“Kringe”) of their chosen iconically-Knysna subjects. From extreme close-ups of the endemic fauna and flora that can be found in the ancient forests to views of the estuary and all that brings life to its waters, each of the eighty-one artworks is a passion-infused personal tribute to a place that inspires at every turn.

“Dalene Matthee’s forest books illustrate just how enchanted she was by the Knysna forests and the surrounding areas. As artists living in Knysna we too seek much of our inspiration from the natural wonder that surrounds us in this very special place. We feel privileged to live and work here and the mural shows the rest of the world why,” said Helena Gerber, Chairperson of Knysna Arts Society.

The artwork is the latest installment in the #knysnaartproject, an ambitious and exciting collaboration between Visit Knysna (the greater Knysna area’s destination marketing organisation), the Knysna Municipality and the Knysna Arts Society. Five other public outdoor artworks have already been installed across the Greater Knysna area.

As it happens, this time the majority of the contributing artists were women – in fact, only six were men. “The Kringe in ‘n Bos mural was created as a tribute to a great woman who loved Knysna by a group of Knysna’s great women. So we are reminded once again of the powerful role of women in the past, present and future of our town. Wherever I look, I see women working as individuals, in teams, in organisations to create real change and improvement in the world we live in. It’s no wonder we celebrate them with Women’s Month,” said Councilor Sharon Sabbagh, MMC for Finance and Tourism at Knysna Municipality.

Executive Mayor of Knysna Lavael Davis spoke at the official launch on Tuesday 17 August 2022. “The Knysna Art Project has brought the winds of rejuvenation to our town. It’s contagious. Our residents are out on the streets getting involved in projects and initiatives that are having real impact and building back our identity as a destination. But, more importantly, working together we are being reminded of what it feels like to be part of a community with a positive attitude and a common goal.”

Knysna officially the Cape’s Best ‘Dorpie’

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Knysna has just been named the Best Dorpie in this year’s Kfm Best of the Cape Awards. “Thousands of listeners voted for their favourite candidate in the popular radio station’s competition,” said Knysna Executive Mayor Levael Davis. “And Knysna is clearly everyone’s favourite dorpie.”

“Every person who lives in the greater Knysna area, or who has visited us, knows that our area deserves this accolade,” he continued. “With our incredible natural beauty, rich history, fantastic tourism offerings and friendly people we have won the hearts of South Africans and international travellers. Knysna offers something to everyone, and everyone loves Knysna.”

The town was nominated when the competition began mid-July and received the most public votes in its category. Aside from being named the Best Dorpie in Kfm’s Best of the Cape Awards, Knysna was listed as the 19th Most Loved Destination Around the World on the 2021 Tourism Sentiment Index. “This was also based on public opinion, but on a global scale,” said Davis. “It is clear that it’s not just our residents who think that the greater Knysna area is amazing, but everyone else does too.”

Kfm is the Cape’s biggest commercial radio station with more than 1,1 million listeners tuning in across the province and, thanks to online streaming, the rest of South Africa and the world. The other nominees in the category Best Dorpie were George, Montagu, Robertson and Langebaan.

“Thank you to each and every listener who voted for Knysna. We sincerely appreciate you’re your support and your love for our dorpie,” he concluded. “Congratulations, Knysna. And congratulations to the residents of the greater Knysna area. You are who make Knysna great. Together we can build on this recognition to boost tourism to our area and to build an even better, more beautiful, inclusive, innovative and inspired Knysna.”

MAKE YOUR FINGERS DO THE TALKING – VOTE FOR KNYSNA!!

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

KFM’s annual “Best of the Cape” initiative is currently running and the greater Knysna area has no less than 3 finalists! With more than 1 million listeners the exposure for Knysna is fantastic – being the winner of the category will just multiply the exposure so much more, and we need YOU to make that happen!

PLEASE VOTE – the closing date is at midnight on the 3rd of August.

“BEST DORPIE”
Knysna is a finalist in the “Best Dorpie” category along with 4 other finalists, George, Langebaan, Montagu & Robertson. I mean, the other “dorpies” are nice, but does not come close to us, right?
https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/categories/best-dorpie
Vote here: https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/form#top

“BEST LOCAL CRAFT GIN”
The award winning Knysna Gin is famous for using a mix of 9 botanicals, including the iconic Knysna Num Num Berry. It’s unique flavour is due to the traditional distillery process with a copper and flame pot, and of course we all love the Friday afternoon Happy Hour. Let’s make this the top Craft Gin in the Cape!
https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/categories/best-local-craft-gin

Vote here: https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/form#top

BEST GUEST HOUSE
Finalist Myoli Beach Lodge was nominated for location, offering the best prices, best experience, friendly staff and extra effort by the hosts to create a memorable stay.
https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/categories/best-guest-house
Vote here: https://kfm.co.za/bestofthecape/form#top

Communities, Commitment and the CCPP Group Lions Karoo to Coast

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Before Covid turned the world on its head the weather did the same to the most recent edition of the CCPP Group Lions Karoo to Coast. It turned what is usually a challenging but enjoyable race into an odyssey of epic proportions. The next two years saw pandemic enforced postponements, which means that the 2022 edition is eagerly anticipated. 3 600 of a possible 4 000 entries have already been sold, so riders wishing to take part on the 25th of September should enter soon to avoid disappointment.

Absence, as the saying goes, makes the heart grow fonder. Which is certainly true for one of South Africa’s largest point to point mountain bike races. Now in its 22nd year the race from Uniondale to Knysna, along the iconic Prince Alfred’s Pass, is not only one of the country’s oldest mountain bike races but also one of the most well supported.

The last edition, in 2019, was perhaps the most memorable yet. Perfect years blend into one with the course of time; but nobody is forgetting high wind, torrential rain and hail anytime soon. Nor are the riders who were evacuated from the route forgetting the massive effort the communities, of Knysna and Uniondale, went to in order to save the day.

“I for one will never forget 2019,” Zandile Meneses, the CCPP Group Lions Karoo to Coast race director for the past 20 years, noted. “I’ve never experienced anything like that in an event before. We had to call the manager of PEP in Uniondale, to open the shop so we could buy every blanket in the store, as well as the majority of Knysna’s stock too. We then enlisted just about every taxi service in Knysna to help evacuate riders from the course. The sports fields, at the finish, turned into a quagmire and it even hailed briefly at Simola. It was a wild day!”

The successful evacuation of riders off the 96 kilometre course was down to the involvement of the community. Residents and business owners of Uniondale and Knysna have been pivotal from the inaugural edition, but it is in times of difficulty that their input is most keenly felt. The event’s absence from the calendar, for two years, was just as acutely experienced; especially by the Lions Club beneficiaries. Charities like Sightfirst, the South African Guide Dog Association and other urgent needs in the Garden Route and Klein Karoo community rely on the funds raised by the race to help finance their operations.

Although the route is largely the same as it was 22 years ago, for the inaugural edition, the ever-changing surface quality of Prince Alfred’s Pass provides diversity to the challenge. One section which has become significantly easier over the years though is the Ou Wapad. Climbing out of Uniondale used to be a tricky affair, where line choice was key. That changed 5 years ago however, when the wagon trail was graded. Still, it has not helped anyone better the course record which has stood for many years.

Perhaps 2022 is the year that the record falls… though the weather conditions on race day will have a significant say in how quickly the course is completed. Tail winds through the climbs and kloofs of the Outeniqua Mountains would blow the fastest riders home to Knysna at a better pace. While also helping the less competitive members of the field; but as anyone who took part in 2019 knows, it does not pay to bet on the riding conditions too far in advance. The only safe assumption is that it will not be as wild as the last time the race was held.

Another unique aspect of the event is the dinner which the women of Uniondale cook for the 1 600 odd participants who stay in the Klein Karoo town the night before the race. The usually sleepy village comes alive for the CCPP Group Lions Karoo to Coast and nearly half of the riders come together the night before for a locally made supper. It is a brilliant way to reconnect with old friends and riding acquaintances, as well as to get into the spirit of things before race day.

This September that reconnection will be particularly poignant. After three long years and with a memorable last time out to reflect upon the mood in Uniondale is sure to be electric. To join the celebration and the ride by visiting www.karootocoast.com.

Families Spoilt for Choice at the 2022 Knysna Oyster Festival

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

The 39th Knysna Oyster Festival is kicking off and with less than three weeks to go town is abuzz with preparations! The festival, taking place from 1-10 July, falls within the South African winter school holidays and here are multiple reasons why it is the perfect midyear break for families!

Get into “gamer-mode” for the exciting “Oyster Hunt” that is being launched for the first time this year. Expect daily prizes, a leader board and a grand prize on Sunday, the 10th of July. Just download the App, find the map and start looking for the oysters positioned all over Knysna!

The “Play in Nature Kids Pass” at Blackwaters River Lodge is your ticket to some awesome outdoor adventures! Think “Pitch & Putt” golf, canoeing, stand-up-paddling, grass volleyball and old-fashioned sack races! Buy a “Day pass” for one day, or more – 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 10 July.

The Riverwood Oyster Festival Kids Club from 4 –9 July will run a daily programme for kids. Activities include “Make & bake”, Arts & Crafts, games, and play. Drop and go for a day of fun in a secure environment at the Riverwood Knysna Primary school.

Want to introduce your children to the magical world of tea & spices? Take them to an interesting talk and learn about spices and teas at The Spice & Tea House: Spice talks are daily at 12pm, and Tea talks are daily at 10am and 3pm.

Here are some more activities ideal for young (and old) festino’s:

First weekend:
1 July
• Pirate Treasure Hunt – dress up like a pirate and join a treasure cruise on the Knysna Lagoon
• Miss Pearl 22 – do you have a budding young beauty queen? Why not enter her for the 2022 Miss Pearl competition for all age groups?

2 July
• Open Rapid chess tournament – avid chess player? Why not test your skills at the 6 round Swiss pairing tournaments at the Knysna High School?
• Tree of Life Sanctuary Gatherings – Chocolate making, sacred singing, estate dance DJ and a magical musical theatre show produced by Serendipity Sun Services and performed by Lyra Sami at Blackwaters River Lodge.

3 July
• Sunrise Trail Run – a 7km trail run for old and young at the Garden Route Trail Park in Barrington.
• Knysna Cycle Tour – a 12km option is ideal for younger cyclists!
FREEBIE alert – If you enter for the Cycle Tour you get a FREE pass for a week for the Garden Route Trail Park AND the Fynbos-on-Sea Activity Centre!
• FUN Pumptrack Eliminator – as much fun to watch as to take part, all ages.
• Harbour2Heads Lagoon Challenge – the canoe race from the Knysna Yacht Club to the Heads include a 2km option for younger paddlers.
• Totties Country Market – this market in Rheenendal offers art, crafts, food, model train rides, kid’s activities and a great secure play area. Great entertainment for the whole family!
• The Farm Leisure Market – set in a magical setting it takes place on farmland in Old Cape Road, less than 10min from Knysna. The Farm has a wonderful kids play area, a hiking track, gravel cycle tracks for old and young, a fabulous pizza oven (and pizzas of course) – and great coffee! On Market days informal stalls set up all over with a vast and eclectic selection of products that include fresh produce, delectable food items, clothing, and crafts.

Midweek:
4 July
• Kids Craft Workshop – Make your own dreamcatcher – bring the kids to make a gorgeous dream catcher at The Queen, a safe and secure art studio. Drop off and go, or parents are welcome to join!
• Guided Tour of Rock Pools – Join the SANParks Rangers for a fun, educational outing in our pristine rock pools at the Knysna Heads. Explore and learn about life in the pools.
• ASWD Cross country races & relays – from age 8yrs and older – these races will take place in the natural terrain in and around Loerie Park.

5 July
• Guided Tour of mudflats around Leisure Isle – a fun, educational outing for the whole family.
• Kids Craft Workshop – Paint your own holiday dinner set – wonderful, colourful fun at The Queen, a safe and secure art studio. Drop off and go, or parents are welcome to join!

6 July
• Family Litter Clean-up – join SANParks Honorary Rangers in doing your bit for Knysna and the estuary.
• “Pitch & Putt” Family Golf Tournament – interactive golf day on the Mashie course at Blackwaters River Lodge – with drinks for both adults and kids at each green.
• Kids Craft Workshop – Make & paint your own flower press – bring the kids for some art fun they can take home, and use! Workshop is at The Queen, a safe and secure art studio. Drop off and go, or parents are welcome to join!
• “It’s a pity I did not bring any swords” book reading – listen to local author Martin Hatcheul talk about his book – a book about life in Knysna, now and then – both the book and the talk appeals to audiences of all ages!

7 July
• KnysnaX Trail Series Winter Run – KnysnaX is hosting a 6km run for the whole family. A fun scenic trail run for the entire family! The routes include spectacular bridge crossings and breathtaking scenery all along the Knysna Railway.
• Mother & Child Pilates – Want to introduce your kids to Pilates? Why not join Pure Posture for a fun Pilates session that will appeal to old and young!

Second weekend:
8 July
• Pitch & Putt Family Golf Tournament – Interactive golf day on the Mashie course at Blackwaters River Lodge – with drinks for both adults and kids at each green.
• Pirate Treasure Hunt – Dress up like a pirate and join a treasure cruise on the Knysna Lagoo.
• Knysna Elephant Park Carnival – Kids go FREE on our Meet the Herd Tour!! Free entrance for all to the carnival!! Jumping castle and outside playground, Bean Bag Toss, Face painting, Ring Toss, Pin the tail on the Elephant, Ball knockdown and Sack Race.
• Totties Country Market – This market in Rheenendal offers art, crafts, food, model train rides, kids activities and a great secure play area. Great entertainment for the whole family!

Find out more on our website, www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za

See you and your family in Knysna!

For further information visit www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za, email info@knysnaoysterfestival.co.za or call Visit Knysna on 063 649 1057.
Stay on top of things by following us on social media – Facebook (@knysnaoysterfestival); Instagram (@knysnaoysterfestival) and Twitter (@oysterfestival).
#KnysnaOysterFestival #KnysnaOysterFestival2022 #VisitKnysna

Issued on behalf of the Knysna Oyster Festival by:
KnysnaPR
Nicci Rousseau-Schmidt
Cell: 083 299 7777
Email: nicci@knysnapr.co.za / Jacques: jacques@writetouch.co.za

Knysna be on the lookout: The 2022 Sasol Solar Challenge is coming to your town!

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

The 2022 Sasol Solar Challenge (SSC) will make its eighth control-stop at Knysna High School ground on the 15th of September, after travelling through 16 towns from Johannesburg.

“Each control-stop has an optional loop of road, which teams can drive their solar cars around as many times as they like, racking up more kilometres, and each loop requires a five minute control-stop before completion,” said Robert Walker, Owner and Director of the Sasol Solar Challenge. “The mandatory 30-minute stop is an opportunity for teams to refresh, swap drivers, do repairs, and strategise. It will also be an opportunity for the community of Knysna to come out and support the teams before the event moves to other communities, and subsequently the finish line.”

The control-stop will incorporate a school activation programme where learners in the community will have an opportunity to engage with the solar car teams and view the solar cars. Some of the learners will be showcasing their sustainable solutions developed to address mobility challenges faced by the community.
“The school activation programme is an experiential platform to influence and inspire scholars across South Africa to pursue careers in STEM. The overall offering of the Sasol Solar Challenge is an extension of Sasol’s investment into the youth of South Africa. Through the Sasol Solar Challenge, Sasol is directly investing in the engineers, scientists and thought leaders of tomorrow,” said Nozipho Mbatha, Senior Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorships at Sasol.

The Sasol Solar Challenge takes place every two years, bringing together university and high school teams, and even private engineers who have manufactured fully functioning, roadworthy cars powered only by the sun. It runs on public roads, sharing space with trucks and regular traffic, and passes through multiple small towns.
Knysna Executive Mayor, Levael Davis said the town is excited and looking forward to hosting the Sasol Solar Challenge.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Sasol Solar Challenge. The event will expose school learners and the entire community of Knysna to new and interesting technologies,” said Davis. “It’s important for our community and the entire country to always look for innovative ways of harnessing the power of our planet in a sustainable and energy efficient way. The Sasol Solar Challenge is encouraging our youth to do just that. The event also stimulates an interest in STEM education amongst our learners, which will open doors to further training in the field of STEM.”

The 2022 route from Johannesburg to Cape Town will include five provinces, 14 towns and more than 20 communities. New towns include Brakpan, Trompsburg, Willowmore, Kirkwood, Jeffreys Bay, Riversdale and Caledon. The event is also bringing new local and international teams including those competing for the first time in South Africa and in a solar challenge.

Spectators are welcome at all stops, and more information on the route and the teams can be found at:
https://www.solarchallenge.org.za/ or on social media: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

A Holy Grail for Trail Runners

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Are you a trail runner? Then Knysna is where you have to be this July! With four trail runs taking place over the 10-day Knysna Oyster Festival in iconic surroundings it is fast becoming a “holy grail for trail runners”.

Taking place from 1-10 July this year, the Festival is known for its bucket list sport events like the 37th Knysna Forest Marathon and Half Marathon and the 2-day Knysna Cycle Tour. These events happen in the forest part of Knysna’s “natural playground” – the indigenous Knysna forests framed by the mountains in the back and the Knysna lagoon and oceans on the other side.

By their nature trail runs take people to “off the grid” areas, and the races happening during the Festival do that in spectacular style!

Saturday 2 July
The Featherbed Trail Run
“Profoundly more than just a run.” That is how race organisers Magnetic South describe the event. The adventure begins with a remote start on the other side of the famous Knysna railway line. Runners will walk across and start on the reserve. From here the route follows the dramatic coastline and traverses the Western Head to end down the “stairs to heaven” at the Featherbed Nature Reserve. There are two options – the 21 km GREAT WHITE or the 11km SEAHORSE.

The reserve is not usually accessible for visitors other than on a guided tour, so this is also a great opportunity to see usually inaccessible areas of the Reserve. Plus – your entry includes a ferry trip on the Knysna lagoon, a buffet lunch and live music!

Click here for more information.

Sunday 3 July
The Garden Route Trail Park Trail Run
A few years ago Barrington was just a farming area known for the Big Tree Nursery, beautiful vistas and herds of cows. That all changed when the Garden Route Trail Park opened. A hotspot on any adventure seeker’s list, the Park boasts a seriously hot pump track and a variety of single route tracks in valleys and mountains around the park.

This run is taking place on one of the Trail Park’s existing routes. It is a 7km fun run that will appeal to everyone, even those with basic fitness levels. The Trail Park will also be the venue for Day 2 of the Knysna Cycle Tour, so if you have a cycling buddy and want to be part of the action, this is a great option!

Click here for more information.

Thursday 7 July
The KnysnaX Trail Series Winter Run
A choice of a 6km, 18km or 25km trail run along the beautiful Knysna railway with spectacular views of the Goukamma River and Knysna Lagoon. The routes include spectacular bridge crossings and breath-taking scenery all along the Knysna railway line.

The new 25km route is for the serious trail blazers and one not to be missed. The 6km fun run is a fun scenic trail for the whole family. Children are welcome to enter, but must be accompanied by an adult.

The KnysnaX Trail series contributes to the Western Heads Goukamma Conservancy and included in the entry fee is a small fee that goes towards the alien clearing and conservancy of the extremely endangered Knysna fynbos.

Click here for more information.

Sunday 10 July
The Houtkapper Trail Run – ‘There’s gold in them thar hills’

The Goudveld Forest Reserve, in the lush Afromontane forests of the Garden Route National Park, is the home of the Houtkapper Trail Run. Only 22km from Knysna, it is nestled in the lower slopes of the Outeniqua Mountains.

In 1887 James Hopper discovered alluvial gold along the Karatara River. Later, in 1887, more discoveries were made in the nearby Millwood Forest. The evidence of gold mining is still visible and let’s agree, it is not often you get a chance to “run through gold”!

The area has a magnificent variety of fynbos, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammal species. The route includes the Sour Flats and the Millwood forests, and runners can choose between a 27km, 15km and 9km start.

Who knows, you may just find your own nugget along the way! 😉

Click here for more information.

See you in Knysna in July!

The 2022 Festival

1 – 10 July

Cycle – Trail Running – Running – Golf – Art – Fun Activities

Programme – www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za

Facebook: @KnysnaOysterFestival Instagram: @knysnaoysterfestival Twitter: @oysterfestival

What’s in a name?

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

The Knysna Oyster Festival is a household name in South Africa. But just how did the Festival start, and why is it called the Knysna Oyster Festival?

It all started as the “Winter Festival” in 1983 to bring business to town during the quiet winter period, and since then it has grown to a 10-day Festival that attracts thousands of people to Knysna.

From Winter Festival To Oyster Festival
Oyster farming started in the Knysna lagoon at the beginning of the 80’s and it was not long before it was named “The Knysna Oyster Festival”, about 30 years ago.

The cultivated oysters were popular with locals and visitors alike, but the operation was never really viable financially, socially, or environmentally. Conditions in the lagoon were not exactly suitable for oyster farming and oyster beds often silted up, and when permits were not renewed in 2010, all cultivated oysters were removed from the lagoon.

There may not be any oysters in the Knysna lagoon anymore, but the coastline around Knysna have ample coastal oysters – born and bred in the Knysna area! “Salty, sweet, buttery, briny” – there are many ways to describe an oyster. Tasting one can be a life changing experience – you either order another 12 immediately, or you decide “never again”. In Knysna, and certainly at the Knysna Oyster Festival, we always order “12 more please”! It is a mecca for oyster lovers – these days they come with delectable toppings – oyster ceviche, Asian oysters, Sushi oysters, Panko fried oysters – gourmet oysters for the oyster gourmands!

And cultivated oysters? They are still available, and most are brought in from Port Elizabeth and Agulhas. Thousands of oysters are sold during the Knysna Oyster Festival and cultivated oysters are key to ensure the sustainability of the wild oysters along our coastline.

So, when in Knysna, keep on trying both. And celebrate the KNYSNA OYSTER FESTIVAL in all its glory, whether its sport with oysters on the side, or oysters with sport on the side! Or even – heaven forbid – no oysters! We’re joking! Maybe.. 😊

See you in Knysna in July!

The 2022 Festival
1 – 10 July
Cycle – Trail Running – Running – Golf – Art – Fun Activities

Schedule of events – www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za

Facebook: @KnysnaOysterFestival Instagram: @knysnaoysterfestival Twitter: @oysterfestival

If You Really Want The World As Your Oyster… Knysna Is Where It’s At!

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

Grab your calendar and save the date as Knysna welcomes back one of the highlights on the South African festival calendar. The Knysna Oyster Festival will once again offer visitors an exciting array of events to partake in from 1 to 10 July 2022. 

Festival manager, Andrew Finn describes the festival as a feast for sport lovers with the programme boasting of several cycling events, a variety of trail runs, a Lagoon Mile Swim as well as golf, soccer, netball, rugby, boxing, and basketball matches.

Oy’ and when you thought it couldn’t get better than that… he also said for those that prefer “exercise” of a different kind, the Knysna Wine Festival will be back, and of course, the Knysna oyster will once again have the main stage. “Wild oysters are harvested from the coastline around Knysna and will be served in a variety of ways – raw, cooked or steamed – delectable concoctions or plain with a dash of lemon. It is an oyster lovers’ dream”, said Finn. 

A longtime favourite on the programme, the 37th Knysna Marathon and Half Marathon, will take place on the 9th of July. Entries are open and the event is filling up fast. Described as “one of the most beautiful races in South Africa”, it has a unique start in the middle of the indigenous Knysna forest and participants are transported to the start by local taxis.

The natural paradise and picturesque town of Knysna was recently ranked #19 on the list “Leading Places: The 100 Most Loved Destinations Around the World for 2021”. Undeniably the jewel of the Garden Route nestled on the banks of a breathtakingly beautiful lagoon, the town is looking forward to showing off its tranquil natural assets and welcoming sports enthusiasts, families, food, and wine lovers, as well as adrenalin junkies from all over South Africa for a one-of-a-kind winter holiday fun. 

Cllr Sharon Sabbagh, member of the Knysna Municipality’s mayoral committee for finance and economy said that they are excited to welcome Oyster Festival fans, new and old, to Knysna. “I call on our local businesses, restaurants, accommodation establishments, musicians and artists, arts and craft vendors and residents to get behind the organisers and participate, and help where you can. Working together we can ensure a successful festival which will benefit our town and our communities. We need the buy-in and support of everyone to ensure the longevity and success of the Festival.”

Want to be part of the action and host an event or activity? Just complete the event application form on the festival website and forward it to events@knysnaoysterfestival.co.za. 

For further information visit www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za, email info@knysnaoysterfestival.co.za or call Visit Knysna on 063 649 1057.

Stay on top of things by following us on social media – Facebook (@knysnaoysterfestival); Instagram (@knysnaoysterfestival) and Twitter (@oysterfestival).

We’ve got our ‘oys’ on you and hope to see you on the oyster side!  

Issued on behalf of the Knysna Oyster Festival by:

KnysnaPR

Nicci Rousseau-Schmidt

Cell: 083 299 7777

Email: nicci@knysnapr.co.za