General Information:

Set on a private 3 acre landscaped garden, with dramatic views of the world famous Knysna Heads, is the St James, one of the finest Five Star Country House Hotels on the Garden Route. Attention to detail is the order of the day at St James with the highest standard of service. Guests simply relax and make the most of the many facilities available. This Hotel has earned its place amongst the Leading Independent Hotels of Southern Africa.

The St James is in the heart of the Garden Route directly on the shores of the famous Knysna Lagoon (the largest natural Estuary in South Africa) well known for its abundant marine, plant and bird life. The Hotel is located within a short distance from the town centre of this quaint historical seaside village and is nestled in the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains. The St. James of Knysna is an exclusive, owner run, five star Country House Hotel uniquely situated directly on the shores of the famous Knysna Lagoon.

Accommodation:

The suites have been luxuriously furnished and styled for ultimate comfort, most with uninterrupted views of the Lagoon. Each suite has a superb bathroom, a spacious lounge, satellite television and telephone.

The Manor - At the Manor there is the luxurious George Rex Suite and the Lady Anne Suite, both with large lagoon facing balconies. Two Deluxe Garden facing Suites, spacious Double Room, elegant dining room, main lounge with Mezzanine Lounge, Paquita Bar and swimming pool are also located there. The Courtyard - Here 4 Superior Suites, 3 of which are Lagoon facing and all with balconies are located on the upper floor and 3 Deluxe Lagoon facing Suites and two Junior Suites nestle around the Mediterranean courtyard with a private swimming pool.

Dining:

St James Restaurant - The hotel boasts a superb dining room and well stocked wine cellar. Country style breakfasts, light lunches, teas and snacks are also served on the various patios and terraces. The Paquita Bar, with its lagoon facing patio is a warm and friendly meeting place. The spectacular and panoramic views of Knysna and the lagoon can be experienced whilst exquisite cuisine is served in the candlelit dining room. Guest can then relax and unwind in front of a crackling log fire in the main lounge whilst savouring a fine port from the hotel’s cellar.

Activities:

Knysna is one of the Garden Route´s best known travel destinations. Situated between lush forests and the shores of the peaceful estuary it offers many activities and attractions to a wide variety of people.The Knysna area consists out of Knysna, Sedgefield, Brenton, Noetzie, Rheenendal, Belvidere and Buffalo Bay. The area is one of the most scenic in the world and offers beaches, lakes and lush forests to play in.

NATURAL PARADISE - In Knysna, nature quite literally knocks on your front door. The town nestles on the shores of an estuary fed by rivers originating in the Outeniqua Mountains and it is surrounded by lush indigenous forests. This exceptional nature’s playground of beaches, lakes, mountains, forests and rivers offers an unforgettable holiday.  Whether you’re an adventurous type or simply like it lolling around in the sun, Knysna has it all. 

OUR ANIMAL KINGDOM - Knysna boasts an array of unique species including the Knysna seahorse, the famous Knysna Loerie, the endangered dwarf chameleon and Brenton Blue Butterfly. The area also hosts some of the biggest wildlife creatures - the Humpback and Southern Right whales visit the coastline during the months of May and September to breed in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and Knysna is also home to the only forest elephants in South Africa. 

ADVENTURE AND SPORT - Come and play in the forests and dive into outdoor adventures like horse riding, hiking, yachting, fishing and canoeing. For a pure adrenalin rush get into the more extreme sports of abseiling, paragliding, scuba diving or water skiing and some of the best mountain bike routes in the country. Knysna has something for everyone - from the very young to the well matured and for every size, shape and temperament.

MECCA FOR THE GOURMAND - Whether it’s shopping, food or culture. In and around Knysna one will find a selection of fine restaurants, activities, cultural and heritage experiences, adventure and natural encounters to match your mood, age, physique and budget. Do not miss out on Knysna’s famous oysters or beer from local micro brewery, Mitchell’s. Shopping include a quaint Waterfront shopping complex and authentic African traders. Enjoy a Sundowner cruise, water-skiing or sightseeing on the Knysna Lagoon from the private jetty.