I am always on the look out for something that is exciting and different on a holiday. I hate staying at boring, big hotels – it makes me feel like I could be away on business – and so I love finding those quirky, unusual or just quaint and well loved boutique hotels.
We left Hermanus after breakfast and decided to take a slow and leisurely drive up to Knysna along the coastal route. This journey usually takes about 4 hours by car, but we decided to stop at a few of the lovely little spots on route and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
On arrival at Falcons View Manor, it felt like we were stepping back in time, to a bygone era, a romantic and age old time. Set in a commanding position on a hill top overlooking Knysna village, the whole setting was just perfect! The house was originally built by Charles Thesen as a testament to his wealth gained through the timber and logging industry which was prominent in Knysna at the turn of the century, it was known as “Hill House” and was a classic example of superb Victoria architecture. With large wrap around verandas, original period fittings, high ceilings, gleaming yellowwood and lounges graced by elegant Victorian fireplaces you feel as though you have just stepped back to the Victoria era. I just needed the big hooped ballgown! I loved it. It certainly invited a feeling of romance in.
But, with all the “oldy worldy” charm around, there was no way that I was going to compromise on my modern comforts – and again, this Manor came through – all the rooms are beautifully decorated and all have satellite TV and all the other mod cons expected of a luxury hotel. With only 9 bedrooms on the estate – we were treated like royalty. As we arrived quite late in the afternoon, we spent our time just relaxing in the garden watching the vervet monkeys playing in the trees. We then gathered up enough energy to move into the bar for sundowner cocktails. Cheers!
We had dinner at the Chefs Table restaurant, which is a true gourmet dinning experience. It really was a hard day’s work!
The next day, presented with a multitude of options to do in Knysna – including golf at no less than 4 excellent golf courses and bungi jumping (help!), we decided to cop up for a less active activity and wandered around town exploring the many arts and crafts shops. I was almost tempted to buy one of those little wooden Knysna Loerie birds – they are supposed to bring you good luck! Of course, we had to taste the famous “wild Oysters” of Knysna and so we had lunch at the Knysna Quay. Late that afternoon, we boarded a ferry for a sundowner cruise around the lagoon. It is a bit touristy, but the views are well worth it. You can sit and sip champagne watching while the sun sets behind the Knysna heads.
The next day, after a hearty “South African” breakfast and much fond farewelling we set off on the rest of our travels of South Africa, heading for Port Elizabeth.
I had great fun at the Falcons View Manor, and I hope that you do to.
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