Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Exploring Knysna & The Knysna Heads


by Janet Middleton


The Knysna Heads
Photo: Digital Photo Library

A highly popular day trip for visitors to Plettenberg Bay is the little town of Knysna. Surrounding a large, serene estuary and lagoon, Knysna is only 35km from Plettenberg Bay and 20km from Fynbos Ridge. Driving from Plettenberg Bay into Knysna, you will find yourself in a different world.

The Knysna Heads
Where Plettenberg Bay is known for sandy beaches and gentle waves, Knysna is famous for the beautiful lagoon and “Knysna Heads”- two dramatic headlands between which the estuary joins the sea. 

The Knysna Heads
Photo: Liz Phillips
Knysna is certainly food for the imagination and is surrounded by indigenous forest. This charming town lends itself to tales of “pirate’s coves” and undiscovered territory. One can easily imagine the first sailors navigating The Heads into the lagoon. Not much has changed.

Originally used as a port for timber transportation, Knysna is now a popular holiday destination for South Africans and international visitors. The landscape is dominated by The Heads, which are popular for nature walks and hikes. The East Head is also a residential area and is easily accessed from town. The West Head is a privately-owned nature reserve, Featherbed and is only accessible by ferry. Walks are conducted by knowledgeable, specialist guides and are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

The Knysna HeadsThere are many other excellent hiking opportunities into the Knysna forests, but a visit to the Knysna Heads is an absolute must-see.

The Knysna Heads


The Knysna Heads
Take the ferry across the lagoon to the Featherbed Reserve
The Knysna Heads
Photo:  Amy Phillips