Last Updated on July 11, 2023 by Lauren Melnick
There’s something magical about the Garden Route. It’s a place in South Africa that keeps calling my name, and I often find myself there at least once a year.
In 2019, I went on four road trips through the area 🤯 and I still haven’t crossed off everything from my bucket list.
On my most recent visit, I found the perfect base for exploring more of Knysna, Amanzi Lodge.
A four-star getaway set against the picturesque backdrop of the Leisure Isle, it’s a place that beckons you to explore and put down your phone.
Whether you’re catching a tan at the pool, kayaking across the lagoon, or catching up on those Netflix shows you’ve been putting off.
If you’re looking for a dash of luxury and adventure for your next trip to Knysna, read on for a full review of Amanzi Lodge.
Psst…Want more South Africa travel tips? Check out these other posts:
- An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)
- 10+ Incredible Things to Do in Plettenberg Bay [WARNING: High FOMO Levels]
- 12 Secluded Cabins Near Cape Town That Are Perfect for Escaping Reality
- 10+ Spectacular Road Trips in South Africa You Can’t Miss!
- Staying at Whispering Oaks in George, South Africa
- Staying at Nima Lodge in Wilderness, South Africa
Table of Contents
How to Get to Amanzi Lodge
One of the most important considerations when choosing a place to stay in Knysna (or the Garden Route in general) is the location.
How can you strategically place yourself close to the swooning natural scenery, delicious restaurants, and attractions without having to drive for hours?
For me, Amanzi Lodge ticked all the boxes.
Situated on the pristine shores of the idyllic Knysna Lagoon, you’re mere footsteps from exploring some of the best things to do in the Garden Route.
And getting here? It’s a journey and adventure all rolled into one.
If you’re starting your road trip from Cape Town, it’s a 6-hour drive without stopping…
…But where’s the fun in that?
Turn it into a full-blown holiday, and break up the drive with a stop in Swellendam.
But if you’re short on time and don’t want to sit in a car for hours, the quickest way to get to Amanzi Lodge is to fly into George Airport, hire a car (I recommend Avis), and you’ll arrive at Knysna’s Leisure Isle within one hour.
Read More: An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)
Getting Around The Leisure Isle
You don’t need to jump in your car if you want to explore further afield.
Amanzi Lodge offers free bicycle rentals to all guests. Hop on one after breakfast, and spend a lazy morning meandering across the lagoon and exploring the nearby coffee shops.
Once you get back, you can swap your bicycle for a kayak. Grab your partner and paddle across the lagoon for an hour or two.
It’s on the house. 😉
The Lagoon Facing Suites
Walking into my lagoon-facing suite, my jaw dropped.
The room had not one, but TWO en-suite bathrooms, complete with a gorgeous claw foot bath and super king-sized bed.
TBH, I internally squealed and had an impromptu dance party after the staff dropped off my bags.
But the real showstopper?
The balcony.
With a private deck overlooking the lagoon, the sunsets from up here were amazing, and sitting out here with my G&T was a highlight of my trip.
And for my fellow digital nomads and remote workers, I’m happy to report the suite comes with a dedicated desk, lightning-fast internet, and room service (a must-have for when client calls start to drag on and your stomach is rumbling).
The whole suite feels more like an ultra-luxe apartment than a hotel room. It has a light, homey feel that kick starts vacation mode and powers down real-world problems.
The Amenities
- Lindt chocolates
- King-sized bed
- Two en-suite bathrooms with a tub and a double shower
- Coffee and tea station
- Free and fast WiFi
- 32″ LCD TV, 5.1 Sound System
- Satellite TV
- Aircon
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Complimentary Charlotte Rhys luxury bath products
- Private balcony
- Workstation
- iPod docking station
- Room service
Looking for something a tad more bougie? Check out Amanzi’s Kingfisher honeymoon suite. It has a private plunge pool overlooking the lagoon *swoon* it doesn’t get more romantic than this!
Food at Amanzi
Amanzi knows a thing or two about getting to your heart via your stomach. The lodge has a full-time chef ready to serve up a steady stream of delicious meals from their menu.
For breakfast (which you can eat downstairs in the restaurant, outside on the deck, or in your room) starts at 7:30 am. You can feast on the classics like freshly baked croissants, muesli and yogurt, and a hot breakfast with the usual suspects.
For lunch and dinner, you can choose from a variety of dishes on the menu.
Don’t see something for your dietary preferences? Let the chef know, and he’ll whip up something delicious for you.
Before, during, or after dinner, take advantage of the on-site bar and wine list. Amanzi has some wonderful vintages, and the restaurant is a prime sundowners spot.
What to Do in Knysna
Knysna is one of my favourite places in the Garden Route. It’s perfectly situated near some of the best things to do in the area and is only a short drive from other top Garden Route attractions.
Knysna Heads: The best view in town! Drive here early in the morning or for sunset. There are multiple viewpoints to explore, hiking trails, and nearby restaurants if you’re feeling peckish.
Knysna Lagoon: Go kayaking or scuba diving. Whether you’re exploring from on top or below, there’s loads to see. Keep an eye out for sea horses!
Drive the Seven Passes Road: The Seven Passes is a 75km road trip between Knysna and George. A national monument since 1970, it boasts some of the Garden Route’s most spectacular scenery.
Plettenberg Bay: Drive down to Plett (it’s only 30-minutes away) and go hiking at Robberg Nature Reserve or visit Birds of Eden and Monkeyland.
Read More: 10 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Knysna, South Africa
Amanzi: Final Thoughts
Amanzi Lodge is a gorgeous four-star getaway in Knysna. Its prime location and beautiful rooms make it perfect for couples looking to splurge on a romantic getaway or singles in need of some rest and relaxation.
You’ll have everything you need, whether you want to lounge by the pool all day or venture out and explore what the Garden Route has to offer.
A huge thanks to Amanzi Lodge for inviting me to their property and sponsoring my stay. As usual, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Leave a Reply