Knysna and the surrounding Garden Route are brimming with things to do, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Whether you’re into nature, food, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone near Paradise on Ridge. Below are just a few suggestions to get you started on your holiday home getaway.
Knysna, a gem of the Garden Route, is a haven for golfers, and staying at Paradise on Ridge puts you just minutes from some of the best courses around, all with stunning Lagoon views in the distance. A quick drive from your holiday home takes you to Knysna Golf Club, a local gem where an 18-hole course winds between the Lagoon and indigenous forest. With water hazards and rolling greens, it’s a fun challenge for any skill level, and the clubhouse is the perfect spot to unwind with a drink after your round.
For a touch of luxury, the Pezula Championship Golf Course, delivers dramatic clifftop holes and sweeping ocean vistas—often ranked among South Africa’s finest, it’s a must for a memorable game.
Equally close Simola Golf & Country Estate offers a Jack Nicklaus-designed course with top-notch amenities, its fairways hugging the Knysna River and framed by distant mountains. Whether you’re a pro or just swinging for fun, these courses let you tee off surrounded by the Garden Route’s natural beauty, making your stay at Paradise on Ridge even more special with the Knysna Lagoon always nearby.
When you stay at Paradise on Ridge, Knysna’s natural beauty is right at your fingertips, complementing the stunning Lagoon views from your holiday home. For beach lovers, Buffalo Bay Beach, just a 20-minute drive, boasts golden sands and untamed waves—perfect for surfing or a laid-back day by the sea. Visit Buffalo Bay Beach, for more details on this Garden Route favorite.
A 25-minute drive takes you to Noetzie Beach, a hidden treasure with its unique beachside castles and quiet coves, ideal for a peaceful escape; check out Noetzie Beach, to plan your visit.
Set sail with Ocean Sailing Charters on a luxury catamaran, gliding through the Knysna Heads to spot seals and dolphins. For a deeper marine experience, Ocean Odyssey offers whale watching and eco-tours, showcasing the Garden Route’s Ocean Wonders.
If you prefer a nature cruise, Featherbed Nature Reserve combines Lagoon trips with hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Knysna Heads.
Immerse yourself in local culture with Emzini Tours, exploring Knysna’s vibrant townships and connecting with the community. For wildlife lovers, the Knysna Elephant Park lets you meet rescued elephants in a sanctuary setting.
A short drive to The Crags brings you to Birds of Eden, a massive free-flight bird sanctuary, and Monkeyland, where you can walk among free-roaming primates in a lush forest.
For an adrenaline rush, the Canopy Tour offers a zipline adventure through the Knysna Forest’s treetops, giving you a bird’s eye view of the landscape. These activities highlight Knysna’s diverse charm, perfect for your Garden Route getaway.
For a forest outing, Jubilee Creek offers a shaded picnic spot with tables and a gentle stream—learn more at Jubilee Creek A short walk from the picnic spot leads to a waterfall nestled in the fynbos, a serene spot for a quick nature fix.
It’s always an adventure at Knysna Ziplines. Experience a one-of-a-kind zipline adventure – an adrenaline-filled experience that has you gliding over the treetops and giving you a spectacular view of the surrounding forest and natural landscapes.
Knysna’s dining scene caters to every craving and staying at Paradise on Ridge places you near some of the finest spots along the Garden Route, perfectly complementing the breathtaking Lagoon views from your holiday home. At the Waterfront, you’re spoiled for choice with 34 South, serving fresh seafood like oysters and wood-fired pizza, and Dry Dock, a stylish spot offering a diverse menu from sushi to grilled fare, both with stunning Knysna Lagoon views.
For a fine dining experience, Island Café at The Turbine Boutique Hotel delights with dishes like linefish with fynbos-infused sauces in a unique turbine-hall setting, while Butterfly Bluoffers an elegant menu featuring bluefin tuna, paired with ocean vistas at Brendon on sea.
For a more casual vibe, Riverdeck is a relaxed riverside gem with hearty meals and live music, perfect for a laid-back evening. Tapas on Thesen Island creates a lively atmosphere with shareable small plates, while Muse, closer to home, serves up tasty pizzas and burgers with a local twist.
A local favorite, East Head Café is ideal for breakfast or lunch, offering fresh, seasonal dishes with panoramic views of the Knysna Heads. These Knysna gems ensure your Garden Route getaway at Paradise on Ridge is as delicious as it is memorable.
These spots highlight Knysna’s diverse charm, from marine adventures to cultural and wildlife encounters. If you’re not into adventure, we’ve got you covered—back at Paradise on Ridge, there’s a drawer full of board games for a cozy night in, enjoying the Lagoon views from your holiday home.
These spots highlight Knysna’s diverse charm, from marine adventures to cultural and wildlife encounters. If you’re not into adventure, we’ve got you covered—back at Paradise on Ridge, there’s a drawer full of board games for a cozy night in, enjoying the Lagoon views from your holiday home.
