The St. James of Knysna is an independent, owner-run five-star country house on the banks of the idyllic Knysna Lagoon.

With its waterside gardens, awe-inspiring views across the Lagoon to the Knysna Heads, luxury suites,  guest lounge (with lending library and board games), exclusive gift boutique, two swimming pools and numerous seating areas it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the casual and relaxed Knysna  lifestyle.

Only 2.5 km from the centre of town – and 2.8 km from the popular The Waterfront Knysna Quays (with its restaurants, shops, etc.) – The St. James is also just a few minutes’ drive from Knysna’s championship golf courses: Simola, Pezula, and the Knysna Golf Club.

And if you love the water – for canoeing, kiteboarding, or just paddling about – well, the Lagoon’s right there at the end of our lush and expansive gardens.

As guests of the St. James, you’ll be treated to a complimentary, 90-minute cruise on our pontoon barge, ‘The Boat,’ which departs from our private jetty to explore the upper reaches of the Lagoon. A romantic, relaxing introduction to the Knysna River estuary in the central region of South Africa’s largest unfenced wildlife preserve: the Garden Route National Park.

After taking breakfast in our airy, light-filled dining room - with its views of the Lagoon and our Manor House gardens - the hardest decision you’ll have to make while you’re here may well be deciding where to base yourself for the day:

* On a lounger or picnic table on our expansive, lagoonside deck;

* Basking in the sun at the water’s edge, or by our Courtyard or Manor House swimming pools;

* Tucked away with a good book in a secluded spot in our lush, formal and informal gardens;

* Or in our chic and modern lounge and bar - where you’ll find a wide variety of great South African wines and locally made gins, as well as an excellent selection of the whiskeys you deserve.

* Feeling peckish, our bar menu has lots of tasty treats which can be enjoyed in the garden, dining room, patio or as room service.

If you’d prefer to spend your time exploring Knysna and the Garden Route - well, our staff will happily advise you, and help make your bookings for local adventures, golf, and other attractions.

We’re here to make your stay as comfortable as possible!