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St James of Knysna

5.0 star property
Luxury country house with 2 outdoor pools, steps from Knysna Lagoon

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Photo gallery for St James of Knysna

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - Lady Anne | Terrace/patio
Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Front of property
Executive Penthouse, 1 King Bed, Lagoon View | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated
Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 4 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
The Point, Eastford, Knysna, Western Cape, 6570
  • Place, Knysna Lagoon
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Friday Market
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Place, Garden Route National Park
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, Plettenberg Bay (PBZ)
    ‪38 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Double Room - Garden Facing - 1

Standard Double Room - Garden Facing - 1 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Standard Double Room - Garden Facing - 1

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 312 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite - Garden Facing - 2

Deluxe Suite - Garden Facing - 2 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Suite - Garden Facing - 2

  • 452 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Suite - Garden Facing - 3

Deluxe Suite - Garden Facing - 3 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Suite - Garden Facing - 3

  • 506 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 King Beds

View all photos for Junior Suite - Courtyard Facing - 9

Junior Suite - Courtyard Facing - 9 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Junior Suite - Courtyard Facing - 9

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 592 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 11

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 11 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 11

  • Lake view
  • 506 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Suite - Garden Facing - 15

Superior Suite - Garden Facing - 15 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Superior Suite - Garden Facing - 15

  • Partial lake view
  • 495 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 16

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 16 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 16

  • Lagoon view
  • 527 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 17

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 17 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 17

  • Lagoon view
  • 495 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 18

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 18 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 18

  • Partial lake view
  • 495 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 12

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 12 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 12

  • Lake view
  • 560 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 7

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 7 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 7

  • Lagoon view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 4

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 4 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 4

  • Lagoon view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 5

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 5 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 5

  • Lagoon view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 6

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 6 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - 6

  • Lagoon view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Executive Penthouse, 1 King Bed, Lagoon View

Executive Penthouse, 1 King Bed, Lagoon View | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Executive Penthouse, 1 King Bed, Lagoon View

  • Lagoon view
  • 969 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 10

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 10 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Deluxe Suite - Lake Facing - 10

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Lake view
  • 646 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Junior Suite - Courtyard Facing - 8

Junior Suite - Courtyard Facing - 8 | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Junior Suite - Courtyard Facing - 8

  • 517 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Superior Suite - Lake Facing - Lady Anne

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - Lady Anne | Hypo-allergenic bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually decorated

Superior Suite - Lake Facing - Lady Anne

  • Lake view
  • 463 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Knysna

St James of Knysna places you next to Knysna Lagoon and within 2 miles (3 km) of other popular attractions like Knysna Waterfront. This 15-room, 5-star country house welcomes guests with 2 outdoor pools, free breakfast, and free in-room WiFi.
View more Country Houses in KnysnaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Knysna Lagoon - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Friday Market - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Garden Route National Park - 17 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Knysna Waterfront - 6 min drive - 2.2 miles
  • Leisure Isle - 11 min drive - 6.3 miles

Getting around

  • George (GRJ) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Seattle Coffee Company - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Chatters - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪The Drydock Food Co - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪34 South - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Lunar Cafe - ‬3 min drive

About this property

St James of Knysna

Luxury country house with 2 outdoor pools, steps from Knysna Lagoon
Guests staying at St James of Knysna enjoy access to 2 outdoor pools, a gym, and free WiFi in public areas. You can take advantage of free parking, along with an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for ZAR 800 per room one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with concierge services, securing valuables, and dry cleaning/laundry. Other amenities at this luxury country house include coffee/tea in a common area, a library, and a terrace.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and 43-inch TVs with digital channels and Netflix. Bathrooms offer hair dryers, free toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers. Other standard amenities include refrigerators, minibars, and coffee makers.
2 outdoor swimming pools are on site along with a fitness center.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free secured, uncovered self parking on site
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Food and drink

  • Free buffet breakfast available daily 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • Coffee and tea in common areas
  • Private picnics

Restaurants on site

  • St James of Knysna

Things to do

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Boat and paddles
  • Boat tours
  • Canoeing
  • Designer stores
  • Fishing
  • Golf driving range
  • Gym
  • Kayaking
  • Library
  • Mini golf
  • Personal motorized watercraft

Family friendly

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Mini golf
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service

Outdoors

  • Beach towels
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Dock
  • Garden
  • On a lake
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance

More

  • 2 buildings
  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1991
  • Colonial architecture
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch TV with digital channels
  • Netflix
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • 24-hour room service
  • Champagne service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Minibar
  • Refrigerator
  • Restaurant dining guides

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Electrical adapters
  • Free daily newspapers
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • Phone
  • Safe
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: ZAR 800 per room (one-way)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a security system.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

National rating

Quality Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organization.

Property is also known as

Knysna St James
St James House Knysna
St James Knysna
The St James Knysna
The St. James Of Knysna Hotel Knysna
St James Knysna Country House
St James Country House
The St. James Of Knysna Hotel
St James of Knysna Knysna
St James of Knysna Country House
St James of Knysna Country House Knysna

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at St James of Knysna?

St James of Knysna offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For more details, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What is there to do within easy reach of St James of Knysna?

This country house in Knysna is within a 10-minute walk of Knysna Lagoon and Cape Floral Region Protected Areas. You'll also find Garden Route National Park and Friday Market less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at St James of Knysna?

Yes, secured self parking is offered for free at the country house.

Does St James of Knysna include a casino on the premises?

No, St James of Knysna doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at St James of Knysna?

No, this country house doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are 2 outdoor pools.

What amenities will couples enjoy at St James of Knysna?

This boutique country house offers many amenities for couples, including Champagne service as well as 2 outdoor pools and a bar.

Does St James of Knysna have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this country house.

Does St James of Knysna have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, St James of Knysna serves free buffet breakfast at St James of Knysna each morning.

Does St James of Knysna allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at St James of Knysna.

Does St James of Knysna have connecting rooms?

No, this country house doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to St James of Knysna?

The closest major airport to St James of Knysna is Plettenberg Bay (PBZ), which is 22.6 mi away (40 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at St James of Knysna?

Yes, some accommodations at this country house offer either a furnished balcony or a patio where guests can enjoy lake or garden views.

St James of Knysna Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 153 out of 186 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 25 out of 186 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 186 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 186 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 186 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Catherine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful welcome, amazing staff and real comfort.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Very Nice Accommodations!!

Fabulous hotel and top shelf service. We were greeted at the door, escorted to the bar/salon seating area to have a glass of bubbly while doing the checkin process in comfort. We were lucky enough to get a complimentary upgrade and our bags were in our beautiful room when we got there. The room was large and comfortable. Bed and linens were perfect. Breakfast was a choice of hot or a buffet, or both...but all amazing. Staff were all professional, but very warm and welcoming. I recommend this hotel very highly.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

greg

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very private accommodations with extremely friendly and helpful staff. Absolutely beautiful accommodations!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pearl

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Exceptional staff and hotel

Wonderful hotel with exceptional amazing staff who work as a team looking after their guests. Sandi leads this wonderful team.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Betty

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This must be the best place to stay in Knysna. I agonized about whether to stay here or closer in town and I definitely made the right choice. Everyone in ZA seems nice but the St James is beyond nice. It really is lovely to come back to a place where people go above and beyond. Great breakfast overlooking the water without the crowd. Nice place to have a cocktail after dinner. Huge room with great views. Private, safe parking area. I never even used the beautiful boat which other guests took advantage of. Enjoy!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emma

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
St James was a perfect stay in Knysna - we wished we had booked additional nights, the hotel is a little further out of town but it is quiet, tranquil & the staff were so helpful in organising transport when required. Thanks to Sandy & the team!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

David

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A beautiful hotel overlooking an even more beautiful lagoon. We had a large room overlooking the lagoon and there are some huge suites. The staff were all friendly and excellent. Norman was extremely helpful and happy to advise us on how to get the most from the time we had in Knysna, including an excellent restaurant recommendation.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Riccardo

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
We just spent two nights at St James and we loved it. It it right in front lot the Knysna lagoon and offers a great boat ride to all guests, which we enjoyed. We were upgraded on arrival by the very kind staff who man the reception. Knysna is a very interesting destination, we loved the Two Heads excursion to the ocean. We recommend Dt James to all travellers to Knysna and we would like to thank the staff for the very profesional and kind atttitude.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Nice stop on garden route

Excellent stop in Knysna. Very good professional and helpful service. Have shared before and would return
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ettiene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Memorable experience

I felt a bit like royalty.... Such a pleasureable experience! And everyone goes out of their way to help you.... And the free boat ride of course was very nice!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert, Westhill

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful Hotel in a quiet location. Staff are excellent and trip on the hotel’s own boat is a bonus. Pools are both lovely and our room/suite was lovely with great views of the lagoon.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Colm

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We really enjoyed our stay here, we stayed in the Lady Anne Suite and it was amazing. The views over the lagoon were super and Sandy could not do enough for us. Was very helpful about suggesting activities for us and restaurants to eat in. It's a little bit out of town but they can arrange transfer for you which are quite reasonable. We had a really great relaxing stay here.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christian

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely hotel right on the lagoon. We had a spectacular view from our room and it was so peaceful waking up to the sightband sound of the still lagoon. Staff were excellent, very friendly and helpful. Breakfast was amazing too.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff and property. Large and immaculate rooms. A must stay place.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

George

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Boat trip was awesome, staff amazing, drinks were outstanding, food was perfect. I will come here again, for sure!

10/10 Excellent

DOUGLAS

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

The best

This is our favourite place to stay in Knysna. Great staff, wonderful position, great breakfast.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Service, staff and room were excellent but stay was ruined by no restaurant, no bar, no lounge no T V and very few other Guests. Renovation works in progress which we were not told about. Check before you book
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 1 night in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is a beautiful property. It is not inexpensive however the facility certainly merits the cost. It has a view of the waterfront and the rooms are spacious and extremely well maintained. The restaurant in the hotel has good breakfast and lunch options. Recommend having dinner at one of the many places on the waterfront. Solid 4 star property.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Eusebio

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

DOUGLAS

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Old world elegance

Great place. Very happy. Once the luxury home of the first Miss South Africa
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2019

4/10 Poor

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service

Very disappointing

Below average. - right in the high way so lots of noise from traffic - slow service - old non maintained/renovated rooms - WiFi not working - more like a 3 star establishment + nice breakfast outside area Overall very disappointing
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2019

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