So, what can the Knysna Forest offer Honeymoon Couples that other destinations can only dream of?
The answer lies in the sum of the parts, it’s not necessarily one thing, but a rare and beautiful combination of many things that will ensure that you have a memorable and magical honeymoon in the Knysna Forest.
Romance – something magical and romantic happens when the magic of the Knysna forest combines with a cozy Knysna forest woodcutter cabin, like what you can find at Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat, nestled against the ancient Knysna forest. Their cozy cottages are equipped with a fireplace, hammock, Victorian bath, hot outside shower and many more luxuries that makes for a magical and romantic honeymoon. Nature provides the tranquil backdrop to a beautiful romance under a blanket of stars, or a serenade by twitterpated birds.
Authenticity – only 100 meters from Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat lives the Zeelie brothers. The last 2 living descents of the original woodcutters were removed by the government from the Knysna forest in the 20th century. They live a very basic life, off the grid and their stories are out of this world and very entertaining. Quite a few of the characters created by the world-renowned novelist, Dalene Matthee, was based on their family members. Matthee’s memorial stone is only a few kilometers from their humble abode. The cottages found at Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat are all replicas of the woodcutter cottages from that nostalgic period. So, if you dream of an authentic honeymoon that’s filled with life-enriching memories, rather than another Instagram post, then a Honeymoon in the Knysna forest is right up your alley.
Privacy – after the craziness of planning and hosting your dream wedding, all you need is some quality time with your partner. That might not be so easy if you stay in fancy hotels in busy centers. Enter a Knysna forest Honeymoon. Off the beaten track, away from the crowds, surrounded by pristine nature – quality time and privacy guaranteed. Especially if you’re lucky enough to find some of the real hidden gems in the middle of the Garden Route, like Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat.
Adventure – whether you are active on a stunning Forest Walk or Biking Trail, enjoying an exhilarating downhill on a Monster Mountain Scooter through indigenous forest, sweepy bends, and single track, or having a picnic next to a secluded Forest Stream or Swimming in Magnificent Rock Pools, a Knysna forest Honeymoon promises Romantic Adventure and lots of things to do.
Hospitality – a great and memorable honeymoon is all about being pampered and feeling special. Places like Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat in the Knysna Forest are known for their warm hospitality and amazing attention to detail. From arranging a couple’s massage in front of your fireplace in your cozy cottage to preparing a mouth-watering breakfast for you at their picturesque Lily Pond Deck, where Oom Dries will entertain you with great stories and information about the area. Your honeymoon forest accommodation is going to form the basis of your entire experience so make sure you pick something unique and memorable. Katharine Kyriacou from Cape Town said it best: “A magical honeymoon experience. Our hosts anticipated our every need. By day, Forest Edge was a perfect base for exploring Knysna and Plett. The forest sounds and starry skies at night were unforgettable. We wish we could stay longer and will definitely be back.”
Diversity – The Knysna Forest is never far from award-winning beaches, picturesque coastal hikes, gastronomic restaurants, romantic settings like idyllic waterfront sunsets, adrenalin sports sites, exquisite wine farms, and wildlife sanctuaries. The beauty is that after a hectic day out, exploring the amazing Garden Route, you get to return to the Peace and Tranquillity of the Knysna Forest – perfect for your Honeymoon vibes. All these elements combine to make a perfect and magical “Honeymoon Cocktail” – a Knysna forest Honeymoon is something that you will remember for the rest of your beautiful lives together.