Knysna Forest Accommodation

A Tribute to Hennie Zeelie, the woodcutter

3rd November 2020 by Mel Bentley Cornelius

A tribute to Hennie Zeelie, the woodcutter who was one of the last remaining woodcutters and our neighbour here at Forest Edge Nature Lover’s Retreat.

If only the Knysna forest could talk, it would tell tales of early woodcutters and ox wagons, of how people grew their own food and lived in peace in the forest. Each tree telling his version of how they coexisted with the woodcutters, like Hennie Zeelie, and the animals.

Daleen Matthee well-known Author who produced many books in her lifetime, amongst those Fiela’s Child, Dreamforest, Circles in the Forest, as most South Africans have got to know as they were also prescribed as school literature, many of her stories were inspired by the lives of the Zeelie descendants and will now serve as a tribute to Hennie Zeelie, the woodcutter and those before him.

Michiel and Hendrik (Hennie) Zeelie worked many years in the Goudveld Forests. They did hard labour, from planting veg to fixing ox wagons, chopping down trees and transporting them. The decades of hard manual labour etched on their faces. Two of the most humble people you could have ever met. They would walk up to 20km each day and not bother a soul while going about their daily business. They have great stories to tell about their history, and the history of the area, which takes you on a journey you would not soon forget, infused with a twist of humour.

They could show you spoor and listen to bird noises and identity each one flawlessly while telling you the facts about them. They know the area like the back of their hands every nook and cranny of this beautiful forest we call home. Listing to their stories with a little bit of each of their memories poured into the tale, you can see the fond memories of a time gone by but still lives on in their hearts and minds, each story so captivating, heartfelt and interesting leaving you wanting more.

The Zeelie brothers have become such a great part of our community and their presence…. priceless. We are honoured to be part of their lives and being able to write this tribute to Hennie Zeelie.

Hennie will be sorely missed by everyone who’s lives he touched.

Forest Greetings

Rheenendal the History

26th October 2020 by Mel Bentley Cornelius

Rheenendal the History…..

Have you ever visited Rheenendal? Where is Rheenendal you may ask… Rheenendal is situated between Sedgefield and Knysna, here is more about Rheenendal and its history:

This Rheenendal area is rich with history and where our establishment is found. Forest Edge Nature Lover’s Retreat, in the Knysna woods, is one of the most diverse and spectacular places in South Africa.

Pieter Joseph Vin Van Reenen was born in 1877 and married Florence Eleanor Cross better known as “Tottie” (This is where the famous “Totties Farm Kitchen in Rheenendal gets its name from”

Pieter Van Reenen wanted to farm and Cape Town was too expensive and the prospects were not that great, they even considered Kenya but eventually settled on Roodekraal/Redlands in 1912. They took the train from Cape Town to George where they took a horse-drawn cart and followed the road along the Seven Passes, such a stunning road to just take in the beauty of the area, and live through the history of Rheenendal, this is also a National Monument preserving historic buildings and bridges and settled here in our valley. In 1920 the Van Reenen family bought the Rheenendal Farm.

The Van Reenen’s employed people to start their Sawmill Business. They only had Boekenhout (Cape Beechwood) at the time on the farm, BUT this wood was too soft so they ended up making wagon parts and ended up selling to merchants in Knysna. The Sawmill industry started in August 1921 in Rheenendal and is a huge part of the Rheenendal History.

In 1920 “Tottie” started her shop it was previously an old storeroom behind the main farmhouse. She added shelving and it later became a butchery too.

The shop moved into its current position many years later and was also the showroom for the Stinkwood Furniture they produced as well as a petrol station and postal service for the area.

Today the legend still goes on and you can experience the history of Rheenendal and the family right here in our valley. Totties restaurant and shop is run by her Grand Children and well known amongst the locals and visitors. They serve lovely homemade meals, and a Sunday Carvery out of this world. This is a great stop for hikers and mountain bikers that frequent our route. They offer great Kids entertainment with a play area and model train track.

Definitely worth a visit when staying with us at Forest Edge Nature Lover’s Retreat or Knysna as a whole. Rheenendal has many hidden gems to explore and the passes are a must.

VISITING KNYSNA

4th October 2020 by Mel Bentley Cornelius

Visiting Knysna is a must for anyone living or visiting South Africa, with its lush beauty and unique charm. Knysna is a natural indigenous paradise offering breathtaking and endless opportunities for both adventure and leisure.

It has so much to offer from lush forests, picturesque beaches, beautiful mountains, and breathtaking tranquil rivers. Home to both the last remaining Knysna Elephant, Knysna Loerie, Pansy Shell, the Knysna seahorse and 8000 different plant species.

Our Knysna forest is the largest closed-canopy forest in southern Africa. Nothing like a quiet walk down one of the many demarcated trails deep into the forest, to experience nothing but the sounds of Cicada, birds and the leaves from the trees as the breeze ruffles them. The air is so clean and you smell the dampness as it emerges from the ground, with an occasional branch breaking and letting the imagination flow, trying to establish what may have caused it, hoping it’s the Elephants presence you hear.

Everyone seeks peace to relief from the hustle and bustle of the fast-paced city life. Whether your idea of relaxing is looking for mindfulness, thrill-seeking or adventure Knysna offers it all. By Visiting Knysna you can get all this and more. Forest Edge offers Knsyna Forest Accommodation, right in the heart of the forest. Rheenendal is only 22.6km from our establishment and gives you a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With only a wire fence between our establishment and the dense lush tree canopies, it is truly a special place. There are 850 species of birds recorded in Southern Africa of which 50 of them are only found in Southern Africa and nowhere else. We have regular visits, from our feathered friends, including the Knysna Loerie, and the Knysna Woodpecker as they frequent the trees and ponds on the premises. Our Nightlife is also a spectacular and special experience all by its self, with the sounds of Nightjars echoing, fireflies lighting fluttering and rustling of the trees.

We look forward to welcoming you when you come and visit Knysna and sharing with you the special place we call home.

Forest Greetings…..

Romantic Forest Accommodation Knysna

8th November 2019 by Danie Jansen Van Vuuren

Romance is in the air and the world is filled with stunning destinations for the perfect romantic holiday getaway. Where will you go next for a lovers’ retreat?

An esteemed global panel of Travel Writers specializing in Romantic Destinations were challenged to identify the single most important ingredient for the ultimate Romantic Getaway. Things like mystery, beauty, and pampering all made the list, but the winner, in the end, was: PRIVACY.

One sure way of finding privacy is to veer a bit off the beaten track. Whoever dreams of getting stuck in traffic in a busy city on your romantic getaway? It’s hard to show your special someone how much you love them when you have road rage. Now think Romantic Forest Accommodation, think or feel any different?

23 kilometres outside of the beautiful coastal town of Knysna, lies the indigenous and ancient Goudveld Knysna Forest – part of 68 000 hectares of indigenous forest, a mosaic of forest, grasslands and fynbos, managed by SANParks as part of the Garden Route National Park. Imagine giant 900-year-old Yellowwood trees, ferns, streams, rivers, waterfalls, Knysna Loeries and so much more – picture perfect to make memories for a lifetime. The timeless beauty of the Knysna Forest is bound to seduce you and your partner. Because of its sheer size and remote location, you are guaranteed some very special, private and memorable moments in the Knysna Forest.

There are so many romantic and private activities that a couple can do together in the Knysna Forest. The Top 2 must be:

Picnic at Jubilee Creek – Jubilee Creek is an exquisite picnic area next to a forest creek deep in the Goudveld Knysna Forest. With picnic benches, barbeque facilities, bins, and toilets, this is a clean and simply breathtakingly beautiful area. Ideal for a secluded romantic picnic. There is also an hour-long walking trail that starts and ends at the picnic site, through the indigenous forest alongside the creek that leads past old gold-mine dug-outs to a small rock pool and waterfall. This is a must-visit spot to replenish heart and soul.

Hike Drupkelders – loosely translated into Dripping Cellars, are rock pools in the Knysna forest. Combine a 3.5km indigenous forest walk with a visit to magnificent rock pools in the Homtini River in the Knysna Forest. These massive rock pools offer deep, cola-colored waters to cool off in and even a waterfall to clamber up next to. Take a rucksack with a picnic and swimming gear. Due to the exclusivity of this gem (again delivering on the Privacy promise of the Knysna Forest), only 12 persons a day are allowed in and a Sanparks permit is required.

Romantic Forest Accommodation in Knysna

The beauty of a Romantic Getaway in the Knysna Forest is that it does not only deliver BIG on Privacy, but it also delivers on Mystery and Magic as well as Pampering. If you have romantic forest accommodation to match expectations, attractions, and mystery then you are in for a treat.

This is the place where world-renowned author Dalene Matthee got her inspiration from, to write acclaimed novels like “Circles in the Forest”. This is the place where the elusive and magical Knysna Elephant still roams freely. The place where you can find the magical Knysna Loerie (Turaco) – their primary wing flight feathers are bright red – a magical sight which can be seen when the bird is in flight. And the place where a very unique forest dweller, The Knysna Dwarf Chameleon, can be found. The Knysna Forest is truly a Magical Place that will capture any Romantic’s imagination and provide you with hours of entertainment and admiration.

People fall in love with the Knysna Forest, in part because it is so conducive to nourishing the human spirit.

The only Romance ingredient still missing for the ultimate Romantic Getaway in the Knysna Forest is: Pampering.

Nestled against the ancient Knysna Forest, you will find Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat, with authentic Woodcutter Cottages. This hidden gem is known for their amazing hospitality. There’s something so special about the staff. From the moment you arrive at Forest Edge, you are treated like family. Their cozy and well-maintained accommodation cottages are fully equipped and include things like a fireplace, hammock and outside shower. They also offer a full English Breakfast on their picturesque Lily Pond Deck and a romantic couple’s massage in front of your fireplace.

If you’re a nature lover, craving privacy and real connections, then The Knysna Forest must be one of the most romantic places on earth and should be on your romance travel bucket list. There are also a lot of things to do in Knysna and surrounds that will keep you on your toes.

Ever considered having your honeymoon in the Knysna Forest?

8th November 2019 by Danie Jansen Van Vuuren

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 20^th 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.

Now that you have some insight and background, make sure you consider having your honeymoon in the Knysna Forest!

Knysna Honeymoon Forest Accommodation

22nd October 2019 by Danie Jansen Van Vuuren

Something truly romantic transpires when you combine the magic of the ancient Knysna forest with authentic woodcutter hospitality, only found at Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat. Welcome to the ultimate Knysna Honeymoon Forest Accommodation.

Forest Edge is nestled against the ancient and pristine Knysna forest, a place that inspired author Dalene Matthee’s world-renowned Knysna forest novels. Imagine giant 900-year-old Yellowwood trees, ferns, streams, rivers, waterfalls, Knysna Loeries and so much more – picture perfect to make honeymoon memories for a lifetime.

Although such a joyous occasion, getting married is universally accepted as one of the most stressful events in a couple’s lives. Making the honeymoon such a crucial part of newlyweds’ starts to their life journey together. The ultimate honeymoon is one that promises and delivers Privacy, Tranquillity, and Romance, with a healthy dose of Adventure. And that’s exactly what a Knysna Forest Honeymoon is all about.

Life has become so rushed and superficial, that humans crave authenticity and real connections. These are the principles that drive Forest Edge and our surrounds. Forest Edge’s Knysna Forest Honeymoon Accommodation consists of authentic Woodcutter Cottages, that takes you back to a nostalgic era of free-roaming Knysna Elephants and colorful storytelling around an open fire. Although authentic, our cottages are beautifully decorated and fully equipped (fireplace, hammock, Victorian bath, hot outside shower) with all the luxuries and amenities that you will need for a cozy, comfortable and romantic honeymoon stay.

In keeping with our passion for real connections, our honeymoon couples will be treated to an amazing full English breakfast buffet on our picturesque Lily Pond Deck. Breakfast is hosted by our own storyteller extraordinaire – Dries du Preez. What better way to start your adventure-filled day in the Knysna Forest, than joining “Oom Dries” for breakfast, your daily dose of tour guide advice and colorful stories.

After breakfast, it’s time for some exploring and our honeymooners are spoiled for choice. The Knysna Forest is such an interesting and diverse place offering exotic lore, stunning forest walks, secluded cola-colored rock pools, and gorgeous picnic spots. Explore the myriad of attractions, bird-watch from your veranda, have sundowners with the fireflies or snuggle up next to your fireplace.

There’s no doubt that Honeymooners are spoilt for choice in our beautiful country, but if you are looking for Privacy, Tranquillity, Romance, things to do, and an Authentic Experience, then book a Knysna Forest Honeymoon. Don’t just take our word for it, this is what Caroline Mocke (nee Erasmus) from Mpumalanga had to say: “Was here on honeymoon – what an amazing experience! The beauty of nature, the amazing breakfasts, the accommodating, friendly & wonderful staff and the romance of a log fire in the evenings – as far as holidays go – the bar has been set extremely high on this our first one together. The wonderful memories we have made here will carry us through the tough times. See you soon!”

22nd October 2019 by Danie Jansen Van Vuuren

When booking your Knysna Forest Accommodation, be sure to look at the surrounding attractions, activities and cuisine.

South Africa is a country with varying terrains, diverse climates and ecosystems that change around almost every corner you take. Considering our diversity there is one thing that is missing and very rarely seen – forests. When we talk about forests we are not talking about man-made plantations or pine ‘forests’, but rather natural, indigenous, evergreen forests that evoke a sense of magical mystery.

Nestled in the Knysna mountains in the famous Garden Route is South Africa’s largest and oldest natural forest. Spanning a mere 568 square kilometres, the Knysna forest is small compared to its international counterparts. However, don’t underestimate the impact this forest has on the local climate, ecosystems, wildlife and human life.

History of Knysna Forest

Taking a step back in the history books to the 17^th Century, when South Africa was an exploring ground for the Dutch settlers, wood was a sought after raw material and forests were easy targets.

The Dutch East India Company (VOC), after settling in Cape Town, had quickly gone through the small forests on the Table Mountain slopes and needed to find larger quantities of wood to meet their demand for fuel, buildings and raw materials. In the early 18^th Century shipping routes from Mauritius were closed down, which prompted the investigation for raw materials in their nearby surroundings. The Dutch settlers initiated their exploration by venturing both East and West of Cape Town, finding suitable locations and setting up outposts as they progressed. However, it wasn’t until they found the Garden Route that they saw the vast expanses of timber. In 1817 the Knysna Lagoon was declared a port and through some trial and tribulations a harbour was established and local economy and wood trade expedited.

Knysna Forest Woodcutters

By the early 20^th Century the harbour was no longer able to function as intended due to its narrow and shallow profile. It was then that a railway was established, connecting Knysna to the main railway network throughout the country. However, by the time the railway was completed, it became clear that the magical, local, the indigenous forest was not endless and that steps needed to be taken to protect and preserve the Knysna Forest.

The local woodcutters, who lived in the Knysna Forests, felled and sold trees to local sawmills for a living. The Knysna Forest Woodcutters would cut down enormous trees by hand and sell the timber off for very small amounts – leaving them in a state of constant poverty. Their livelihood was then at risk, with many woodcutters having to leave the forest to find alternate jobs when forest preservation become a priority. In 1967 the forest was closed completely and no felling of trees was allowed.

“The Woodcutter’s day started with the sun. He would either walk the few miles of forest trail to the tree upon which he was working or wake up beside it to the smell of a smouldering ironwood fire and old ash and the clean scent of fresh wood-chips. Soon there would be the fragrance of coffee and tobacco smoke and then, with the first shafts of sunlight, the ringing of axes would begin again. A man and his sons might spend as long as a month working a giant yellowwood or stinkwood tree.” Hjalmar Thesen, Country Days (David Philip, Cape Town, 1974)

Honeymoon in the forest

The Knysna Forest is a place that is filled with mystery, beauty and intrigue. Pulling from the rich history and abundant wildlife, the forests are the perfect place to build real connections and ignite a fire in our hearts. And there are no better place than Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat.

In keeping with our passion for real connections and our celebration of the Knysna Forest history, our honeymoon couples will be treated to an amazing full English breakfast buffet on our picturesque Lily Pond Deck. Breakfast is hosted by our own storyteller extraordinaire – Dries du Preez. What better way to start your adventure-filled day in the Knysna Forest, than joining “Oom Dries” for breakfast, your daily dose of tour guide advice and colourful stories.

Types of accommodation you will find in or around the forest

The Knysna forest is a diverse, tropical, magic place to be and there is no better way to celebrate its mystery by staying inside it or on the very nearby parameter. There is a wide variety of Knysna Forest accommodation options, but to get the best experience we have found you need to find something as authentic as possible.

You will want to stay in a place that celebrates romance, embraces the local history and gives you a local and authentic experience. To get this experience we advise that you stay in either an authentic forest cabin or one of the treetop tents. Knysna Forest accommodation can sometimes be hard to come by, depending on the season or local events, so be sure to book your forest stay in advance.

Things to do in the Knysna forest and wider Knysna area

Food & local cuisine

Home to the famous Knysna oyster festival, Knysna offers a wide range of food options in a cosmopolitan environment with a small-town feeling. For an authentic experience when signing up for Knysna Forest accommodation, make sure you set aside some time to try out the local, more authentic and traditional dishes. Speak to some locals or your accommodation hosts to find out where the local hidden gems are and what their speciality is.

Hiking

Knysna is a little town that is surrounded by mountains and forests. Because of its location and setting, Knysna has some of the best hiking trails in South Africa. The Knysna hiking trails are diverse and have varying degrees of difficulties and distances to suit any kind of hiker. If you are a recreational hiker, or someone who just wants to see the local flora and fauna then there is a route for you. If you are a highly skilled and fit hiker then you can push your boundaries by embarking on hiking trails that extend through the Garden Route.

Mountain Biking

Knysna is a very well-known mountain biking destination with some of the most challenging and spectacular mountain biking routes in the Garden Route.

The Homtini mountain biking trail is a 19km circular route that starts and ends at Krisjan-se-Nek picnic area in the Millwood Forest. This mountain biking trail includes single-track sections, it is 19km long (about 3km from Forest Edge) and there is a tough climb between kilometres 5 and 9.

Mountain biking trails like these, includes scenes of scenic high forest, fynbos and plantations. There is a swimming spot just before a very tough climb.

From the top, there is a stunning view over the Knysna River gorge, Lilyvlei Forest and the Knysna Heads in the distant background, and later on the Millwood Goldfields. It traverses sections of wet forest and a white-water stream.

There are also many, many other mountain biking trails that you can explore to maximise your adventure stay in the Knysna forest.

the forests of knysna near forest edge nature lovers retreat

Beaches & lagoon

Knysna is very well known for its beaches and the famous Knysna Lagoon. Beaches are filled over the holiday season where beachgoers are treated to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and the pristine white sand that South African beaches are renowned for. There are many different beaches in Knysna that you can visit, such as Bollard Bay, Noetzie Beach, Buffalo Bay, and many more.

If you plan on going to any beach in or around Knysna please make sure you bring the essentials and make sure you never swim alone as some of the swimming spots are known for having strong rip currents and highly fluctuating tides.

…and many more other things to do in Knysna

Things to see

Flora & Fauna

Knysna has an abundance of wildlife and ecosystems. With mountains, forests and the ocean, there is healthy biodiversity that allows for phenomenal sight-seeing. There are also some species that can only be seen in Knysna, which will no doubt make your trip and Knysna Forest Accommodation well worth it. Some species that are unique to Knysna include the Knysna Loerie, Knysna Seahorse, Knysna Dwarf Chameleon, and many more. The area also plays host to many smaller species such as the rare blue duiker and Cape clawless otter.

There are also ancient tree and plant species that can be viewed, many of which are indigenous to the region, of which the Outeniqua Yellowwood is the most famous.

Some of the most popular trees you will find when walking through the Knysna forest

Outeniqua yellowwood (Podocarpus falcatus)
Real yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius)
Stinkwood (Occotea bullata)
White pear (Apodytes dimidiata subsp. dimidiata)
Terblans beech (Faurea macnaughtonii)
Assegai (Curtisia dentata)