Points on this page:

• Steam trains
• Ferries
• Scenic Routes

Steam Trains

A fleet of beautifully restored vintage steam trains ply the Garden Route’s narrow gauge rail network, offering holidaymakers and steam-train aficionados an unique opportunity to relive the romantic and adventurous train journeys of yesteryear. Travelling from Knysna to George, the scenic route takes passengers through a wonderland of panoramic views and natural beauty.

The OUTENIQUA CHOO-TJOE is South Africa’s last scheduled daily steam train service. It operates between George and Knysna, using class 19D and class 24 steam locomotives. Reservations may be made at the Tourism Bureau, at stations or with specific tour companies. The Choo-Tjoe operates twice daily, excepting Sundays and certain public holidays. Tel. (044) 382 1361 international Tel. (+27 44) 382 1361.

THE UNION LIMITED is Transnet’s beautifully restored vintage steam train, offering a 6-day ‘Golden Thread’ tour from Cape Town through the Boland winelands, the coastlands of the Garden Route, and the Little Karoo. The train boasts first class accommodation, a serviced lounge to relax in and meals served in a magnificent wooden dining car. Reservations: Tel. (021) 405 4391 Fax. (021) 405 4395 International tel. +27 21 405 4391 Fax. +27 21 405 4395.

ROVOS RAIL offers a 24-hour journey between Cape Town, the winelands and the Garden Route in their ‘Pride of Africa’ train. Luxury accommodation combines the opulence of pre-war travel with subtle modern innovations, and an elegant ambience prevails. Between George and Knysna passengers will board two Rovos Rail carriages which will be added to the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe. Reservations: Tel. (021) 21 4020/1 Fax. (021) 21 4022 international Tel. +27 21 21 4020/1 Fax. +27 21 21 4022.

Ferries

A panoramic cruise on the Knysna lagoon is an essential part of the Knysna experience.

Knysna Waterfront Ferries offer a round trip to the Heads and the waterfront, lasting 1½ hours, as well as sundowner cruises from 17h30 - 19h00 (summer). A full bar, fresh Knysna oysters and a light meal are also available. Ferries depart from the Waterfront Jetty. For reservations and enquiries tel. (044) 382 5520 International tel. (+27 44) 382 5520.

The Featherbed Nature Reserve provides scenic views of Knysna and The Heads from the opposite shore of the lagoon. Ferries depart daily. On arrival at the reserve, guests are taken by 4x4 vehicle to the top of the Western Head. A wonderful foot trail leads through 2 km of coastal forest and along the water’s edge back to the Featherbed tavern, where a delicious lunch of grilled, fresh linefish may be enjoyed. Reservations and enquiries at tel. (044) 382 1693/7 International tel.(+27 44) 382 1693/7.

The m.v. John Benn is Knysna’s own pleasure boat, offering luxury cruises to the famous Heads, including a sundowner cruise. Departing from the municipal jetty twice a day, the John Benn features a fully licensed bar and live entertainment. Rivercat cruises into the Heads, are available lasting 1 ½ hours .

Reservations and enquiries at tel. (044) 382 1693/7 International tel (+27 44) 382 1693/7.

Scenic routes

Knysna Country Road

A beautiful, scenic route in the rural Rheenendal area, recapturing country pursuits and pastimes. A map is available from the Tourism Bureau.

The Knysna Timber Route visits various woodworkers, timber yards and crafters, bearing witness to the importance of the timber industry in Knysna’s economy, and giving visitors an insight into the wealth and beauty of this precious raw material.

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