Cliffhanger Cottages, Knysna

After our basically stress-free wedding, we were treated to the most amazing week-long honeymoon at the Cliffhanger Cottages in Knysna. We weren’t sure what to expect really – even after nights of searching, things to do in Knysna don’t show up that often online.

In fact, I packed 3 books because I was convinced we’d spend the time with nothing to do. I’m glad to say I only got 3 chapters through 1 book. Here’s more about our stay, and why we fell absolutely in love with these gorgeous cottages <3

About the Cliffhanger Cottages

Cliffhanger Cottages are found on the Rheenendal Ramble, just 15 mins outside of Knysna. It’s a quick turn off the N2 between Sedgefield and Knysna, and a gorgeous, winding drive to the ‘surfboard’.

There are 3 cottages; the Cliffhanger, Cliff’s Edge, and the Hedge. The cottages are owned and run by Ingrid and Barry, along with their staff and their watchful dog Moya. As you drive up to the accommodation, you’re met with a flourishing garden, flowers, and the stunning forest in the foreground.

Each cottage is self-catering and has ample living space; including a bathroom, kitchenette, and the comfiest beds you’ll find.

Cliffhanger is located pretty much in between the serenity of the forest and the bustling town. Leaving the cottage, you simply turn right for farm stalls, forest walks, and nature reserves. Or turn left to head back to the N2 and venture into Knysna itself for shopping, boat rides, and sightseeing.

The Room

We stayed in the Hedge cottage. It’s not quite a ‘cliffhanger’ but for this I was grateful. I’m not the biggest fan of heights or cliffs. So the Hedge gave us spectacular views, and a well-manicured garden to enjoy as well.

Inside the room, we had a mini kitchen corner, with a microwave, kettle, fridge, and gas stove. Plates, cups, and cutlery were all provided, as well as kitchen cloths (these are more important than they seem).

The kitchen moved on into a lounge area, with a comfy couch and a TV. Bonus: the TV is on an adjustable arm. Meaning it could be turned to face the couch or the bed – hello honeymoon movie nights!

The bed, literally my favourite part, is situated right in front of the sliding door. This makes for some dreamlike views in the morning! It’s a queen-size bed and is extremely comfortable. There are the cutest little sheep attached to the headboard (just in case you’re battling to sleep).

Lastly, the bathroom is the only room with a door. It’s spacious and clean. The shower is LARGE, the only thing I wasn’t crazy about was the shower head right above my head, but I got used to that.

The Views

No matter how many photos we tried to take, we simply could not capture the full magnitude of the cottage views. From our bed, through the glass sliding door right in front, we could see right into the Phantom Acres.

More trees than I’ve seen in my 5 years in Cape Town, stunning mountain cliffs, and flocks of birds were our morning greetings. All we had to do was open the curtains and bring our coffee to bed. If only every morning was like that!

The Hosts

We met Ingrid upon our arrival, and she is a lovely lady! The tips she gave us on where to go and what we could find around us was invaluable. Unfortunately, we didn’t quite meet Barry, but from previous reviews, we believe he’s just as great as Ingrid 🙂

We also got to spend some time with Moya, the friendly but stern dog on the property. She carefully checked us out, came and inspected our room briefly and then went off on her way. She is gorgeous!

Where/what to eat

The Cliffhanger cottages are all self-catering and are fully equipped with:

• Gas stove
• Microwave
• Fridge
• Plates, bowls, glasses, mugs (4 of each)
• Knives, forks, spoons
• Cooking utensils
• Pots & pans
• Kettle
• Even kitchen cloths, dishwashing liquid, and a sponge!

So we managed to cook almost every night of our stay. This meant no late-night driving up the strange roads, and tons more cuddling on the couch. There is also a weber braai outside, but it was a little cold for that.

However, there are some fantastic places close by for you to grab something to eat. We visited a few of them for lunch, in fact.

Some of the best food options nearby include:

• Totties Farm Kitchen
• The Red Barn
• Cruise Cafe

Surrounding things to do in Knysna

So, as I mentioned, it was hard to find exactly what to do if you wanted to spend a day in Knysna. Many of the ‘top things to do’ lists gave me activities in Plett, or nearby. These are great options, we visited the Wolf Sanctuary, which I’d highly recommend. We also went all the way past Plettenberg Bay to visit the Puzzle Park – also a highlight.

But, there are also tons of things to do in Knysna. Some of which include:

• Shop at the waterfront
• Visit the Red Bridge Brewery
• Take a lagoon boat ride
• See the Thesen House
• Relax on the beach
• Hike or picnic in one of the many nature reserves

Stay at Cliffhanger Cottages

Even though this majestic place was chosen for us, we honestly could not have found a better spot!

The Cliffhanger Cottages are a great option for couples journeying through the Garden Route, whether on honeymoon, an anniversary, or just a romantic getaway.