The Knysna Forest came alive this past weekend as thousands of runners, visitors, and locals gathered for one of South Africa’s most iconic events — the Knysna Forest Marathon, held on Saturday, 5 July 2025, as part of the much-loved Knysna Oyster Festival. If you stayed at a central Knysna guesthouse like Knysna Manor House, you would have been right in the heart of the action — just a short walk from...
Knysna Fire
Knysna Fire - 7th June 2017
This past week Knysna experienced one of the worse fires in the history of the area. Strong winds, and severe drought conditions enabled this ferocious monster to move easily across the whole of our beautiful town. The fire did not discriminate between anyone or anything. Forests and vegetation were destroyed, as well as many homes, including many guesthouses / B&B's.
Our historical guesthouse was spared, but we were fearful when our managers (i.e. my mom, stepdad and Marlene) had to vacate due to strong winds, thick smoke and spark filled air. With the two dogs in the car, they left our 130 year old guesthouse, and took shelter with friends in a safer area. We were all worried sick, as the whole foundation of the guesthouse is constructed with wood from the time it was built. Any spark could have turned this historical building into an inferno.
We were among the fortunate ones, because on arrival back to the guesthouse the following morning, apart from the still thick smoke, and layers of burnt debris, we were safe.
There is not one person in Knysna who has not felt the affect of the fire, those who could helped wherever they could from coordinating, fighting fires, feeding those who had lost everything, to managing social media pages.
Thank you Knysna for pulling together in such devastating circumstances.
Further Reading
What an exciting year ahead for Knysna and surrounds, with many annual and new events just around the corner. Knysna Manor House is the perfect place to base yourself, whether travelling solo, or with large groups of friends and family, we can accommodate up to thirty people, whilst still surrounding yourself with the comforts of home. https://www.visitknysna.co.za/whats-on/events/
2023 Knysna oyster festival celebrates 40 years of family fun Knysna Municipality - 24th May 2023 Celebrating its 40th birthday this year, the popular Knysna Oyster Festival kicks off on the 30th of June with an action-packed programme! One of the longest-running festivals in South Africa, this family festival appeals to all ages.
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