South Africa Accommodation

Garden Route

In the hamlet of Belvidere on the Knysna lagoon, lies the old manor house, Belvidere House, built by the founder of Belvidere, Thomas Duthie in 1849.  This Georgian house is now the reception of Belvidere Manor Hotel, a beautiful property offering the traveller a relaxed and tranquil holiday.

Guests are accommodated in private whitewashed cottages situated in colourful gardens with stunning views overlooking the lagoon.  Each single or double storey cottage offers a wide airy veranda, a comfortable living room with fireplace, satellite television and DVD player, a fully equipped kitchen and a choice of one, two or three en-suite double bedrooms.

Named after the first mistress of Belvidere "Caroline's" Restaurant offers an a la carte menu each evening in the gracious dining-rooms or on the veranda. Enjoying fine cuisine and wine on a summer's evening, whilst the moon rises over the lagoon is one of the most romantic settings in the country. The small drawing-room served as the Post Office for the area in the 1800’s, and copies of mail with the Belvidere stamp may be seen on the walls.

A favourite meeting place for guests and locals alike is The Bell Tavern, Knysna's smallest pub.  Serving light meals throughout the day, this cosy tavern features indigenous wood and a wine cellar viewed through a glass panel in the floor.

Belvidere Manor is popular not only for its relaxed and tranquil atmosphere but for its feeling of home away from home.  Guests enjoy the privacy of their own cottage, but the advantages of personal service and superb cuisine.  A sparkling swimming-pool, tennis courts and boat trips may add to the fun, but a good book, log fire and a glass of wine is often all that is required.