Featherbed Nature Reserve

The world famous landmark, the spectacular Knysna heads are two giant sandstone cliffs which mark the Knysna River's entrance. Featherbed Nature Reserve, a unique 150 ha private Nature Reserve, encompasses the whole of the Western Head of Knysna and is one of South Africa's Natural Heritage Sites. It is home to two of the Garden Route's icons, namely the Knysna Loerie and the Blue Duiker, one of Africa's smallest antelope species. Other wildlife found on the Reserve include Cape Mountain Tortoises, Blue Cranes (South Africa's national bird), rare Black African Oyster Catchers (listed in the endangered Red Data List), White breasted cormorant, Bushbuck and more!

Where else could you have lunch under the Milkwood Trees with the elusive, majestic and brightly coloured Knysna Loeries? Walk amid fynbos and into the "Beachcomber" caves while imagining the days of yesteryear and learn about the secrets of Coffin Bay..

Due to the tremendous popularity of this premier attraction in the Garden Route, we follow a regular daily schedule to cater for all our visitors.

The survival of the Western Head as a 'green area' depends on it's visitors. We guarantee a fabulous experience for all.

The featherbed experience ... this spectacular four hour eco-experience includes:

• A return ferry - 30 minutes each way
• 4 X 4 Unimog trailer trail
• 2.2km guided nature walk
• Buffet lunch in the milkwood forest

Upon arrival, guests board a Unimog drawn trailer and drive up to the top of the Reserve. While stopping at a scenic lookout point, our specialist guides will share with you some fascinating tales about Knysna and the surrounding area while you enjoy the panoramic views.

An optional 2,2 km guided nature walk takes you through the forest, onto the cliffs, into the caves and along the scenic coast.

Once back in the Food Forest, a unique outdoor restaurant situated under the Milkwood Trees, guests can enjoy a spectacular 12 dish buffet.

After lunch the ferry returns to the Featherbed Ferry Terminus on Remembrance Avenue, 400m west of the Knysna Waterfront.

The Featherbed Experience is regarded as one of the Garden Route's premier tourist attractions. Booking is therefore recommended.

What to bring: We recommend comfortable walking shoes, camera (lots of film), hats in summer and a warm jacket for the ferry trips.

Browse through our unique 'Blue Duiker' Curio Shop where a variety of curios can be purchased including clothing, and the famous carved 'Feathers of Knysna' collection.

Luxury Lagoon Cruises

• The Paddle Cruiser

       

  The Paddle Cruiser, the first paddle-driven cruiser to have been built in South Africa, may look like a traditional craft, but she is a decidedly modern and advanced luxury vessel which exceeds the highest standards of safety set by the South African Maritime Safety Authority. She appeals to the discerning client that is looking for something unique, different and special. Unconventional conferencing, mediteranean cuisine, and service par excellénce - she is an experience without equal.

• John Benn Luxury Floating Restaurant

       

  This unique vessel has carried many local and international travelers on the Knysna lagoon over the years. The John Benn herself is beautifully appointed with upper and lower decks constructed of Yellowwood sourced from the Knysna Forest.

  Passengers can enjoy sumptuous savoury or sweet pancakes while cruising sedately past yachts and oyster beds on a 1˝ hour lagoon cruise to The Heads.

  Daily lunchtime and sundowner Cruises
  Commentary and background music on board
  Full bar facilities available, oysters and champagne on request
  An ideal venue for functions, weddings and office parties
  Departs from the Knysna Waterfront (weather permitting)
  Lunchtime cruise coincides with the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe train.
  

• William Smith's Rivercat Ferries

  

  Ferry trips not just TO the Heads but INTO them! No other ferries can take you there. 60 - 90 minute trips. Change in duration of trips on request. Regular daily trips, can be timed to suit the schedule of your tour group.

  Experienced Class VI skippers
  Accommodates 10-200 pax
  Interactive Commentary / Music
  High off the water for excellent views.
  Catamaran stability and safety with roll-down weather blinds
  Bar facilities by prior arrangement
  Oysters and champagne on request
  Can stop at Featherbed Nature Reserve
  

• Zakat

       

  Trips to the famous Knysna Heads
  Zakat takes you through the Heads
  Romantic Champagne & Oyster trip
  Educational and Special trips can be arranged
  Available for private parties and functions
  Snack Bar & Fully licenced Cash Bar on board

P.O. Box 753 Knysna 6570
Tel: +27 44 382 1693/7
Fax: +27 44 382 2373
E-mail: bookings@featherbed.co.za

For further information go to http://www.featherbed.co.za