The town of Knysna is along the Garden Route in South Africa between Mossel Bay and Storms River, the Garden Route runs parallel to a coastline featuring lakes, mountains, golden beaches, cliffs and dense indigenous forests.

The Garden Route has a Mediterranean maritime climate, with moderately hot summers and mild cold winters. It is one of the richest areas of rain, most of which occurs in the winter months, brought by the sea, the winds off the ocean Indian.

This natural paradise is home to the largest and smallest of creatures, from the Knysna seahorse to the Knysna elephants, rare delicate butterflies and the endemic Knysna Loeri, a forest bird colors. Over 200 species are found in the abundant fynbos and forest settings. Knysna is also famous for its delicious home-grown oysters, enjoyed with local beers in the many pubs and restaurants. An eclectic mix of art galleries shows the diversity of talent in the area. The area also offers lagoon cruises, forest hikes, golf and adventure sports. A visit to the springs Knysna is a must.

Any time of year is good to visit the area, depending if you enjoy a peaceful retreat during the winter months, or a bustling holiday destination during the summer.

The name Knysna is a Khoi word but it is uncertain as to its exact meaning. This could mean "place wood, or it could mean 'fern leaves, but its most likely down "- an obvious reference to the Chiefs. Knysna Heads be the most striking geological features along the coast of southern Africa. Flanking a deep channel, but potentially treacherous through which the sea pours in to flood the wide and astonishingly beautiful lake at the mouth of the Knysna River.

Knysna story began in 1804, the year that saw the arrival of George Rex, is rumored to be the illegitimate son of King George III. He bought the estate known as Melkhoutkraal on the banks of the lagoon and moved to all his family and his considerable entourage Knysna towards an agreement.

Knysna is one of the southern Cape coast most popular holiday destinations, situated between lush forests and the banks of the peaceful lagoon – it offers many activities and attractions of a great variety.

The most popular attraction are the heads – two great sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon which connects the estuary with the sea.

A lookout has been erected in the East Head, with spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna. The Western Head is a privately owned Nature Reserve – Featherbed Bay. The Knysna Lagoon is one of the few places along the coast and in the world that supports an oyster hatchery. And the Knysna oysters are reportedly among the tastiest in the world.

Millwood House Museum Queen Street material related to the history of the city, and features objects once owned by George Rex. Yellowwood Built between the end of the previous century during the gold rush. Millwood, more He was later moved to Knysna.

Knysna has many attractions nearby, well, one of the most spectacular is the Knysna Forest, which is still evident in many places within the city too. It is the largest indigenous forest in South Africa comprising of tall old trees of local species and exotic including stinkwood, yellowwood, blackwood, ironwood, white alders and Cape chestnut. Not forgetting the ferns, vines and wildflowers, which give color to this endless green collage. The forest is large and very dense in places making it impenetrable.

Animal life is limited to a few small antelope and a variety of birds, including the famous Knysna Loeri. Home to large herds of elephants instead of Knysna, is believed to have only one lonely cow remains today.

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Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za

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Kayaking on the Blackwood River 2009

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