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From241US$ /night
Check-in
22Dec2025Select date
Check-out
23Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Th36 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands, Knysna, South Africa, 6570
-
Near the Knysna Waterfront
Perfect
9.1
9.2
/10
4.6
4.5
/5

Turbine Hotel & Spa is a 5-star boutique hotel situated on Thesen Island, offering luxurious accommodations and a renowned spa. Guests benefit from exceptional dining at two on-site restaurants and a variety of activities on the Knysna lagoon. The hotel's unique industrial design features restored power station equipment and engaging decor.

Rooms & Amenities

Each of the 26 rooms and suites comes with luxurious amenities, including a flat-screen TV, free WiFi, a fully-stocked mini-bar, and a tea and coffee station. The decor reflects the hotel's history, with individual themes inspired by the surrounding landscape, including the Lagoon Wing featuring aquatic hues. Six Luxury Rooms provide a spacious setting with lounge areas, while the Honeymoon Suite offers a balcony with views over the pool.

Dining Options

Dining options at Turbine Hotel & Spa include the 90-seater Island Café, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with views of the canals, and the Gastro Pub, ideal for casual drinks and snacks. Both venues utilize fresh local produce in their inventive menus. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining or relax on the deck overlooking the marina.

Leisure & Activities

The Turbine Spa features a wide variety of treatments, such as massages and facials, set within an exotically mosaic-tiled Rasul Steam Room. The hotel also offers activities including lagoon cruises and whale watching, catering to various interests. Guests can explore the nearby Pezula Championship Course for golf or participate in outdoor adventures.

Business & Services

For business guests, Turbine Hotel & Spa provides conference facilities with two rooms capable of accommodating up to 40 delegates. The hotel staff assists with event coordination and offers recommendations for local attractions and excursions. This venue serves as an excellent base for those wishing to explore the indigenous natural beauty of Knysna.

“The Turbine Hotel & Spa stands out for its clever reuse of a former power station, now a luxury boutique hotel on Thesen Island. It has comfortable rooms with unique industrial-chic design and a great on-site spa, plus it's an easy walk to the restaurants and shops around Knysna. I think its dedication to both comfort and history makes it a compelling choice.”
Hotel logo
Sophia TurnerEditorial Director at Spahotels
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Choose your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Luxury Room
2 persons
36 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room
2 persons
28 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Suite
2 persons
60 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating

Price and Room Availability

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Canoeing
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Children's menu
  • Children's play area

Spa & Leisure

  • Seasonal outdoor pool
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Steam room
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Garden furniture
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Dining Onsite

Experience culinary delights at the Turbine Hotel & Spa, featuring two distinct dining venues. Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Col Cacchio, perfect for families seeking comfort and warmth. Alternatively, savor a diverse a la carte menu at Island Café, ideal for those looking to explore extraordinary flavors and unique dishes.
Turbine Hotel & Spa Knysna Restaurant photo The photo captures a unique dining experience set within what appears to be an industrial or mechanical space. Two small tables are arranged in the foreground, each set for a meal. 

One table is made of dark wood and features two place settings. Eac

Col Cacchio

Italian
Ambiance
Family-friendly environment with a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Key Offerings
A selection of authentic Italian dishes, perfect for family gatherings or casual meals.
Reservation
Not needed.
Hours vary.

Island Cafe

Diverse a la carte
Ambiance
A relaxed setting that invites guests to unwind amidst Knysna's natural beauty.
Key Offerings
An array of carefully prepared dishes tailored for all occasions, showcasing a variety of flavors.
Reservation
Recommended.
Hours vary.

Location

Th36 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands, Knysna, South Africa, 6570
Map view
Th36 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands, Knysna, South Africa, 6570
Nearby
The Parking Shed
The Motorcycle Room
110 m
TH 2 Long Street Thesen Harbour Town
Jandreart Studio
110 m
Island
Thesen's Island
110 m
TH44 Long St
Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching Knysna
110 m
Shop Th24 Saffron Street
Scootours
110 m
Restaurants
The Island Cafe
10 m
Sawtooth Lane Thesen Islands
Tapas & Oysters
120 m
Thesen Harbour Town TH29 Thesen Harbour Town
The Project Bar
190 m
TH 28
Ile de Pain
220 m
8-10 The Boatshed Thesen Harbour Town
34 South
1.1 km
Waterfront
The Drydock Food Co
1.2 km
Waterfront Shop 1
O Pescador Restaurant
1.1 km
Waterfront Drive
Falcon Creek Spur Steak Ranch
1.2 km
Waterfront Dr Shop 29A
Asami's House
1.2 km
Waterfront Drive Knysna Central
Explore Knysna
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Knysna Waterfront
Knysna Waterfront
15 minutes' walk
Popular shopping and dining destination with beautiful views, lively atmosphere, and art galleries.
Spitzkop Viewpoint
Spitzkop Viewpoint
15 minutes' walk
Scenic viewpoint offering stunning panoramas of Knysna and the lagoon, perfect for photography.
Dalene Matthee Memorial
Dalene Matthee Memorial
15 minutes' walk
Tribute to the renowned author celebrating local nature and conservation through beautifully carved symbols.
Old Gaol and Art Gallery
Old Gaol and Art Gallery
15 minutes' walk
Historical site turned gallery showcasing local and national artists in a charming setting.
Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching
2 minutes' walk
Thrilling whale watching tours led by expert guides. Seasonal availability; book in advance.
Scootours
2 minutes' walk
Fun downhill scooter rides through stunning landscapes, great for both families and adventure seekers.
Thesen's Island Yoga
2 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga sessions surrounded by nature. Drop-in classes available; perfect for stress relief.
The Island Cafe
The Island Cafe
1 minute' walk
Charming café with a relaxed ambiance. Offers fresh, local dishes and popular breakfast options.
Tapas & Oysters
Tapas & Oysters
2 minutes' walk
Cozy eatery specializing in fresh seafood and tapas. Ideal for casual dining, reservations recommended.
Ile de Pain
Ile de Pain
3 minutes' walk
French-inspired bakery and restaurant known for artisanal breads and pastries. Great breakfast and lunch spot.
The Project Bar
The Project Bar
3 minutes' walk
Trendy bar with a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring live music and craft cocktails in an inviting space.
Knysna Fine Art
Knysna Fine Art
15 minutes' walk
Art gallery displaying contemporary South African art. Regular exhibitions and events for art lovers.

Getting around
City Centre
Knysna18 min  ·  1.5 km
Airports
Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ)52 min  ·  34.4 km
George Airport (GRJ)109 min  ·  72.1 km

Reviews and Ratings

Reviews from guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
9.1
9.1/10 based on 873 reviews
Parker
United Kingdom, November  2024
8.6/10

I had an incredible stay at this hotel! The communication prior to my arrival was fantastic, and the staff truly made me feel welcome. The location is picturesque, surrounded by charming waterways and lovely holiday homes. The spa experience was absolutely blissful, and I highly recommend it. However, I did encounter some minor issues with room noise that could be improved upon.

Rooms
7.0
The room I stayed in was quite small, with a view over the pool and local canals, which was lovely. However, I did find the noise from the air conditioning duct a bit disruptive.
Service
10.0
The service from all the staff was exceptional. They were always helpful and accommodating, making my stay much more enjoyable.
Location
9.0
The hotel is set in a unique location surrounded by waterways, offering a relaxing atmosphere. It's also great for strolling around nearby restaurants.
Dining
9.0
I had an excellent dining experience during my stay, particularly enjoying the breakfast spread. It was a treat to start the day!
Facilities
8.0
The spa facilities were delightful. I really appreciated the variety of treatments available, making it a perfect escape.
Ella
United Kingdom, October  2024
8.2/10

Our special trip to this boutique hotel was filled with charm and unique features, but it had its quirks. The rooms were delightful and comfortable, and the staff, particularly Lungo and Emanuel, really made our stay memorable. However, there were issues with communication from the front desk and some unusual maintenance needs around the pool area. Overall, it was a great experience, but with a few bumps along the way.

Rooms
9.0
The room we stayed in was really comfortable and had a lovely view of the marina. We enjoyed relaxing in our robes and catching a movie, which added a nice touch to our stay.
Service
8.0
The service was fantastic, with friendly staff members who were eager to help us have a wonderful time. Lungo and Emanuel particularly stood out as engaging and cheerful, making us feel welcome.
Location
9.0
The location of the hotel was beautiful, nestled within a marina with lovely restaurants nearby, creating a relaxed vibe. It felt serene being surrounded by waterways and hills.
Dining
8.0
The dining options were quite good, with delicious food and a pleasant atmosphere. We enjoyed our meals, especially the cocktails by the bar.
Facilities
7.0
The facilities were modern and well-maintained, with a pool area that was a highlight, though we did encounter some issues with cleanliness around it due to ducks.
Nicholas
United Kingdom, September  2024
8.0/10

I had a unique experience staying at this hotel, particularly enjoying the stunning views and comfortable room, though the service at the restaurant was frustratingly slow during my visits. The location on Thesen Island is amazing, with easy access to various nearby shops and restaurants. However, I was a bit let down by the dining experience as it didn't live up to my expectations, and I hope they can improve this aspect in the future.

Rooms
8.0
The room was comfortable with stunning views across the water, but I wished it had more functional space and an outside area.
Service
5.0
While some staff were friendly, the service at the restaurant was disappointingly slow, affecting my overall experience.
Location
10.0
The hotel's location on Thesen Island is unbeatable, offering beautiful views and easy access to shops and restaurants.
Dining
5.0
I found the dining experience quite disappointing due to the slow service and some missed items in my order, though the breakfast itself was tasty.
Facilities
9.0
The hotel features a charming decor that celebrates its industrial history, and there are cozy spaces to relax, including a pub.
Luna
United Kingdom, September  2024
8.8/10

I had a fabulous stay at this charming hotel, which boasts a unique atmosphere and is conveniently located near lovely restaurants and the marina. The room was spacious and delightful, with a special touch of bubbly waiting for us. Although the dining options were limited, the quality of the food and service was exceptional. I would happily return for a relaxing getaway and to enjoy the wonderful Oyster Festival.

Rooms
9.0
The room was spacious and well-appointed, providing all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
Service
10.0
The service was outstanding, with a warm welcome and attentive staff who made our visit special.
Location
10.0
The hotel is perfectly located within walking distance to many excellent restaurants, making it super convenient.
Dining
7.0
While the dining options were somewhat limited, the breakfast and dinner we had were exquisite and complemented by a fantastic wine selection.
Facilities
8.0
The facilities were charming, with a lovely spa that, despite its size, provided a great experience.
Liam
United Kingdom, September  2024
7.6/10

This unique hotel is a converted power plant that boasts a modern design and a great atmosphere. The rooms are clean and stylish, while the dining experience has its highs and lows-delicious food but slow service. The location on Thesen Island is beautiful and convenient, though the restaurant's efficiency needs improvement. Overall, it's a charming place to stay, but the dining could use a quicker pace.

Rooms
8.0
The rooms were beautifully appointed, extremely clean, and spacious enough to accommodate our large suitcases. However, being above the restaurant made it challenging to sleep in due to the morning commotion.
Service
6.0
While the staff was attentive and friendly, the dining service was frustratingly slow, particularly during breakfast.
Location
9.0
The hotel is situated in a peaceful and beautiful area overlooking the lagoon, within easy walking distance to a charming shopping area with various eateries.
Dining
7.0
The breakfast offerings were fresh and tasty, but the slow service really detracted from the experience. I expected a quicker turnaround, especially for a hotel of this caliber.
Facilities
8.0
The hotel has modern amenities and a relaxing spa atmosphere, contributing to a luxurious overall experience.
Unique design
Slow dining service
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Choose your spa escape today!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-19:00
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Turbine & Spa guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Dutch, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu
Number of rooms:
26
FAQs
About Turbine Hotel & Spa
What are the check-in and check-out times at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
Is there a swimming pool available at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
There is a seasonal outdoor pool available for guests.
Does Turbine Hotel & Spa offer complimentary internet access?
Wi-Fi is available for free in all rooms.
What dining options are available at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
Guests can enjoy on-site dining at the Island Café and Col'Cacchio, as well as tapas and drinks at a fully stocked wine cellar.
How far is Turbine Hotel & Spa from Plettenberg Bay?
Turbine Hotel & Spa is located 35 km from Plettenberg Bay.
What activities can guests enjoy at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
Guests can partake in activities such as canoeing, fishing, and cycling.
Is parking available at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What services does Turbine Hotel & Spa provide for business travelers?
The hotel offers meeting and conference facilities for business-related events.
What is the distance from Turbine Hotel & Spa to the nearest attractions?
Knysna Lagoon and the Motorcycle Room Gallery are within 1 km of the hotel.
How can guests arrange airport transportation from Turbine Hotel & Spa?
The hotel offers a paid airport shuttle service.
What language do the staff at Turbine Hotel & Spa speak?
The staff speaks English.

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Turbine Hotel & Spa Knysna Swimming Pool photo The Cape Heritage

Turbine Hotel & Spa

9.1
Perfect873 reviews
1.5 km from center
217 US$
241 US$
per night
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