Overlooking the serene Knysna Lagoon in the exclusive Belvidere Estate, Belvidere Manor Lagoonside Cottages is a charming 4-star historic property (4/5 on Tripadvisor) located in Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa. Built around a proclaimed National Monument manor house dating back to 1849, this tranquil estate combines Cape Georgian architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views with cosy self-catering cottages and on-site dining, making it a timeless escape for those seeking history, relaxation, and natural beauty on the Garden Route.
Accommodation details: Freestanding single- and double-storey self-catering cottages (1-3 bedrooms, sleeping 2-6 guests each); fully equipped kitchenettes, en-suite bathrooms, private verandas (many with lagoon views), lounge areas; total capacity across ~25 cottages.
Dining options: Full farmhouse breakfast included (served in the historic Manor House); on-site Caroline's bistro for à la carte dinners; The Bell Tavern (Knysna's smallest pub) for pub meals, snacks, and craft beers.
Facilities: Outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace overlooking the lagoon, beautifully landscaped gardens, bar.
Services: Free WiFi, free private parking, concierge for activities/tours.
Unique features: Historic 1849 Manor House (National Monument); unrivalled lagoon views; abundant birdlife (over 170 species); quaint restored pub with yellowwood ceiling and fireplace; peaceful estate setting.
Couples seeking a romantic, historic getaway
Families wanting self-catering flexibility with on-site dining
History and architecture enthusiasts
Nature lovers enjoying lagoon views and birdwatching
Attraction
Approximate Distance (km)
Knysna Charters
10
Knysna Heads
8
Featherbed
9
The Motorcycle Room
10
Monkeyland
35
Knysna Elephant Park
28
Storms River National Park
95
George Airport
65
Addo Elephant Park
255
Cango Caves
145
Hermanus
385
Franschhoek
425
Table Mountain
485
V&A Waterfront
490
Kruger National Park
1,305
Authentic excerpts from Tripadvisor reviews:
"We stayed in a cute little cottage at the top of a slope overlooking the Knysna lagoon... As it was our honeymoon, there was a bottle of bubbly in our fridge, which was a lovely touch. The Bell pub is small and can get very crowded, but it serves decent versions of pub classics." (Recent honeymoon guest)
"Belvidere Manor is beautifully situated on the Knysna lagoon, and the cottages are beautifully appointed and private. The food at the Manor as well as the Bell Tavern, is spectacular and the staff are professional and efficient." (Tripadvisor reviewer)
"Our stay at Belvidere Manor was fabulous in every way. Quiet and peaceful, only the sound of birdsong. Beautiful gardens and magnificent views of Knysna lagoon. Lovely accommodation." (Multiple guests)
"The cottages are really well appointed and have self catering facilities... we always enjoy breakfasts at the manor and occasional evening meals at the irish pub there. We really like this area so close to Knysna and the nearby excellent beaches." (Repeat visitor)
Physical address: 169 Lower Duthie Drive, Belvidere Estate, Knysna, 6570, South Africa
Phone number(s): +27 44 387 1055 / +27 64 836 4664
Email address: manager@belvidere.co.za
Website URL: https://belvidere.co.za/
Social media handles: Facebook @belvideremanor
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GPS Coordinates: -34.0477, 22.9980