The Garden Route is South Africa's most spectacular scenic drive, passing along the coast of the Western Cape from Mossel Bay near Cape Town, to Storms River at Tsitsikamma National Park – the town of Knysna is its jewel. Sat on a glassy lagoon, the towering Knysna Heads guarding its calm waters from the waves of the Indian Ocean, and backed by hills swathed in ancient indigenous forest, its position is as exquisite as the town is charming.

In such surroundings, it’s not a surprise to discover that much of what there is to do in Knysna is outdoors, with plentiful beaches to enjoy, forest to explore and lagoon to cruise. The town itself is a delight to wander, its streets lined with cafes, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Once a centre of the timber industry, the couple of woodwork shops, selling furniture made from local woods, are a must to pop in and browse.