Turbine Hotel & Spa Knysna Swimming Pool photoTurbine Hotel & Spa Knysna Exterior photoTurbine Hotel & Spa Knysna Exterior photo

Turbine Hotel & Spa, Knysna

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From$241 /night
Check-in
03Sept
Check-out
04Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Th36 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands, Knysna, 6570
-
Close to the Knysna National Lake Area
Perfect
9.2
9.2
/10
4.8
4.5
/5

5-star boutique hotel on Thesen Island with heritage charm

Accommodation

The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa offers 24 individually themed rooms and suites, including 17 Standard Rooms, 6 Luxury Rooms, a Honeymoon Suite, and 2 self-contained Suites. Each room is designed to reflect the historical significance of the site, featuring luxurious amenities like king-size beds, en suite bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. Some accommodations also include balconies with views over the canals or the Knysna Lagoon.

Dining Options

Dining at the hotel includes the 90-seater Island Café, which offers a diverse à la carte menu with views over the canal, and the Gastro Pub, known for its casual atmosphere and gourmet finger foods. Guests can enjoy an al fresco dining experience on the café terrace or relax at the pub while catching up on sports. Every meal emphasizes fresh, quality local ingredients and innovative dishes.

Spa and Wellness

The Turbine Spa provides a wide range of body, facial, and beauty treatments in a serene setting. This includes unique features like a Rasul Steam Room, ideal for couples, and an extensive treatment menu designed to cater to diverse wellness needs. Guests can also explore various pampering packages, combining spa treatments with dining experiences.

Location and Activities

Situated on Thesen Island, the hotel offers easy access to a variety of outdoor activities such as bike rentals, lagoon cruises, and whale-watching tours. The island's flat terrain makes it ideal for leisurely exploration, with scenic routes leading to attractions around Knysna. The hotel also features a jetty for motorized pontoon cruises.

Business Facilities

With its historical charm, the hotel is equipped with two conference rooms, the Boiler Room and the Yellowwood Room. Each room can accommodate 20 delegates around tables or up to 40 in cinema-style seating. Advanced audio-visual facilities are available, providing an effective business setting.

Highlights

Accommodation: 24 individually themed suites

Dining: 90-seater Island Café & Gastro Pub

Wellness: Turbine Spa with unique treatments

Activities: Lagoon cruises & whale watching

Business: Conference facilities for 20-40 delegates

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the Knysna Heads for breathtaking views of the ocean.
  • Try the fresh oysters at the Knysna Waterfront restaurants.
  • Explore the Knysna Elephant Park to meet gentle giants up close.
  • Stroll through the Knysna Market on Saturdays for local crafts.
  • Take a sunset cruise on the lagoon for a magical experience.

Select your room type

Turbine Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Luxury Room
    2 persons
    36 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Bathtub
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    28 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Bathtub
  • Suite
    2 persons
    60 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Balcony

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Turbine Hotel & Spa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.3/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 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

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • 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
Show more

Dining Onsite

The Turbine Hotel & Spa offers two delightful dining options that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions. From the vibrant Italian cuisine at Col Cacchio to the eclectic a la carte offerings at the Island Café, each venue provides a unique ambiance and exceptional culinary experiences for guests to savor.
  • Col Cacchio

    Italian
    Ambiance
    Family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for gatherings with loved ones.
    Key Offerings
    Signature pizzas, fresh pastas, and a cozy setting invite shared meals and delightful conversations.
    Reservation
    No
    Hours vary.
  • Island Café

    Eclectic a la carte
    Ambiance
    Charming and relaxed, ideal for casual dining or special gatherings.
    Key Offerings
    An extraordinary menu features a wide choice of carefully prepared dishes for all occasions, from refreshing salads to hearty mains.
    Reservation
    No
    Hours vary.

Turbine Hotel & Spa Location

Th36 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands, Knysna, 6570
Explore Knysna
Local Experiences
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Knysna Waterfront
Knysna Waterfront
15 minutes' walk
Vibrant hub featuring shops, restaurants, and beautiful lagoon views, perfect for leisurely strolls and memorable photos.
Spitzkop Viewpoint
Spitzkop Viewpoint
15 minutes' walk
Stunning lookout offering panoramic views of the Knysna lagoon and surrounding areas, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Dalene Matthee Memorial
Dalene Matthee Memorial
15 minutes' walk
A tribute to the renowned author with scenic views, perfect for a peaceful moment reflecting on her literary contributions.
Knysna Fine Art
Knysna Fine Art
15 minutes' walk
Art gallery showcasing local talent and exquisite artworks, a must-visit for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching
2 minutes' walk
Thrilling boat tours offering encounters with majestic whales, suitable for both families and adventure-seekers.
Scootours
2 minutes' walk
Exciting downhill scooter rides through beautiful landscapes, a fun way for thrill-seekers to enjoy the outdoors.
Yoga at the Island
2 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga sessions near the water, providing a tranquil experience for those seeking peace and wellness.
The Island Cafe
1 minute' walk
Charming café with a laid-back vibe, serving fresh, seasonal dishes and delicious coffee, perfect for a casual meal.
Tapas & Oysters
2 minutes' walk
Trendy spot known for its tapas and fresh oysters, vibrant atmosphere, and local flavors, ideal for shared dining.
Ile de Pain
3 minutes' walk
Cozy bakery and restaurant famous for artisanal bread and pastries, offering delightful breakfast and lunch options.
The Project Bar
3 minutes' walk
Lively bar with a vibrant atmosphere, featuring local music acts and a variety of cocktails, perfect for nightlife.
Jandreart Studio
Jandreart Studio
2 minutes' walk
Art studio showcasing local artists' work, hosting workshops and events, suitable for all ages looking for cultural engagement.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Knysna 18 min  ·  5000 ft
  • Airports
    Plettenberg Bay (PBZ) 52 min  ·  21.4 mi
    George (GRJ) 108 min  ·  44.7 mi
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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
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs ZAR 300.0 per person.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Dutch, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu
Number of rooms:
26

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Turbine Hotel & Spa from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 379 verified reviews
9.1 /10
Perfect
94 %
Recommend
Breakfast
8.4/10
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Comfort
9.5/10
Facilities
9.3/10
Free WiFi
9.1/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.8/10
Guest reviews
based on 379 reviews
9.1/10
based on 715 reviews
9.2/10
Stanley from United Kingdom
Couple
Lagoon Suite
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 22, 2026
9.5/10

Really good Stay

spacious suite washing machine machinery features industrial building
I found the lagoon suite very spacious. The suite included a washing machine, useful during my garden route driving holiday. The original turbine machinery features are well done. The hotel has an interesting design. I liked the repurposed industrial building.
My room had a slight humming noise.
Rooms
9/10
My room featured a king-size bed. There was a separate seating area with a sofa. The bathroom included two separate sinks and a rainfall shower. I had ample space for luggage.
Dining
10/10
The breakfast was great (especially the pancakes!). The onsite restaurant had an amazing food selection. The Island Cafe serves a perfect breakfast with a smoothie. I saw a great menu.
Location
9/10
The hotel is close to everything on Thesen Island. I had fine views from my room. It is walking distance to hotspots for lunch or dinner. The position is friendly.
Service
10/10
The staff were excellent. Theo was amazing. The staff was accommodating. I noticed the staff's willingness to assist. The staff were friendly. I will return for the prompt staff.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
Thomas from United Kingdom
Couple
Luxury Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 21, 2026
9/10
welcome wine great cocktail safe location
the hotel provides a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival it was a lovely touch the bar staff made great cocktails for us the restaurant provided excellent food and service. the location not sketchy at all and it was close to restaurants on thesen island. the converted power plant offers different architecture and a top location.
i noticed some noise from other guests walking past the room at times but it was minimal.
0 Helpful
Harper from United States
Couple
luxury room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 04, 2026
9/10
varied choices separate sinks easy access
the breakfast buffet offered MANY choices. the room included two separate sinks. the hotel provided easy access to boat trips.
the wi-fi signal strength was weak in certain areas.
0 Helpful
Grayson from United States
Family with children
suite
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 21, 2025
9.3/10

industrial charm

lush settee beautiful artwork fantastic food professional staff
the converted power station had a unique beauty! it featured lush settees and armchairs with artistic upholstery. the food was fantastic with an excellent chef! the staff displayed real professionalism and care. the location is convenient to restaurants and waterfront.
Service
9/10
the receptionists were very well trained and friendly. the staff ensured i had everything i needed, and they were attentive.
Location
9/10
the hotel sits in close proximity to restaurants. it's also only five minutes away from the waterfront. the hotel is well situated and within walking distance to the square.
Facilities
10/10
the building has an interesting ambiance and a unique design. the breakfast was excellent, and the hotel maintained its original industrial features. restored machinery and bold colors created a whimsical, detailed atmosphere.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Karl from Germany
Double Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 13, 2025
9/10
safe deposit box breakfast variety live music
the room included a safe for valuables. breakfast service offered a wide variety of choices. the hotel has a bar with live music on weekends. i found parking readily available near the entrance.
The gym is small. It only has one treadmill.
0 Helpful
Nathaniel from United States
Couple
Suite
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: August 20, 2025
7/10
top class food interesting venue convenient parking unsmiling staff smelly rooms dirty corridor
I enjoyed the food very much. It was top class. The hotel has an interesting venue and good location. The parking was convenient because it was right next door.
I found the front desk staff were not smiling! The rooms smelled. I booked two rooms, and both smelled. The corridor carpets are dirty.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Turbine Hotel & Spa
What are the check-in and check-out times at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
Check-in is available from 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Turbine Hotel & Spa from the nearest airport?
The hotel is 65 km from George Airport.
What dining options does Turbine Hotel & Spa offer?
The hotel features 3 restaurants, including the Island Café serving Italian cuisine at Col Cacchio.
Are there any notable attractions near Turbine Hotel & Spa?
Nearby attractions include the Knysna Lagoon, Bloukrans Bridge, and the Knysna National Lake Area.
What facilities are available at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
The hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool, a spa, a business center, and a children's playground.
What room amenities can guests expect at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi, and a mini bar.
Is breakfast included in the stay at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
A full English breakfast is available for an additional charge of 300 ZAR.
What services are provided for families at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
The hotel offers babysitting, children's menus, and a play area.
Does Turbine Hotel & Spa offer spa services?
Guests can enjoy a full-service spa with treatments such as massages and beauty services.
Is there a smoking policy at Turbine Hotel & Spa?
The hotel is a non-smoking facility.

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