Oozing with opulence and sublime comforts!
A historical holiday villa on the pristine, secluded sands of Noetzie Beach, Craighross Castle in Knysna is the ideal getaway destination, along South Africa’s Garden Route.
Although contemporary in its form, and oozing with opulence and sublime comforts, Craighross Castle nods to a monarchal time with its stone attire and generous elements of grandeur. With sweeping views of the ocean, the landscape of Knysna’s forests on the doorstep and direct access to the beach below, this hideaway escorts you and your seaside clan on a dreamy voyage of pure escapism.
In keeping with the palatial theme of its neighbouring counterparts, Craighross Castle cushions itself into the wilderness and cocoons you in a luxurious embrace. Set over a couple of levels of living, dining, reclining and entertaining spaces, this seaside getaway accommodates as many as six of your adventurous Garden Route companions. You’ll spend hours on end, exploring the region, pivoting from your own beachfront palace, immersed in nature. Boat trips on catamarans out to sea and along the lagoons of Knysna. Oyster harvesting and mountain hiking. Adrenaline sport-seeking and wildlife watching. That’s the beauty of this particular part of the Western Cape, there are so many diverse and enthralling excursions to take part in, ensuring the whole travelling team is totally satiated around the clock.
An adventurous seaside holiday awaits, encased in the luxury of a contemporary castle
The majority of your time – well, at least large portions of your daily itinerary – will be spent at Craighross Castle, lapping up all of the tranquil moments of serenity beside the sea. With it being so secluded from the main hub of Knysna, you’ll be at your leisure to rise slowly like the waves on Noetzie Beach, enjoy a morning coffee on the terrace as you witness the ocean wildlife swim in the surf. Head down to the beach for a little meander along the shoreline. Onto the nature trails for some treasure hunting before a long, leisurely brunch or late afternoon lunch on the verandah. If you want to take your time away to the next level of luxury, you can opt for a full-board stay, having all of your meals catered for. Picnics on the beach, shucking oysters that you’ve just harvested and washing them down with a signature cocktail. Bird watching, sunset gazing and shooting star sighting from the crown of your very own castle. A lovely fairytale begins to unravel as you realise one of your beach holiday dreams. You and your favourite six, disentangling your salty-sea locks from the towers of love – Rapunzel style – savouring the sounds of nature and that everlasting feeling of an enchanting escape.
What we love!
- The property is very generous with its space – the three suites are lovely and large, all delivering magnificent sea views.
- There is daily housekeeping to add to the extra element of luxury. Should you wish to enjoy a full-board service, this can be arranged prior to your stay at an extra cost. To include all of your meals being catered for. There is plenty of information in the villa folder that shares its tips on tours and excursions in the area. The staff and property manager will advise further.
- Having your own access down to the beautiful Noetzie Beach where you can walk and swim, surf and snack on oysters. The oyster culture on the rocks of the beach allow for some lovely oyster picnics, enjoying locally harvested oysters on the shoreline.
What you need to know…
- Craighross Castle is limited to two 4×4 vehicles only, and is accessible solely via the beach.
- There is no cell phone reception at the property, only WIFI.
- The property is perfectly secure but please remember to lock the castle prior to leaving for the day on any excursions. As Pezula Castle is immersed in the wilderness, there is likely to be the occasional baboon, snake and small creature that pays a visit.
- For some wonderful excursions, the property’s information folder with furnish you with a plethora of choices for the whole travelling team. Including the following: Birds of Eden in Plettenberg Bay – marvel at the largest free-flight aviary in the world. A wide variety of bird species including parrots and toucans. Knysna’s local Friday market for some souvenirs and delicious artisanal treats. Golfing days at the Pezula Golf Club where the greens are encased by forests, lagoons and rolling hills. Catamaran sailing along the Knysna Lagoon. Swimming with seal colonies in Plettenberg Bay. Zip-lining in the Knysna forests. There is so much to do in this beautiful region!
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie