The name Knysna is a Khoi word but it is uncertain as to its exact meaning. This could mean "place of wood, or it could mean 'Sheets fern, but its meaning is more likely down "- an obvious reference to the Chiefs. Knysna Heads must be the most remarkable geological features to throughout the southern African coast. That flank a deep but potentially treacherous channel through which the sea pours in to flood the wide and very impressive gap in the Knysna River mouth.

Knysna story began in 1804, the year saw the arrival of George Rex, is rumored to be the illegitimate son of King George III. He bought the estate known as Melkhoutkraal on the banks of the lagoon and moved his entire family and considerable entourage Knysna towards an agreement.

Knysna is one of the southern Cape coast best known holiday destinations, situated between lush forests and the shores of the peaceful lagoon – it offers many activities and a variety of attractions. The most popular attraction are the heads – two great sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon that connects to the estuary of the sea.

A lookout has been erected at the head of the East, with spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna. The Western Head is a privately owned nature reserve – Featherbed Bay. The Knysna Lagoon is one of the few places along the coast and in the world that supports an oyster hatchery. And the Knysna oysters are reportedly among the tastiest the world.

Millwood House Museum in Queen Street material relating to the history of the city, and features objects once owned by George Rex. It was built between Yellowwood the end of the previous century during the gold rush. Millwood, later moved to Knysna.

Knysna has many attractions nearby, well, one of the most spectacular is the Knysna Forest, which is still evident in many places within the city too. It is the largest indigenous forest in southern Africa comprising of tall old trees of local and exotic species, including stinkwood, yellowwood, blackwood, ironwood, alder and hazel White Cape.

Not forgetting the ferns, vines and wildflowers, which give color to this endless green collage. The forest is large and extremely dense in places so it is impenetrable. Animal life is limited to a few small antelope and a variety of birds including the famous Knysna Loeri. Home to the once-great herds of Knysna Elephants, it is believed that only one lonely cow remains today.

Another historical attraction are the Millwood Gold Mines. Alluvial gold found here in 1885, which caused a run to the area. At Jubilee Creek, the exact spot where gold was found, offers a quiet picnic area and beautiful with many nice forests walks in the area.

Buffalo Bay is the closest beach to Knysna, one of the safest for swimming along the coast and enjoyed by many tourists every year. It is very rocky in places, which is a great fishing place, there is also a small slipway for small boats.

Come visit:

Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za

Bushwacked- camping with Dick and George!