Turbine Hotel and Spa

We really enjoyed our stay at The Turbine Hotel. The team were attentive and friendly during our stay, with special shout-out to the breakfast severs who we had a lovely time with. The room was fresh and bright - and the hotel is beautiful. Thank you for a wonderful stay!

Staying at the Turbine Hotel was a lovely experience, especially for a romantic getaway. The hotel staff were welcoming and quickly made us feel at home in the new space. While our room was chic, spotless and well-designed for an action-packed weekend by the sea. We woke up with a view of the marina and a fresh smell of ocean air. The complimentary breakfast was delicious. We were given a cute platter of nibbles while we waited for our orders. Exploring the hotel was super interesting as the heritage of the building is well-preserved. There are some sections that give an industrial feel that takes you back in time. Dinner at the restaurant was scrumptious. We ordered the seafood curry, which was inspired by our home suburb, Bo Kaap. The chef got the dish right, in my opinion. The location of the hotel is great. Thesen Island has a relaxed vibe and lots to explore. We spent time by the ocean, checked out the sea horses and dabbled in the water activities. Overall, this was an enjoyable experience that I would love to repeat and recommend to others.

Food is absolutely delicious, great and friendly service, views are amazing (Feels like you in Mini Italy) . One of the most unique diverse restaurants iv been to in terms of ambiance 💯💯💯

Best food and service experience in Knysna. Bored of the “regular” overpriced, overcooked and underwhelming food experiences so far, we decided on the Island Cafe at the Turbine Hotel. Bored management with a “no-can-do” attitude much like any of the other popular restaurants like Sirocco - unbelievably bad attitude to client service, but here we were met with a gem of a waitress - Kia - “like the car”. Great oysters, beautiful granita. Lovely fresh fish and a great prawn dish (thinner pasta would work better). Overall our best eating experience in Knysna. Worth a visit.

Hotel was clean, staff friendly and efficient, and room was great! Will definitely stay there again.

We’ve stayed at the Turbine three years in a row because our first two visits were warm and welcoming. Unfortunately, our latest stay felt like a marked step down—especially at the front desk. We weren’t recognised as returning guests, and after our reservation email went unanswered, we had to confirm the booking ourselves a week before arrival. The room showed wear and tear: the in-room info folder was shabby and missing a room-service menu. When we tried to order toasted sandwiches and chips mid-morning, we were told the fryer only switches on at noon—out of step with what a 5-star hotel promises. With a late flight, we asked for a late checkout and were offered only 11:15 (15 minutes past standard) because a “very big and important” group was due—no option to pay for a later checkout either. It left us wondering why our comfort as returning guests felt less important. We left feeling undervalued. Unless service standards and maintenance improve, we’ll be taking our business elsewhere. Date of stay: September 2025

This is a stylishly and little quirky converted power station , and turbine museum, with great large rooms and views of the bay or the inlet based on an old timber processing island. This is a perfect location if you plan whale watching or sunset cruises as the meeting points are just a 2 minute walk. Beds are huge and comfortable. The staff across all areas could not do enough for you and the genuinely happy level of service is impressive. Lots of restaurants on the island but the hotel main restaurant had a really varied menu and the food was also very good. Free and easy parking makes this the ideal place to stay in Knysna. If you are in Knysna make time for the Elephant Sanctuary-25 minute drive but well worth it.

A wonderful experience. Absolutely unique hotel right on the water. Stunning g. Jew of Knysna and Marina So well decorated. Beautiful pool area for relaxing.

What a treat our stay was - from the friendly, professional staff, unique dècor & intriguing history to the lovely, warm environment. It was relaxing from beginning to the establishment's efforts & professionalism.

The hotel is very well situated near the island's restaurants, motorcycle museum, and cafes. The staff are exceptional, as are the restaurant and attached pub. The overall turbine theme is both fascinating and stylish, giving each room a unique feel.