Set in a wooden lodge in Knysna town centre, this laid-back hotel is within 10 minutes’ walk of shops and restaurants, 1.5 km from Thesens Island boat charters and 15 km from Brenton-on-Sea beaches.

Bright, casual rooms feature tea and coffeemaking facilities, satellite TVs and free WiFi. Some include sofabeds and/or garden views.

Full breakfast is complimentary. There’s a wood-beamed dining room and a train-themed bar, with vintage railroad memorabilia throughout the hotel. An outdoor pool sits amid lush courtyard gardens. Secure parking is free.