St. James of Knysna

What an enjoyable three nights we have recently experienced at St James of Knysna. We are holidaying in SA. We first stayed at this hotel on holiday in 2018. Whilst we enjoyed that first visit, we both thought that the large suite we had was looking very tired. Fast forward five years, after reading of the recent upgrades, we decided to revisit St James. What a great decision it was. Everything about this hotel was positive. First and foremost, the staff at this hotel are absolutely outstanding. Particular mention to Norman, Athunasi (sp), Elija and Sandy. A quiet location overlooking the estuary, but only a five minute drive into Knysna. Room was spacious, with a large lounge area. Breakfast was a very enjoyable experience, either inside the garden room or on the terrace. The waiters/waitresses were warm and welcoming. Sincere apologies for not remembering names. We had a meal from the bar on our first nice, which was very reasonable and enjoyable. The refurb has really modernised this hotel!! The complimentary boat trip (90 mins) around the lagoon was excellent. Thankyou “Captain” Alex!

The warm welcome on arrival was continued during our 3 night stay. The staff are professional, friendly, welcoming and seem to be really happy to cater to one's needs. Lovely breakfasts beautifully prepared and presented. Fabulous room with a great view of the vlei. Large, comfortable bed. It was winter and the underfloor heating in the bathroom was a treat.

The noisy air conditioning units attached to both sides of our room. They rumbled and hummed continuously throughout our stay. What could have been a superlative, quiet visit was made noisy and the sound disturbed our sleep. The hotel was not at all full so we should have been allocated a quiet room. A pity.

This small hotel was an absolute joy from start to finish! From the incredible staff, to the beauty of the location, to the beautiful large room, to the huge full bathroom (with views!) to the incredible breakfast. I cannot rate this hotel highly enough. Too many properties have lost that personal touch but NOT the St James. The entire experience was incredible!

Absolutely nothing! Everything was perfection.

Just WOW! We loved it right from the first moment. This hotel gave us a truly great experience of feeling like a proper hotel guest, Sandy and her staff did a great job with welcoming approach and taking care of you! It was our best hotel in South Africa out of 6 we stayed at. Firstly, they truly want to make your stay comfortable and memorable. Secondly, rooms are spacious, beds are comfy and view around is fantastic. Thirdly, breakfast was really good, a couple of a'la carte options and a nice buffet, not so boring as in other hotels. We didn't have time for a boat tour they organize for you but it looked great, as the lake is just in front of you. Thank you everyone for such a nice time in your hotel! We will visit again for sure and stay longer!

We loved absolutely everything. The only thing I didn't like was that we couldn't stay longer in this place!

Great location overlooking the lagoon with two pool areas and plenty of sunchairs/beds to use. Free boat trip on the lagoon was much appreciated and the breakfasts were excellent. Staff were extremely friendly and helpful.

Question the 5-star rating as room amenities and furniture somewhat limited and in need of updating. No atmosphere in the evenings as only bar menu offered so everyone went out.

Breakfast was absolutely divine and the service during breakfast was amazing. The view of the lagoon whilst having breakfast is something to be cherished. Lounge and dining area & reception areas are well appointed, tastefully furnished and modern. The hotel went out of their way to make our 33rd wedding anniversary extra special - there were fresh flowers, a bottle of champagne and rose petals on the bed. This just made our whole weekend feel extra special. The view of the lagoon from our bedroom was amazing.

Everything was superb and fabulous, from the reception to the check out. There was nothing not to like. Loved it.

Very comfortable hotel right on the lagoon, huge and well-maintained pool (without the usually annoying cleaning pipes which any other pool in SA seems to have). Super friendly and helpful staff. Best breakfast of our entire trip (3 weeks). Very beautiful and comfortable room, although we booked the cheapest category.

They could provide a bit more light during load-shedding for a 5*, the bathroom could do with a "facelift", was rather 3*, .the boat trip (included, free of charge, aven included drinks) could be made a bit more exciting, different route?

Staff were amazing and always friendly. The picnic on the complementary boat ride was phenomenal, as well as the breakfast. Seriously enjoyed my stay and would recommend it to my family and friends.

For the price range one could expect that ironing equipment came standard with each room, but unfortunately it doesn’t. Our bed had fleas; we left with several bite marks. The road as you enter the hotel must be fixed as it could damage a sports car.

We had a fantastic time in St. James! It is a lovely hotel, beautifully situated with a wonderful view across the lagune. The personnel were very courteous and helpful. We got a great upgrade and stayed in a suite with a private terrace on the lagune, very big and luxurious, good bathroom and direct access to the small pool just outside the front door. Knysna is really close by, and we had a lovely dinner at Dry Dock restaurant. Breakfast was very good, we sat outside on the terrace, and enjoyed our waiters’ considerate service. We loved everything about our stay!!

Nothing! Our stay was perfect!

Beautiful and spacious rooms. Loved the barge trip with Alex. It was so special to have the barge to ourselves and really made us feel special. The breakfasts were delicious and the staff were all lovely, so calming and friendly. Really enjoyed being able to watch the MotoGP in the lounge area too. Comfortable and once again felt like we had special access.

We loved everything!