Featherbed is a privately-owned, registered Nature Reserve and a South African Heritage site, No.59. It is a pristine piece of paradise situated on the Western Head of Knysna and is accessible by ferry only. This spectacular four-hour eco-experience includes a return ferry trip, nature drive and guided walk, ending with a sumptuous buffet lunch at the Food Forest Restaurant.

Featherbed Nature Reserve is a prime example of eco-tourism and in order to protect the splendour of the natural beauty, access to the Reserve is controlled. Numbers are limited and visits are only permitted in the company of the Reserve's specialist guides.

The Featherbed eco-experience starts with a 25-minute ferry cruise. Your local guide on board will share fascinating tales about the Lagoon, the early shipping industry and oyster cultivation.

On arrival at the Reserve, visitors can enjoy a drive to the top of the Western Head in a 4 x 4 unimog vehicle with trailers, stopping at a magnificent view point en route. Here unsurpassed views of the Lagoon, mountains and Knysna can be enjoyed, whilst our knowledgeable guides explain the history and ecology of the Reserve. After the drive, your specialist guide will take you on an optional 2.2 kilometre downhill walk.

This 4-hour excursion departs daily and reservations are essential. It is a wonderful outing for the whole family - for all ages and fitness levels. Good walking shoes are recommended and remember to bring a camera, with plenty of film, hats in summer and a warm jacket for the ferry trip.

In 1999, the Featherbed Nature Reserve was the only recreational outing chosen in South Africa by the Commonwealth Heads of State, and was a finalist in the Premier's "Tourist Attraction of the Year Award 2000"

Food Forest Resturant

Upon return from the guided walk, visitors are treated to a spectacular buffet lunch in the Food Forest Restaurant, which is situated on the edge of the Lagoon under a canopy of Milkwood trees.

After lunch, the ferry returns to the Featherbed Ferry Terminus, near the Knysna Waterfront. Browse through our unique 'Blue Duiker' Curio Shop where a variety of curios can be purchased including clothing, and the famous carved 'Feathers of Knysna' collection.

The Featherbed Experience is regarded as one of the Garden Route's premier tourist attractions and booking is therefore recommended. Please click here to send your enquiry or to make your reservation.

Please book direct for day visits: 044 - 382 1693 or bookings@featherbed.co.za