Bernie Van Der Linde
Prepare yourselves for an extraordinary stay at The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa on Thesen Island. This extraordinary hotel is enveloped in history, luxury, and a commitment to sustainability.
Nestled in the heart of Knysna, this erstwhile power station now promises a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. From breathtaking views to thrilling adventures, it’s an escapade you don’t want to miss.
Also watch our highlight of The Turbine Hotel on our Instagram page
Where is Thesen Island?
Thesen Island started as a sawmill and processing factory belonging to the Barlow Rand Group. In 1998, the piece of land was approved for a marina development to end the pollution caused by the industries.
Today, Thesen Island comprises 19 artificial islands linked by 21 arched bridges with tidal canals in the Knysna estuary. Many of the historical buildings, such as the Boatshed, Saw Tooth Building (Old Dry Mill), and The Power Station (now home to the Turbine Hotel) were retained. To view a map of Thesen Island, click here
What makes The Turbine Boutique and Spa unique?
Housed within a once-thriving power station, this exquisite hotel now serves as an oasis of relaxation and excitement in equal measure on the renowned Thesen Island in Knysna.
This fully restored Boutique Hotel is one of the most unique hotels in the world. The ‘old’ power station was a genius remodelled into a modern, first-class Boutique Hotel and Spa. And that is where the resemblance stops.
The four imposing steam towers are still cleverly visible, but with industrial and eclectic decor, the stylish five-star Turbine hotel exuberates comfort, elegance, and class. A unique surprise lurks around every corner, from the colourful ‘old’ machinery and pipes to the modern rim-flow pool with canal views. With one-of-a-kind objects painstakingly preserved and exhibited, each suite is unique, unforgettable and surprisingly romantic.
The best hotel on Thesen Island, The Turbine Hotel & Spa
The 90-seater Island café restaurant is enveloped with the original turbines while the outside terrace tables overlook the canals.
The highlight of our stay was the scrumptious breakfast-for-two delivered to our balcony by Cynthia and Likhona. Their signature spinach and salmon omelette is the best we ever tasted!
And if you need some rest and rejuvenation, book a relaxing treatment (from massages to facials) at their superior spa, which even features a Rhassoul steam room. We can highly recommend their massages. Ask for Thembinkosi; she is excellent!
What type of accommodation is available at The Turbine Boutique and Spa?
Nolukholo, the friendliest lady from the front desk, accompanied us to our room and explained the many activities in and around the hotel.
Turbine Hotel offers guests a choice between 17 standard rooms, six luxury rooms, a honeymoon suite and two self-contained suites adjacent to the hotel. Instead of room numbers, each room is carefully named after its location.
We stayed in the canal view room (202) with the most incredible view; it is easy to feel you have stepped into a postcard. Our spacious room had an en-suite bathroom featuring a bathtub, shower, and double vanities. Our coffee and tea station had everything we wished for and was topped up daily.
We loved the cosy balcony from which we could enjoy a refreshing glass of champagne and even their delectable breakfast.
In addition, a bonus is that some of the most beautiful boutiques and restaurants are within walking distance of the hotel.
Best features of The Turbine Hotel on Thesen Island
- The Turbine Hotel is just 2 km from central Knysna.
- Promotes green tourism by implementing water-saving measures such as rainwater harvesting and water-saving fittings.
- The hotel has a solar system and backup generator to deal with power outages
- The 90-seater Island Café restaurant offers farm-to-table breakfast, lunch and dinner (monthly food and wine pairing evenings). Al fresco meals are offered next to the rim-flow pool with a spectacular canal view.
- Al La Carte menu is available for Bbeakfast, lunch and dinner
- Sparkling rikm-flow swimming pool with canal views and sun loungers (pool towels are provided)
- Limited secure parking nearby
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property
- Unusual instruments and contraptions are the focal point, creating a whimsical yet modern atmosphere. Aspirant engineers will be intrigued for days
- The Turbine Spa offers several soothing treatments and include a Rhassoul Steam Room (for limited clients at a time). We can highly recommend the affordable and professional treatments.
- Two large conference rooms which can host between 20 and 40 delegates (audiovisual facilities available, including tailored catering packages). Ideal wedding venue
- The vibey Gasto pub offers craft beer, delectable cocktails, and classic pub meals. Don’t miss Friday evenings with Happy hour and live local musicians.
- The Turbine Water Club and on-site adventure centre offer a variety of water and land-based activities. The water-based activities include fishing charters, whale watching, kayaking, and sunset cruises, while the land-based activities comprise guided tours to the ancient Knysna Forest and bicycle rental.
- Each room has a fully stocked mini-bar with beer, wine and spirits (several glasses are provided) . There is also a complementary pod coffee machine including a plunger
- Fast and efficient room service options
- Disability-friendly location
There are many exciting activities available such as Ocean sailing charters, scooters, the Motorcycle Room, Oyster tours, and many more. Inquire from reception about an all the activities on-site or nearby.
We have been on several charters before, but this one is in a class of its own. From that moment, we were greeted by the super-experienced and professional skipper and owner, Neil van Deventer. His formidable team, comprising Mirandie the hostess and Andre, the deckhand, ensured we were treated like royalty.
We booked a trip with Lara Bella, who smoothly navigated her way through the Knysna heads and back, circling the lagoon to give us the ultimate sunset experience. On board, you will receive a complimentary ice-cold glass of champagne and a delicious braai on board prepared by the team. And if you’re lucky like us, you might spot some whales. The charters leave from Sirocco jetty, only a few meters from the Turbine Hotel.
We encourage you to step on board any three of their fleet of catamarans named Ocean Rhythm, Lara Bella, or Luna Bella, and you are guaranteed to feel revitalised by the beauty of the sunset and ocean.
If you still wondering what to get someone special for Christmas, they sell great gift vouchers!
If you have not watched our Instagram reel about our trip with Ocean Sailing Charters, please check it out now.
Must visit attractions near The Turbine Hotel on Thesen Island, Knysna
- There are several pristine beaches in the area
- Knysna forest horse riding, Jukani (Wildlife sanctuary), Birds of Eden, Monkey land, Wolf sanctuary, snake park and elephant sanctuary.
- For the adrenalin junkies, there is Knysna Ziplining, Face Adrenalin and Storms River bungy jumping.
- Thesen island, situated on the edge of the Knysna Lagoon presents from leisurely lagoon cruises to deep sea fishing excursions and whale watching
Good to Know
Due to the hotel’s location (on the lagoon’s banks), no children under 12 can be accommodated.
How to make a booking at The Turbine Hotel?
Contact numbers:+27 82 551 3019
WhatsApp: +27 (0) 44 050 3500
Email address: book@turbinehotel.co.za
How to get to The Turbine Hotel on Thesen Island?
From Knysna Central, navigate to Long Street, the main road onto Thesen Island, and then make your way onto Sawtooth Lane (a rather strange name for a street, don’t you agree?). The Turbine Hotel is centrally located near Thesen Harbour Town, which is an easy stroll away.
Some of our favourite moments at The Turbine Hotel and Spa on Thesen Island
Top 10 things to do in Knysna
Here is our list of top 10 things to do in Knysna:
- View the Knysna Head from the lookout point (Follow the road to Barview Cresent – there is an allocated parking area, walk on foot to the view points) The East Heads is easier to access. The only way to see the West Heads up-close is by sailing charters from the Knysna Lagoon.
- Do whale watching from May to December.
- Take a cruise on the Knysna Lagoon
- Visit Knysna waterfront
- Go to Brenton-on-Sea for the best sunset views
- Swim at Buffalo Bay
- Explore the beautiful boutiques around Thesen Island
- Learn to surf at Victoria Bay
- Do Beach hopping; our favourites are Brenton-on-Sea and Buffalo Bay.
- Try the famous Knysna Oysters.
No Hurry To Get Home is another great travel blog with more tips for you about things to do in Knysna
What is next on the blog?
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