Name: Blackwaters River Lodge
Address: n2 highway, goukamma, Knysna, 6570, ZA

10/10

Exceptional

19 Dec 2025

Ralf

Friendlyness

10/10

Exceptional

31 Mar 2025

Sandra

The property owner was amazing, staff was great (people to carry luggage tried to avoid us, typical young people). Grounds were beautiful and the meals were great. Last minute booking as our Vrbo suddenly became unavailable

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

18 Dec 2023

Verified traveler

Romantic get away.

Beautiful and quiet with friendly service.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Jul 2023

Leonard B

Very good stay in a beautiful location. The owner and the staff were very friendly and helpful. Great service. I will stay there again. Good value for money.

Friends_and_family Family

2/10

Poor

07 Mar 2023

Christopher

A couple of things we enjoyed about the property included (i) great breakfast that was included the only morning we were there; and (ii) when we checked in the owner went out of her way to make us feel welcome.

The reason for the poor review is due to the fact we were not provided a refund for the final two nights of our stay despite the fact the staff told us we could cancel and that we'd be provided a refund. Our room did not include air conditioning and our stay was over a few days in which temperatures were extremely hot. My wife was pregnant and literally did not sleep the one night we stayed there, and could not tolerate staying another two nights. I asked the front desk if we could cancel our last two nights and receive a refund. The staff said we would, but we'd need to coordinate with Expedia to receive the refund.

I've spent the last two months trying to coordinate with Expedia to receive a refund. Each time I reached out, Expedia was not able to actually get an answer from the property. Finally, today, they got an answer from the property after which I was informed I would not receive a refund. The fact that the staff specifically told me I could cancel and receive a refund is one of the reasons we did actually cancel our final two nights. As a result of this experience, I would not recommend staying at this property.

We did stay the last two nights at the Views Boutique Hotel & Spa in Wilderness. I would highly recommend this hotel of Blackwaters.

Leisure Partner

8/10

Excellent

13 Mar 2020

PMD1959

The property is in a quiet, beautiful area by the river just outside Knysna on the N2. The staff were superb and nothing was too much trouble. We had a classic room but if we were staying again we would upgrade to a luxury room. This was not available for our dates but for the price, luxury is a vastly better option. The classic rooms are clean and comfortable but have not yet been refurbished. Be aware that the water from the taps is a dark brown colour and might be off-putting to some. Drinking water is provided and is plentiful. The water wasn’t a problem to us. We loved the setting of the property and enjoyed a tasty breakfast admiring the view from the terrace. An enjoyable visit, thank you!

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

29 Sep 2019

Nosithembele

Glorious Getaway

It was the best place we have ever booked. The view and friendly staff.
Gerald, you are amazing.
Thank you once again.

Friends

8/10

Excellent

17 Apr 2019

Christopher

Nice little lodge close enough to town

Very nice little lodge about 10 min drive from town. Very accommodating. My room did not have hot water and they were able to move me without hesitation.

10/10

Exceptional

27 Mar 2019

luiz

top place

staff and rooms fantastic. food out of this world.
can not fault and well recommended

Friends

10/10

Exceptional

06 May 2018

Nesreen

Lovely quiet little find

What a wonderful little find. Having been affected by the fires last year this hotel is slowly getting back on their feet. We got upgraded to beautiful suites and the little details that were left in our room made it special and memorable. The front of house staff and the kitchen/breakfast guys are absolutely wonderful and so friendly and it was so nice to hear their stories. A great asset to this establishment. There is currently a water problem in SA and this hotel is trying to be resourceful by using water from the lake that runs through their property, the only downside to this is the water coming through the taps is slightly brown which is a little off putting when washing. We would highly recommend this place based on the comfort and staff though!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

31 Jan 2017

Verified traveler

Lovely setting and had a great experience

What a lovely experience we had. So picturesque and with staff who could not be more informative and welcoming.

We had a great time with great food, room and service.

Partner

6/10

Pleasant

27 Jan 2017

Verified traveler

Nice location peaceful retreat

The restaurant was poor. Cooks left to their own devices with little or no training other than being able to put a small pizza together! The owners quite disinterested in following up staffs work to ensure guests get what they pay for! We ordered grilled lamb chops and they were unedible hacked to bits and burned! Over our 4night stay we had cooked breakfast every morning the muesli was old and made me unwell!
For South Africa where we have only had delicious food. This was a very poor show!

8/10

Excellent

23 Jan 2017

BASHIR

conveniant andfreindly

very good n freindly

Partner

8/10

Excellent

04 Dec 2016

Alan

Great hotel to base for sightseeing

Very good for a short break very enjoyable visit and friendly staff good restaurant and well priced

Family

10/10

Exceptional

21 Nov 2016

Marwa

Wonderful surprise

Lovely place, highly recommend it. Wonderful setting, relaxing atmosphere, excellent good value restaurant and personalized service. Rooms are just so cozy and at night they give you the best house made chocolates. Don't make my mistake and stay there for only 1 night.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

21 Nov 2016

Phiwokuhle

The reviews on the hotel were not a lie, the service was amazing. Very friendly and welcoming

The only issue was wifi in our room, but we were out most of the day other than that I don't think I will stay anywhere else, Blackwaters has my heart

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Nov 2016

Bill

Great Choice

Excellent facility in a great bushland location with friendly staff and a great restaurant.

8/10

Excellent

14 May 2016

Verified traveler

Road warrior on the garden route

I was upgraded to a river room which was spacious with extra amenities and I loved the bathtub. Wish I had more time to take a canoe out and explore

8/10

Excellent

06 Apr 2016

Paola

Great Room amenities

The rooms were EXCELLENT

The restaurant was pleasing - but food only ok and the service could have been better.

We only got scraps for breakfast as we got there 20 min before closing -- and the restaurant was visually unpleasant.

8/10

Excellent

25 Jan 2016

Frederick

Excellent good value relaxed accommodation

Good value and excellent staff.
The 9 hole par 3 golf was, however, in poor condition.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

11 Jan 2016

Verified traveler

Relaxing and Convenient Hidden Gem

I loved the personal touches at Blackwaters. The staff was conscientious and made a point to know me by name. Beautiful grounds, and easy access to Knysna and the Eastern Cape. By far the best stop on my trip. Highly recommended and I hope to return.

8/10

Excellent

11 Jan 2016

Verified traveler

Friendly, helpful staff and lots of attention to detail.

Family

8/10

Excellent

21 Nov 2015

shannon

It was a gorgeous location, great breakfast. The only issue we had was that you can only use 250 mb of wifi data (hardly any) and it's pretty far from town.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

21 Nov 2015

David

Warm greeting from Reception staff

From the minute we drove into the car park, the was somebody from reception meet us in the carpark to warmly greet us, with a glass of local Port, the room are spacious, we stayed in a garden view room 5 nights and overlooked the golf course, breakfast was good with lots of chose. We only had the 1 evening meal but the food was good and the setting beautiful. This hotel is ideal for a base for the whole of the coast line of the route from Mossel Bay to Plettenberg Bay.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

28 Sep 2015

Megan

Absolutely inlove with this place!

I am a travel agent and would definitely recommend this establishment to any of my family, friends or clients.
The Lodge is just outside Knysna, perfectly located for tranquility and surrounded by the most beautiful gardens and mountains.
The service from all the staff was out-of-this-world and Winnette went out of her way to make sure we were comfortable. She even set up a braai for us - as typical South African's we could not watch the rugby without a braai!
The rooms are beautifully decorated, clean and the attention to detail - from having tots of Amarula and nougat placed in the rooms for a night-cap, to insect repellent for the mozzies.
I will most definitely be returning and becoming a \"regular\".

Family

10/10

Exceptional

24 Sep 2015

Cliff

The best you're going to get.

We needed a few days of total relaxation. Blackwater fitted the bill perfectly.
Lovely room overlooking the beautiful river, quite efficiency,good restaurant open until 21:30 everyday.
Will use it over and over.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Sep 2015

Frederick

Highest praise!

The thoughtfulness of hotel management is carried out by every act of the staff. Greeted by a warm welcome and a couple of glasses of a wonderful local port. Everywhere you turn, the consideration for customer comfort and satisfaction is amply displayed. The chocolates awaiting your taste buds, the creme de cocoa apertifs brought to your room in the evening, the warm electric blankets underneath the bottom sheets spoiled us. Absolutely the best value we've experienced in our 5 months of traveling around the world. My absolute highest recommendation for anyone wanting a first class experience at a reasonable price!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Sep 2015

mel

Excellent spot

Stayed to very lovely nights. Very relaxing.

10/10

Exceptional

24 May 2015

Gary

Peaceful Stay

We were met by the charming and helpful desk staff member. She was extremely friendly, helpful and courteous. She showed us to our accomidations and informed of the other accomidations. The room was very comfortable. We enjoyed walking around the property, canoeing on the river and just enjoyed to beautiful surroundings.

8/10

Excellent

07 May 2015

Kristof

lovely lodge

lovely lodge, very pleasant and welcoming staff. Really no need to hesitate to book a night here when staying in Knysna, you won't regret it.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

13 Apr 2015

Verified traveler

Relaxing and comfortae getaway for couples or families wanting to visit the knysna area. Safe and comfortable. Great restaurant and easy parking. Do need your own transportation to get to and from Knysna.

8/10

Excellent

24 Feb 2015

Alix

Romantic lodge in a beautifully peaceful setting

We chose Blackwaters River Lodge for a Valentine's getaway as it was close to where we live, yet felt like miles away! This newly renovated lodge nestled on the river surrounded by lush green hills is a hidden gem; perfect for a romantic break. The rooms are beautifully decorated with lots of nice little touches and amenities. The staff were very friendly and helpful. We had a special Valentines dinner in the cute little restaurant. The menu choice was a tad too adventurous for my liking, but it was lovingly prepared and presented, none the less. Breakfast however was hearty and delicious and even though we missed the cut off time, they were still happy to serve us. We played some Mashie golf on the adjacent course which was lots of fun. I left a shirt behind in the room and not only did they contact me before I even realised it, but they were also kind enough to deliver it to Knysna!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Feb 2015

Eric

Beautiful Place

The setting is exquisite .The owners friendly and help full The staff courteous and help full. The resturant was very good food excellent

Partner

8/10

Excellent

25 Dec 2014

B

Blackwaters River Lodge ☆☆☆☆

Wonderful accommodation and friendly and reliable staff.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Mar 2026

Martina

Netter Pool

Self

8/10

Excellent

04 Jan 2026

Bontemps

Petit golf et lieu ( rivière , fire pit ,…) très sympa , personnel très gentil .
Petit dej ???, demarre trop tard , pas pris !!.
Lit refait mais sol chambre pas nettoyé .
Bonne impression quand même .

Leisure Partner

4/10

Poor

03 Dec 2022

Bo

Meget lidt rindende vand……. Floden ligger lige nedenfor, så mon ikke pumpen var “død”

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Apr 2017

Verified traveler

Wundervolle Lodge direkt am Blackwater River

Wundervolle Lodge direkt im Wald am Fluss. Man kann dort Kanu fahren. Das Frühstück ist sehr gut und das Personal sehr nett.

8/10

Excellent

02 Mar 2017

Leif

Lækkert lodge i dejlige omgivelser nær Knysna

Alt var meget fint - bortset fra, at vi havde booket og betalt for et River view værelse (nyrenoveret, stort, luxus, udsigt), men fik et Forrest view værelse, som var mindre, mindre luxus og dårligere udsigt.
Indcheckningen og ejeren kunne ikke give os det bookede Riverview værelse, da der ikke var noget ledigt - og de havde fåer bekræftelse fra Expedia.com/Hotel.com om at vi havde booket et Forrestview (trods min bekræftelse på Riverview).
Intet kunne de gøre og intet blev gjort - bortset fra at de selv henvendte sig til Expedia.com.
Vi er utilfredse med ikke at have fået, hvad vi bookede og betalte for.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

07 Nov 2016

Meike

Wunderschön

super schönes, mit liebe zum Detail eingerichtetes Zimmer. Grosses Bad, sehr sauber. Tolle Terrasse mit wunderschönen Blick. Als Betthupferl gibts jeden Abend einen Schnaps und Süssigkeiten.

10/10

Exceptional

26 Oct 2016

Verified traveler

Ein Paradies

Das Hotel liegt abseits der Strasse, ruhig im Wald an einem Fluß. Wir hatten ein tolles und geräumiges Zimmer mit Terrasse zum Fluß. Man muß etwas auf seine Sachen aufpassen, weil freilaufende Affen daran Gefallen finden könnten. Das Hotel-Team ist sehr nett und hilfsbereit.

10/10

Exceptional

14 Mar 2016

Tim

Gemütliches Hotel im Dschungel

Sehr schönes Hotel etwas außerhalb von Knysna direkt am Fluß. Absolut ruhig gelegen, echtes Dschungel-Feeling. Abends vor dem Zimmer sitzen ist unvergesslich. :-)
Zimmer sehr sauber, großzügig ausgestattet, Personal sehr freundlich und hilfsbereit. Frühstück einfach, aber lecker -- besonders empfehlenswert das selbst gebackene Brot.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

11 Jan 2016

Verified traveler

Hotel confortevole immerso nella natura

Ottima struttura, immersa nella natura a 12 Km da Knysna e proprio di fronte alla strada che porta a Buffels Bay (che dista 8KM dall'hotel).
La struttura ha una SPA, un discreto ristorante. e un campo pratica (mashie) per il golf.
Dall'hotel è possibile fare escursioni in canoa sul fiume.

8/10

Excellent

29 Dec 2015

Soeren

Smukt men afsides beliggende

Hotellet ligger nogle km fra Knysna og man skal have en bil, hvis man skal bo der. Der reklameres med en 18 hullers golfbane (reelt 2x9), men den er helt useriøs, svær for uøvede og livsfarlig for golfspillere pga. blinde slag og tees og greens blandet grundigt sammen. Man advares om flere giftige slanger, der lever på banen, vi så dog ikke nogen.
OK værelser og en restaurant med udmærket mad og vin i pæne omgivelser.
Wi-Fi skal købes, i små portioner.

Family

8/10

Excellent

11 Nov 2015

Verified traveler

Their little place of magic

Lovely stay, details made the difference. Nice escape from busy knysna.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

31 Aug 2015

csn_de

Perfektes Hotel in hervorr 4 Sterneausstattung\n

Weil das Hotel \"Lodge\" heißt hatten wir gar keine großen Erwartungen. Dort angekommen fanden wir aber ein großes Gästezimmer mit angrenzendem Luxusbad vor, das den Vergleich zu anderen Hotels dieser Sternekategorie mehr als Stand hält. Die herzliche Gastfreundschaft und die Liebe zum Detail, als auch der atemberaubende Blick von der Veranda in die grüne Südafrikaoase haben unseren Aufenthalt unvergesslich gemacht .

10/10

Exceptional

04 May 2015

Bernd & Andrea

Wunderschoene Lodge am Blackwater River

In wunderschoener, einmalig ruhiger Lage im Reservat gelegen
Die sehr nette Besitzerin hat uns jeden Wunsch von den Augen abgelesen
Insgesamt eine Empfehlung mit Privatterasse und Blick auf den River
Super!

8/10

Excellent

15 Feb 2015

HERMAN

Oogverblindende natuur

WIJ VERBLEVEN 3 Dagen in knysna in Blackwaters river lodge.
Het ligt 12 km buiten knysna wat na het eten in het dorp best ver weg is.
De kamers zijn met smaak en comfortabel ingericht.
De begroeiing van het hele terrein is werkelijk oogverblindend mooi.Veel vogels ook!
Het is er heel rustig.De eigenaresse is erg vriendelijk en behulpzaam en zo ook het overige personeel.Ontbijt prima.
Vergeet deze dagen wifi( trouwens niet gratis!!) en de tv want beiden werken nauwelijks.(golf ook zeer matig)
Gelukkig is er verder zoveel te genieten dat ik een verblijf echt zal aanraden.

Partner