What a treat! We stayed at the Turbine Hotel and Spa with friends for one night on our recent tour of the Garden Route. We thought the whole comcept was delightful. The building was once the turbine that provided all the power to Thesen Island. The restoration has been well planned and the fact that many of the original fixtures have been kept is one of the really unique features of the place. The fact that no attempt to HIDE them was made but rather to accentuate them by painting them in numerous primary colors was really very bold. We loved the artworks on display throughout the hotel. Our room was large and opened onto, not one, but two patios. We had cocktails before dinner in their tapas bar and dined in the restaurant both that evening and the following morning. Everything was delicious, well prepared, beautifully presented. Our only criticism is that there were NO oysters on the menu. And Knysna is an "oyster capital". What a shame!
The staff were all very friendly and helpful. Even though we were there for only one night we were given lots of personal attention and we were wished a safe journey by the manager just before leaving in the morning. I recommend the hotel wholeheartedly.

I had the opportunity to stay in The Turbine and was blown away by the transformation of the old power station. Looking at the photographs of what it looked like originally, one can only be impressed by the end result. Much of the original turbines and piping had been retained and everything planned around it. I love the modern, eclectic decor.

The food was great and I can say that the eggs benedict was the best I ever had. You can cycle all around the lagoon or navigate the canals on the island in a kayak, just looking at the different houses. The staff is pleasant and helpful.

Thiis was a unique experience for me and the treatment in the Spa was a true 'treat'.

Could hardly call this hotel 5 star, at best a 4 star rating. We stayed in a "suite" which in reality is a very small basic standard room. The restaurant is worth a visit and the breakfast part of our deal was more than adequate.

Good location, would I return?? Probably not....there are other options in Knysna

Having started life as a power station on Thesen Island - burning wood to generate power for the vilage - the Turbine Hotel offers a unque experience and superb food.

Its kitchen is capable, for instance, of producing the perfect Eggs Benedict for breakfast.

Most rooms have a stunning view of either the lake or the canals.

Service is unobtrusively excellent, staff members are friendly and make you feel at home.