The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa

Knysna, Garden Route

Virgin rating

Suite
Standard Room
Standard Twin
Island Cafe
Luxury Room
Luxury Room
Island Cafe
Suite
Spa
Island Cafe
Suite
Standard Room
Standard Twin
Island Cafe
Luxury Room
Luxury Room
Island Cafe
Suite
Spa
Island Cafe

The hotel

Historic, quirky, and luxurious. That’s how we’d describe the Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa in three words. An old power station has been transformed into an idyllic hotel on the canal rivers of Knysna, complete with exceptional cuisine, a top of the range spa, and stunning views. All of the old machinery in the power station now forms part of the funky décor, painted brightly in vivid colours that stand out against the bare bricks and white walls. You’ll forever be spotting unusual contraptions, massive turbines, and steel pipes – it’s a fascinating place to stay. So much so, that the rooms vary in size and shape due to the architecture, but you can be sure that it’ll be spacious and airy. Now enough about the décor and more about how you’re going to enjoy yourself staying here. The Turbine Spa is one of the finest on the Garden Route, so book yourself in for a treatment and enjoy the steam room whilst you’re at it. Whether you’re staying for business or pleasure, the Gastro Pub is a great way to end the day – enjoy a craft beer or a local wine and catch the latest sporting events whilst indulging in upmarket pub grub. When you want to get a bit more active, the Turbine Waterclub is on hand with kayak rentals, sunset cruises, and forest tours just the tip of the activities on offer. This is the perfect stop on your travels through the magic of the Garden Route. 

Amenities

  • Bicycle Rental
  • Kayaking
  • Bar
  • Free Parking
  • Internet Access
  • Laundry Service
  • Restaurant
  • Room Service
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool

Where is it

Located on Thesen Island, which is a secure marina estate within the Knysna canals, on the Garden Route. Less than a mile from Knysna town centre, and 38 miles from George Airport.

Hotel information

24 rooms and suites, each designed with an individual shape and personality. All feature air conditioning, complimentary WiFi access, flat-screen TV, mini bar*, coffee/tea making facilities, bathroom amenities, hairdyer, bathrobe, slippers, and iron and ironing board. 

Standard rooms have 1 king-size bed or twin beds, sleeping maximum 2 adults. 

Please note: Some rooms feature a private balcony but these cannot be guaranteed.

Luxury Rooms are larger in size, featuring an additional lounge and bar area with microwave, and either 1 king-size bed or twin beds, and some have an additional sleeper sofa, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Suites feature a fully equipped kitchen, private balcony, and 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 2 adults. 

Island Café (a la carte restaurant with diverse menu and outdoor seating, open for breakfast lunch and dinner). Gastro Pub (serving gourmet pub fare, a range of craft beers, and South African wines, with outdoor seating). 

Outdoor swimming pool. Turbine Spa*. Turbine Water Club* with a range of water sports and activities including cruises, hikes, bicycle hire, and kayaking/canoeing. 

Complimentary WiFi access. 24-hour front desk. Complimentary parking. Laundry service*. Room service*. 

*Denotes local charge.

Please note: This hotel is on sale to guests age 16 years and above only. 

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Value Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Cleanliness Image of the Tripadvisor rating

Traveller rating

  • Excellent (714)
  • Very good (239)
  • Average (62)
  • Poor (21)
  • Terrible (24)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating 2-night pamper package

Nov 29, 2023 Adri M Western Cape, South Africa

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Turbine. It's like staying in a living museum! The decor is incredible, with modern touches and the ancient generator technology on display. We booked the 2-night pamper package which really was value for money. The food is great, the service was friendly, the massage was the best I've ever had, and the room… Read more
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Turbine. It's like staying in a living museum! The decor is incredible, with modern touches and the ancient generator technology on display. We booked the 2-night pamper package which really was value for money. The food is great, the service was friendly, the massage was the best I've ever had, and the room was spacious, clean and super comfortable. Can't wait to go back, seriously. The two restaurants at the hotel (Island Cafe and Gastro Pub) were also both really amazing with great food and service. We were lucky that we were there during hot days, enjoying the pool and sun loungers right on the canal. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating A great hotel with an unconventional style

Nov 21, 2023 Herbert M Province of South Tyrol, Italy

On our diverse journey "South Africa with Flair," we had the opportunity to experience the great amenities, sophistication, and hospitality of this 5-star hotel. The hotel captivates with its rustic furnishings, originally having been a power station generating electricity from turbines, is evidenced in every hall, each floor, and room. It was a… Read more
On our diverse journey "South Africa with Flair," we had the opportunity to experience the great amenities, sophistication, and hospitality of this 5-star hotel. The hotel captivates with its rustic furnishings, originally having been a power station generating electricity from turbines, is evidenced in every hall, each floor, and room. It was a unique and first-class opportunity that enriched our trip "South Africa with Flair" in every aspect. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Unique and quirky!

Nov 16, 2023 ELIZABETH B

Quirky unique hotel! Fantastic decor. Comfortable beds, great bathrooms and neat swimming pool. Lovely location with café overlooking a canal. Great breakfast. Lovely staff. Lots of restaurant choices nearby. Lots of parking. Highly recommend.
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Wow great hotel !

Nov 13, 2023 Philippa500 London, United Kingdom

Wow! What a fabulous hotel, quirky and so clever how they have transformed this old power station into something really spectacular. Our room was gorgeous, really comfortable bed, balcony great amenities and huge bathroom, only sorry we were here 2 nights. Staff were lovely so helpful and friendly and breakfast was delicious. Several choices for… Read more
Wow! What a fabulous hotel, quirky and so clever how they have transformed this old power station into something really spectacular. Our room was gorgeous, really comfortable bed, balcony great amenities and huge bathroom, only sorry we were here 2 nights. Staff were lovely so helpful and friendly and breakfast was delicious. Several choices for dinner on the island but not loads. Take a drive up to the heads for great views. Will definitely come back Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Quirky hotel

Nov 13, 2023 Tracey R Newport, United Kingdom

Adapted from an old sawmill the restoration is fantastic with many pieces of machinery intact making for unique dining locations. Quiet comfortable bedroom. Lovely central location for lagoon boat trips and other adventures.