As you drive up the gravel road towards the highest point in Knysna, the soulful salut of the resident fish eagle may welcome you to share the unfolding aerial views of the ocean, the lagoon, the estuary, the rivers, the mountains and the forest. Stretch out your limbs and take it all in, your whole self succumbs to the stillness, to become a part of this ancient and peaceful place.

Nestled near the top of the Western Head between the mountain side of the fabulously famous Knysna and the ocean side of Brenton on Sea, Alkira emerges from the earth like an eco-conscious warrior protecting the fynbos reserve it inhabits. Comprising of the main lodge with six ensuite bedrooms – which includes a self-contained apartment on the lower ground floor, and the option to include the gorgeous Shufflers Villa – this hideaway is fit to serve the greatest of gatherings for those multigenerational friend and family reunions. Beautiful ensuite bedrooms – with their luxury linens, generous bedding and sumptuous bath essentials – all open out to their own private patios. The resident bush buck are likely to saunter by – quietly and discreetly so as not to disturb your reclining or bathing – as you take in the gorgeous aroma and uninterrupted views of the nature that abounds. A TV-room and library, a slow lounge, dining and reclining spaces, a bar, indoor and outdoor cooking stations, long decks with long tables – extensions of luscious living spaces that propel you out through the large, folding glass doors, over the swimming pool, the jacuzzi, the lush lawn, into the thicket of the fynbos veld and bliss. The space is cohesive, yet endlessly forgiving and generous at every turn.

Beautiful bespoke pieces of furniture that have either been custom-made or sourced locally, sit side-by-side Italian treasures discovered in European market places and antique stores. Refined furnishings and high tech appliances marry the edgy, rugged romance of collectables with a contemporary appreciation for comfort. And utter luxury. This hideaway does not hold back on its aim to please in style and practicality. All in keeping with the magnificent nature outside.

It’s a blissful indulgence at any hour of the day – when the fires are lit in the evening and the colours transform over the Outeniqua mountains in the distance, the town below comes to life with speckles of sparkling lights, mimicking the magic of the night’s sky – as the sun rises and the air is still with the mist lingering over the bay and the songs from the birds darting through the morning breeze, bringing the hills back to life. And when it comes to the feasting – with Alkira’s Head Chef haling as a Lecturer at Prue Leith’s Culinary Institute you are at liberty to live in a kikoi all holiday long. For there will be little need for anything more than dipping in and out of the water, wandering about the beautiful fynbos veld, playing the odd game of cards with the competitive cousins and sipping and feasting. These hills are alive with music, merriment and more memories to be made with your favourite people.

What we love!

• Spending as many hours of the day in the jacuzzi, especially in the evening with a chilled glass of Chenin embracing the magnificent view.
• The breakfasts are a dream. Rising to homemade muesli, fresh fruit, breads and pastries from the gorgeous local Artisanal bakers, followed by a yummy hot breakfast to order – the omelettes and pancakes are out of this world. And then for a hot brew on the deck watching the world come to life. Or the hot tub again – completely up to you.
• All the little details in the bedrooms that add that extra notable touch of luxury and engage holiday mode as you unwind in comfort and seclusion. And then to allow those incredible views and the lulling nature sounds to drift through the room as additional features!
• When everyone gathers around the long table on the deck beside the outdoor braai and pizza oven, preparing supper ingredients whilst sipping on a local gin and tonic.
• Even though there is so much to do and so many places to explore around Knysna – and of course the surrounding areas – it’s lovely to be able to spend days on end completely satiated by hours of entertainment, respite, recuperation, feasting, frolicking in the water, and wandering the hilltops and local beach at Brenton on Sea, without having to leave the comfort of the environment. All you need is at Alkira.

What you need to know…

• Due to its capacity, Alkira Lodge and Shufflers Villa can be rented out exclusively to accommodate the masses, or individually should you not require the entire expanse of the property.
• There is daily housekeeping and a chef who is available to prepare all of your meals – the most exquisite culinary experience should you wish to go the extra mile – or you are at liberty to self-cater during your stay.
• There are a number of biking and hiking routes in the area – all of the information is provided.
• Once breakfast has been served, enjoyed and digested, it’s lovely to take a quick drive down to the beach for a long walk along the shoreline, and just soak up the general beach vibes or recoup at one of the local cafés and restaurants.
• Families with small children should be aware of the drop-off areas in certain sections of the deck that are not enclosed. The swimming pool is also exposed and not protected with a fence.