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From143US$ /night
Check-in
03Mar2026Select date
Check-out
04Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

The Boatshed, Long Street, Thesen Island, Knysna, South Africa
-
Next to the Knysna National Lake Area Entrance
Perfect
9.0
9.9
/10
4.6
4.7
/5

Location

The Lofts Boutique Hotel is situated on Thesen Island, offering guests direct access to the Knysna Lagoon and a Blue Flag Marina. This unique island location allows for a range of water activities and exploration in a scenic environment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shopping, dining, and recreational options at Thesen Harbour Town, all within walking distance.

Rooms

The hotel offers 18 stylish accommodations, including 7 Exclusive Lagoon Suites featuring breathtaking lagoon views. The 5 Luxury Loft Rooms provide open-plan designs that invite natural light in, while the 6 self-catering units come equipped with kitchens for extended stays. Sliding doors in the lagoon suites grant effortless access to the beautiful outdoors, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Dining

Nest Food Bar, located within the hotel, serves a diverse menu combining local flavors and seasonal ingredients. The acclaimed café and bakery, île de païn, offers artisanal pastries and dishes, making it a culinary highlight for visitors. Both options provide guests with unique dining experiences complemented by waterfront views.

Wellness

Le Spa Tranquille is located within the same building as the hotel, offering a wide range of pampering treatments and therapies. Guests can choose from massage options, body wraps, and specialized facial services to rejuvenate their senses. The spa aims to create a tranquil environment for relaxation and self-care.

Activities

With complimentary kayaks available, guests can explore the tranquil waters of the Knysna Lagoon at their leisure. The hotel serves as a convenient base for outdoor activities, including whale watching and kayaking. Nearby attractions like golf courses and scenic drives are easily accessible, allowing for a variety of experiences.

Highlights

Location: Thesen Island in Knysna Lagoon

Rooms: 18 stylish accommodations

Dining: Nest Food Bar & île de païn

Wellness: Le Spa Tranquille with various treatments

Activities: Whale watching and kayaking excursions

“This renovated historic boat shed provides unique, spacious apartments with modern design and lagoon views. The Nest Food Bar is popular, and the location allows for convenient access to Thesen Harbour Town and local shopping. I think that the complimentary activities, like seahorse tours and bicycle rentals, enhance the experience.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The Lofts Boutique Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
King Room Lake View
2 persons
410 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room
2 persons
315 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
Apartment
2 persons
1135 sq. feet 
2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bed
Shower
Bathtub

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The Lofts Boutique Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Concierge desk
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Barber shop
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Shops/Commercial services
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Children's play area
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Plunge pool
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Back massage
  • Head massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage
  • Pool with view
  • Make up services

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At The Lofts Boutique Hotel, delight in an enchanting culinary experience that captures the heart of local flavors. From the family-friendly atmosphere of The Nest to the relaxed charm of the atrium service bar, every meal transforms into a cherished occasion, whether indulging in a hearty breakfast or sharing moments over brunch and lunch.

The Nest

Casual dining featuring local favorites
Ambiance
Warm, family-friendly setting perfect for leisurely meals
Key Offerings
Signature dish includes Oven-Baked Organic Karoo Lamb Mince Bobotie served with yellow rice, sambals, and peppadew chutney. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, and lunch.
Reservation
No
Open daily from 08:00 to 20:00.

Atrium Service Bar

Light bites and drinks
Ambiance
Comfortable lounge area within a spacious atrium
Key Offerings
Enjoy a relaxed environment perfect for unwinding, watching sports, or catching up on news, accompanied by a selection of local craft drinks from places like Knysna Gin and Redbridge Brewery.
Reservation
No
All-day access; hours align with hotel operation

The Lofts Boutique Hotel Location

The Boatshed, Long Street, Thesen Island, Knysna, South Africa
Map view
The Boatshed, Long Street, Thesen Island, Knysna, South Africa
Nearby
The Parking Shed
The Motorcycle Room
1300 ft
TH 2 Long Street Thesen Harbour Town
Jandreart Studio
1300 ft
Island
Thesen's Island
1300 ft
TH44 Long St
Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching Knysna
1300 ft
Shop Th24 Saffron Street
Scootours
1300 ft
Restaurants
Sirocco
800 ft
Thesen Harbour Town Shop 28 Thesen Harbour Town
Tapas & Oysters
700 ft
Thesen Harbour Town TH29 Thesen Harbour Town
The Island Cafe
900 ft
Sawtooth Lane Thesen Islands
Freshline Fisheries
2300 ft
Railway Siding Dockyard Behind Tait Marine on way to Thesen Islands
The Drydock Food Co
3200 ft
Waterfront Shop 1
Cafe Mario
3200 ft
The Quays
Ocean Basket Knysna Quays
3200 ft
Shop21 The Waterfront
Falcon Creek Spur Steak Ranch
3300 ft
Waterfront Dr Shop 29A
Asami's House
3300 ft
Waterfront Drive Knysna Central
Explore Knysna
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Knysna Waterfront
12 minutes' walk
A vibrant hub with shops, restaurants, and stunning lagoon views, ideal for a relaxing stroll or casual dining.
Thesen House
10 minutes' walk
Historical home turned art gallery offering insights into local history and culture, perfect for art enthusiasts.
Old Gaol and Art Gallery
15 minutes' walk
A combination of history and art, featuring local artists and exhibitions come to life in a former prison.
Dalene Matthee Memorial
15 minutes' walk
A tribute to the renowned author, surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful setting for reflection.
Ocean Odyssey Whale Watching
5 minutes' walk
Thrilling excursions to see whales in their natural habitat, available at various times from May to December.
Scootours
5 minutes' walk
Fun-filled, downhill rides through stunning trails, perfect for adventure seekers looking for an adrenaline rush.
Yoga Classes
5 minutes' walk
Relaxation sessions in nearby studios offering yoga classes catering to all levels, perfect for rejuvenation.
Sirocco
3 minutes' walk
Casual eatery serving fresh seafood with stunning lagoon views. A must-try is the grilled calamari.
Tapas & Oysters
3 minutes' walk
Charming spot for Mediterranean bites and fresh oysters, known for its lively atmosphere and smaller plates.
Freshline Fisheries
9 minutes' walk
Local seafood market and restaurant famed for its fish and chips, ideal for a casual dining experience.
The Island Cafe
4 minutes' walk
Family-friendly atmosphere serving café-style dishes, great for breakfast or lunch. Offers vegetarian options.
The Motorcycle Room
5 minutes' walk
Vibrant venue showcasing local bands. Known for its lively music scene and casual vibe, ideal for a night out.
Jandreart Studio
5 minutes' walk
Art gallery hosting events showcasing local artists, making it a cultural hotspot for art lovers of all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Knysna17 min  ·  4600 ft
Airports
Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ)52 min  ·  21.3 mi
George Airport (GRJ)108 min  ·  44.6 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-21:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of ZAR 185 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Afrikaans, Xhosa
Number of rooms:
18

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Lofts Boutique Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 220 verified reviews
9.1/10
Perfect
94%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.0/10
Cleanliness
9.3/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.8/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.3/10
Staff
9.5/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Quirky design
Spacious rooms
Ideal location
Welcoming staff
Free kayak rental
Cons
Shower privacy
Guest reviews
based on 611 reviews
4.5/5
based on 535 reviews
9.0/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
Questions of the users
About The Lofts Boutique Hotel
Can I stroll across the bridge to get to Thesen Islands?
03 January 2024
Yes, the bridge to Thesen Islands is accessible for driving, walking, cycling, or scootering.
Does the hotel feature a heated swimming pool?
12 February 2024
The pool at The Lofts Boutique Hotel is not heated.
Is there a family suite available for my family of four?
20 March 2024
Yes, there are self-catering 2-bedroom apartments that can comfortably accommodate a family of four.
Can you provide information about the in-house dining options?
14 April 2024
The hotel has a restaurant called Nest, offering delicious food and drinks daily from 08:00 to 20:00.
Do you provide backup power during load shedding?
22 May 2024
Yes, the hotel is equipped with a generator for backup power during load shedding.
Is there free parking available for guests?
29 June 2024
Yes, complimentary parking is available for all guests at the hotel.
Are pets allowed to stay at the hotel?
10 July 2024
Unfortunately, the hotel does not accommodate pets.
Is the hotel accessible for guests with mobility challenges?
11 August 2024
The hotel does have an elevator, but some pathways may be narrow, and bathrooms might lack safety bars.
Does the hotel offer Wi-Fi service for guests?
05 September 2024
Yes, strong Wi-Fi bandwidth is available for those who need to work online during their stay.
Are there laundry facilities available for guests?
15 October 2024
The apartments do not have washing machines, but laundry services are available through an external provider.

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