Fodor's Expert Review Phantom Forest Eco Reserve
Phantom Pass, 6570, South Africa Fodor's Choice
On a private 450-acre nature reserve, this stunning lodge, set in the tree canopy of the indigenous Knysna forest, offers guests the opportunity to sleep in luxury tree houses built from sustainable woods. The bathrooms are a celebration in themselves, with the baths under an atrium of glass jutting out into the tree canopy. The secluded location and clever design ensure complete privacy for each suite, and the living areas are linked by elevated wooden walkways to protect the forest floor below. The lodge is famed for its restaurant, the Forest Boma, which offers contemporary, classical six-course meals with dishes such as springbok carpaccio; pawpaw, carrot, and ginger sorbet; and crispy prawns with spiced coconut sauce. Service is outstanding. Nonguests can book a table for dinner.
PROS
- spacious and luxurious bathrooms, with under-floor heating
- lodge has a secluded feel although it's in the center of Knysna
- food and service are excellent
CONS
- lodge is up a steep hill so you need to be ferried up the hill by a lodge vehicle
- the N2 highway is some distance away, but the road noise does filter through
- views of the Knysna lagoon only from the Eyrie lounge area
HOTEL INFO
HOTEL DETAILS
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast, Credit cards accepted
