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Featherbed is a privately-owned, registered Nature Reserve and a South African Heritage site, No.59. It is a pristine piece of paradise situated on the Western Head of Knysna and is accessible by ferry only. This spectacular four-hour eco-experience includes a return ferry trip, nature drive and guided walk, ending with a sumptuous buffet lunch at the Food Forest Restaurant.  The nature reserve offers Knysna adventure activities not to be missed.  A perfect outdoor family holiday activity to be enjoyed by both young and old

Featherbed Nature Reserve is a prime example of eco-tourism and in order to protect the splendour of the natural beauty, access to the Reserve is controlled. Numbers are limited and visits are only permitted in the company of the Reserve's specialist guides.

The Featherbed eco-experience starts with a 25-minute ferry cruise. Your local guide on board will share fascinating tales about the Knysna Lagoon, the early shipping industry and oyster cultivation.

On arrival at the Nature Reserve, visitors can enjoy a drive to the top of the Western Head in a 4 x 4 Unimog vehicle with trailers, stopping at a magnificent view point en route. Here unsurpassed views of the Lagoon, mountains and Knysna can be enjoyed, whilst our knowledgeable guides explain the history and ecology of the Reserve. After the drive, your specialist guide will take you on an optional 2.2 kilometre downhill nature trail walk.  Makes for an excellent family day activity finishing off with a  buffet lunch at this popular Knysna restaurant under the milkwood trees.

This 4-hour excursion departs daily and reservations are essential. It is a wonderful outing for the whole family - for all ages and fitness levels. Good walking shoes are recommended and remember to bring a camera, with plenty of film, hats in summer and a warm jacket for the ferry trip. In 1999, the Featherbed Nature Reserve was the only recreational outing chosen in South Africa by the Commonwealth Heads of State, and was a finalist in the Premier's "Tourist Attraction of the Year Award 2000".