Perched on a dramatic headland, Pezula provides an upscale alternative to the quirky guesthouses found up and down this fashionable stretch of the east coast. There are 78 contemporary African-style suites, four to a villa. Thoughtful touches include huge flat-screen TVs, fireplaces, and indigenous tree-trunk side tables (a nod to Knysna's timber-logging past). Zachary's, the restaurant, treads a line between classic comfort food and innovative dishes inspired by local ingredients. A sumptuous lounge, a cigar bar, a library, and an impressive if pricey spa are all part of the imposing public areas. What disappoints is the incongruous exterior architecturethis hotel could be anywhere.
When to go: Summer (Nov.March).
Which room to book: For maximum peace and privacy, those with a bird's-eye view of the Knysna Lagoon; golfers should request one that overlooks the championship 18-hole course
Amenities:
Bar/lounge,
Gym,
Pool,
Spa,
24-hour Room Service,
Wheelchair-accessible