The Senate Boutique Guest House in Knysna is a bed and breakfast on a hillside, overlooking the Knysna bay area and the surrounding hills. I stayed here for one night on my way from Johannesburg to Cape Town via the Garden Route in South Africa.
Finding Senate Boutique Guesthouse in Knysna
The Senate Boutique Guest House is in a secluded suburban area, just off the N2 highway on Milkwood Drive. It is a safe area where you can park your car overnight, although there are a few spaces behind the gate of the guest house.
Related: Read My Full, One Week South African Road Trip Itinerary Here
Entering The Gueshouse
You can enter the hotel through the electric gate by pressing a buzzer. The property has high walls and electric security, so it seemed like they applied the usual South African measures to protect the building.
First Impressions
I liked the big picture frame outside the gate and the green grass, as well as the reception area and the overall decor.
The Lobby Area
The lobby area of the Senate Boutique Guest House served as the reception, the breakfast room and in the evenings as the gathering place for the guests to watch TV.
Outside the lobby there were a number of desks and chairs and at the back of the property there was a big garden with a pool and a barbecue.
Checking In
We booked a double room on Booking.com about one hour before arrival, which was already ready when we got there. With Booking.com everything seems very easy and seamless, I have never had any disappointment using them.
The Lift and Public Areas
There was no lift in the Senate Boutique Guest House, only stairs but the ground levels were all easily accessible by wheelchair if you have one. My room was on the top floor, overlooking a nice seating area inside and outside.
Inside the Room
As I entered the room the double bed was in front of me and a walk in cupboard was on the left. The room was very bright and airy and it smelled fresh when we walked in.
The Bed
The bed was comfortable and after a whole day of walking and driving I slept like a log until the birds singing woke me up in the morning. The pillows were nice and firm and the duvet was warm and clean, so I had nothing to complain about.
The big flat screen TV was in front of the bed but I fell asleep almost as soon as I put my head down.
The Rest of the Bedroom
There was a fridge, an armchair, a kettle and a walk in cupboard in the room and a bedside cabinet on the right of the bed. There were enough plugs in the room and it was perfect for the one night stay.
Wifi In The Room
The wifi worked fine in the room although I did not use it very much as I fell asleep almost straight away.
The Bathroom
The bathroom had a special decor with some old furnishings and brass fittings. I really liked the free standing bath with its big brass tap and shower and the sink supported by an old fashioned cabinet.
Breakfast at the Senate Guest House
I really enjoyed the breakfast which was prepared by Phelisa, the all-in-one receptionist and housekeeper. She was very helpful and I must say the scrambled eggs she made were very delicious. Unfortunately I was too hungry and I ate them before I could take a photo! They also serve continental breakfast as well as fresh fruit juices and fruits.
Overall Impressions
We paid 720 Rand for two, including the breakfast which I think was a bargain, considering it was a nice guest house and the host was very friendly. If you are looking for somewhere quiet and only travelling across Knysna for the day then it is a perfect place.
Address: 84 Milkwood Dr, Old Place, Knysna, 6571, South Africa
Telephone: 0027 79 339 6359
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