Historic Yellowwood Lodge – A Timeless Victorian Guest House and Exceptional Investment Prospect

Step into a world where time slows down and every corner tells a story. Yellowwood Lodge is not just a guest house — it is a place of homecoming, a sanctuary where over many years travellers have arrived as guests and departed as family. Steeped in history and wrapped in an aura of quiet enchantment, this beautiful Victorian landmark has been lovingly cared for since the original home was built in 1905.

Perfectly positioned in the heart of Knysna, the lodge offers an easy stroll to the Knysna Waterfront, Thesen Harbour, boutique shops, local restaurants, and all the vibrancy that makes this coastal town so beloved. Its charm, elegance and warm presence have made it a favourite retreat for both local and international visitors, many of whom return year after year to relive memories made here.

Set on expansive grounds totalling 3 450m², the property is embraced by lush established gardens and tranquil pockets of shade. A sparkling pool glistens at the centre — an inviting oasis where guests unwind, share stories, and cool off on sun-drenched afternoons.

The lodge offers 12 beautifully appointed guest rooms, thoughtfully designed to echo the gentle romance of the Victorian era. The room mix includes:

1 Family Room

2 Triple Rooms

4 Double Rooms

5 Twin Rooms

Each room is spacious and warmly decorated with soft pastel tones, quilted comforts, elegant wooden furniture, and generous windows that frame the gardens or lead onto charming verandas and balconies.

Adding to its functionality, a separate three-room apartment provides ideal accommodation for an owner, manager, or extended-stay guest.

Inside the original main house, rich yellowwood floors and a handcrafted stinkwood staircase immediately envelop you in heritage and character. Oriental carpets, antique pieces, and lovingly curated décor create a sense of warmth and nostalgia — a place where one naturally wants to linger, settle in, and simply be.

Adding enormous appeal, the property carries General Residential zoning, offering exceptional versatility. This implies that it is not strictly commercial, allowing the original main house to function beautifully as a private residence while the remaining buildings continue as the lodge or are utilised for long-term rentals. The possibilities are remarkable — a multi-use estate, a hybrid guest house, a family home with income, or an expanded hospitality offering. So many different options exist for those with vision.

Additional features include:

Dedicated office with private bathroom

Large, well-equipped kitchen

Laundry facilities

Parking for 12 vehicles

Double garage

Yellowwood Lodge is a thriving, well-established going concern with a loyal clientele and an excellent reputation. Its prime location, historical charm, and sizeable grounds offer exciting potential for future expansion. Whether you envision enhancing the current guest house offering or transforming the lodge into something extraordinary, this is an opportunity to own one of Knysna’s most iconic and cherished properties.

A much-loved haven, a thriving business, and a rare piece of Knysna’s history — Yellowwood Lodge truly is a property where memories are made, and where coming home feels effortless. Zoned as general residential adds

Price is R14 000 000 plus 15% VAT.

For more information or to organise a personal viewing, please give me a call.

Nestled along South Africa’s celebrated Garden Route, Knysna is one of the country’s most captivating coastal towns — a place where natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a vibrant community come together in perfect harmony.

The town curves gracefully around a shimmering tidal lagoon, framed by the iconic Knysna Heads and surrounded by indigenous forests, fynbos-covered hills, and pristine beaches. From serene boat cruises to forest walks, world-class golf courses, restaurants, art galleries, and bustling markets, Knysna offers something for every lifestyle.