This is by far the best National Parks chalet we have ever used.

A great place to stop and thoroughly rest-up for a couple of days when on a garden route trip.

​

Check-in is at the kiosk at the entrance of Garden of Eden on the N2 just a few minutes from Knysna.

Must check-in no later than 17h00, at which time you are issued keys to the closed park gates across the road, and the chalet in the forest. There is only one chalet which enjoys 100% privacy. Good gravel road to the doorstep, and parking at the front door.

​

The chalet is built on stilts and juts out amongst the treetops at the front. Not much of a view into the distance, but you are indeed sitting inside the tree canopy itself, with birds coming and going if you are not noisy.

Large and comfortable wooden structure comprising open plan lounge/kitchen, 1 bedroom with double bed, 1 bedroom with twin beds, 2 bathrooms, plenty cupboards, large verandah with table, chairs and loungers. Very safe (watch out for scorpions in the wood storage bins, and take usual precautions if walking in the forest). We found our citronella candles useful on the verandah and in the bedroom at night.

The chalet is expertly and comprehensively kitted out including, all bedding and towels, large fridge, stove, washing machine with detergents and tumble drier (great to catch up on your washing if on a longer trip), full range of kitchen utensils as well as dish-wash detergents (bring own paper-towels), braai (barbecue) with utensils and plenty free wood (bring own coal if desired), aircon., fireplace, TV with DSTV channels.  There is a security system (disconnected when we visited). There is a telephone line to Parks Board but you need to rely on your mobile (nearest reception is 120 meters up the road from the chalet and is poor).

We stocked up on ostrich fillet, boerewors and salads for the braai, bottled water and various snacks and treats (Knysna Pick&Pay). It is very easy to drive out to Knysna for meals at the great restaurants there, but we preferred to make our own and just totally chill out at the chalet.

​

There are walks through the forest if you want to stretch your legs and explore, but you will be tempted to just hang out in the absolute privacy and comfort of the chalet and live out your wildest Adam and Eve fantasies…

​

N.B. This refers to the Garden of Eden (near Knysna) which is part of South African National (SAN) Parks. The reviews of the Birds of Eden (near Plettenberg Bay), which is part of The South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA), are misplaced here.