Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa

Knysna -34.00147400, 23.02681300 , 1 Old Cape Road (Show on Map)
8.8
Excellent


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Summary of reviewsSimola Hotel, Country Club & Spa offers a remarkable stay experience, harmoniously blending luxurious amenities with the natural beauty of Knysna. The hotel, perched atop a hill, provides guests with stunning panoramic views of the lagoon, Knysna Heads, and the picturesque golf course, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and golf enthusiasts. Visitors repeatedly praise its extraordinary location and serene environment, emphasizing its perfect setting for a peaceful escape amidst South Africa's beautiful landscapes.

The dining at Simola stands out, with breakfast particularly noted for its excellence. Guests describe breakfast as delicious and varied, often counting the buffet-style offerings among the best in South Africa. While dinner receives mixed reviews, those who enjoy the meals find them to be of superb quality and good value, bolstered by attentive service. Rooms at the hotel are spacious, clean, and elegantly furnished, often compared to small apartments rather than typical hotel accommodations. This modern design, combined with breathtaking views from private verandas, offers a delightful stay experience complemented by friendly and helpful staff.

Cleanliness is a strong suit at Simola, with guests appreciating the spotless rooms and well-maintained facilities. The staff's friendliness and professionalism enhance the overall guest experience, with many guests acknowledging the team's dedication to making their stay memorable. The spa adds a serene escape with a relaxing ambiance, highlighted by a heated pool with stunning views, although it could benefit from some enhancements. Similarly, the pool experience is enriched by beautiful settings and design, though families with children may find limited access due to adult-only areas.

Simola Hotel caters well to families, with spacious accommodations and a welcoming atmosphere contributing to a memorable holiday. The golf course is a standout feature, celebrated for its stunning views and immaculate maintenance, offering a dream-like setting for golf lovers. Comfortable beds in luxurious suites further amplify the hotel's appeal, aligning with its reputation as a five-star establishment offering high-standard service and accommodations. While some aspects, like maintenance and menu variety, could improve to fully match the five-star designation, guests generally leave with a sense of satisfaction and delight from their stay at Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa.
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Luxury Hotel
Perched above Knysna, Simola offers panoramic views, a championship golf course, and a tranquil spa. This luxury hotel provides an exclusive retreat with world-class facilities and bespoke service, perfect for golf and wellness enthusiasts.

Hotel near Golf Courses
This 5-star hotel boasts a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, one of only three in Africa. Located in the hills above Knysna, it offers stunning views of the Knysna River, lagoon, and the Heads. Golf carts are essential and included in the green fee due to the undulating terrain.

Hotel for Honeymoon
Situated in the hills above Knysna, this 5-star hotel features a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and a restaurant with lagoon views. It offers a luxurious and relaxing honeymoon experience with opportunities for golf and spa treatments.

Hotel with Spa
This 5-star hotel features a comprehensive spa offering various services including massages, body wraps, body scrubs, body treatments, facials, aromatherapy, and hydrotherapy. The spa facilities include massage and couples treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, and a Turkish bath/hammam.

Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including a kids' club and a swimming pool. The golf course and spa provide options for adult relaxation. Its location provides a secure and scenic environment for families.

Hotel with Swimming Pool
This 5-star hotel features a swimming pool, spa, and country club. It is situated on the Jack Nicklaus golf course, offering views of Knysna.

  Heated Pool    Indoor Pool    Panoramic View Pool    Outdoor Pool  


Business Hotel
This hotel features a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and a restaurant with lagoon views. The hotel offers amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services. It also provides a full-service spa with massages, body treatments, and facials.

Accessible Hotel
Simola Hotel is a five-star hotel that is listed as wheelchair friendly. It is situated on a golf course overlooking the Knysna Lagoon.

Hotel with Gym
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa offers fitness facilities.

5-Star Hotel
This hotel offers wonderful views over Knysna and its golf course, providing a luxurious and relaxing experience. It features a country club and spa, offering a variety of recreational activities and wellness treatments. The hotel is known for its excellent service and amenities.

Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa offers an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic views of the Knysna River and the surrounding indigenous forests. The pool area is designed to complement the luxurious and serene setting of the estate. [No specific citation for detailed pool features, but general amenities indicate an outdoor pool and scenic location.]

Hotel with Panoramic View Pool
Offers views of the Knysna Heads and the surrounding golf course from its pool area. Its location in Knysna provides a scenic and relaxing getaway.

Hotel with Indoor Pool
This 5-star hotel boasts a curved, glass-enclosed heated indoor pool, offering spectacular views. The indoor pool is integrated into the spa and gym area, which also provides a sauna, steam room, and Turkish bath/hammam.

Hotel with Heated Pool
Located in Knysna, this hotel offers a heated pool as part of its spa facilities, providing a relaxing retreat. The hotel's scenic location and modern amenities make it a top contender.

Romantic Hotel

Room Types
Executive Two-Bedroom Suite Overlooking either Knysna Forest or Knysna Lagoon, this spacious, 2-bedroom apartment features a balcony with barbecue facilities. The large open-plan lounge includes a fireplace, flat-screen satellite TV and a dining table. This is next to the modern kitchen area.

Luxury One Bedroom Suite Overlooking either the Knysna Forest or the Knysna Lagoon and the Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, this spacious and modern suite includes an open-plan lounge and kitchen with dining area, chandelier and fireplace.

Guest Reviews
8.8
Excellent
Location
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa enjoys an enviable position atop a hill, offering guests breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon, Knysna Heads, and the picturesque golf course. The hotel's location is consistently praised by visitors, who describe it as extraordinary, fabulous, and perfect for relaxation. Nestled in one of the most beautiful landscapes, Simola provides an ideal setting for those seeking a peaceful escape with family or the superb experience of golfing amidst stunning natural beauty.

The views from the restaurant are exceptional, allowing diners to gaze over the bay of Knysna and the verdant valley below. Many guests remark on the tranquility and uniqueness of the hotel's position, which grants gorgeous vistas and grand locations conducive to unwinding from life's bustle. Those staying at Simola can expect spectacular sights right from their rooms, offering a perfect sunset and a view into the valley that enhances the luxurious ambiance.

Though it may require a drive to town, the slightly remote positioning is welcomed for the serene environment it guarantees, making it a sought-after retreat for those prioritizing peacefulness over accessibility. The ample space and well-equipped accommodations further contribute to the exemplary stay experience. It's clear that Simola perfectly blends comfort with nature, delivering a memorable getaway in South Africa's beautiful Knysna region.

Breakfast
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa has earned a glowing reputation for its breakfast offerings. Guests regularly describe the breakfast as excellent, amazing, and delicious, often noting the variety and healthy options available. The buffet-style breakfast is frequently highlighted as one of the best encountered in South Africa, with hearty, well-prepared choices that cater to all tastes. Scones and healthy smoothies are particular favorites among guests, adding to the positive dining experience. Additionally, the breakfast scene is complemented by beautiful views, making it an enjoyable part of the stay.

While most reviews praise the breakfast, a minority note areas for improvement. Some guests feel that the selection could be more varied and that the breakfast offerings are sometimes repetitive. There are occasional comments regarding slow service and unmotivated staff, particularly in relation to coffee service.

Overall, the breakfast at Simola Hotel is highly praised by most guests for its quality, taste, and wide-ranging options, forming a noteworthy part of their experience at the hotel.

Dinner
The dining experience at Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa appears to offer a mix of experiences for guests. Many visitors praise the delicious and excellent dinners, with compliments extending to both the restaurant and the clubhouse. The food is often associated with good value and superb quality, with several guests highlighting the attentive service they received.

However, for some, the dinner experience did not meet expectations. There were mentions of limited menu options in both the restaurant and the bar, along with requests for a more diverse and creative selection. The inconsistency in the quality of dishes was noted, with some guests finding the menu lacking in variety and creativity.

While the opportunity to enjoy a nice dinner is certainly present, the overall impressions suggest there is room for improvement in ensuring that all diners have a consistently satisfying experience. Nonetheless, for those who had positive experiences, the meals were a memorable part of their stay.

Rooms
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa offers a remarkable experience with its spacious and well-appointed accommodations. The suites are often described as exceptionally large, resembling small apartments rather than typical hotel rooms. Guests appreciate the modern and luxurious furnishings, including well-equipped kitchens and pretty decor, making it ideal for longer stays. Many reviews highlight the beautiful views from these rooms, particularly overlooking Knysna Bay, contributing to a serene and picturesque stay.

Cleanliness and comfort are recurring themes, with rooms often praised for their tidiness and comfort. The accommodations are described as spotlessly clean, although there are occasional mentions of less-than-perfect cleaning. Some rooms show signs of aging, but overall, guests find them well-maintained and warm due to good insulation.

The spaciousness extends to the outdoor areas, with delightful verandas providing stunning views. The facilities complement the accommodations, offering everything needed for a comfortable stay. The service is highly regarded, with the staff noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, enhancing the overall guest experience.

While there are minor issues such as outdated maintenance and less satisfactory views in some rooms, the overall consensus is that the accommodation is impressive, offering both luxury and practicality for a memorable visit.

Beds
Guests at Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa generally find the beds to be quite comfortable, with many highlighting the comfort and warmth they experienced. While some visitors felt the beds were not up to their personal standards, others appreciated the luxurious feel of the suites, which featured sizeable and comfortable beds. The spacious rooms, coupled with functional bathrooms and fantastic views, contribute to an overall positive experience for many. However, there was a note about the spa beds needing some improvement, as they were mentioned to be extremely uncomfortable. Despite this, the general sentiment leans towards comfort and luxury, particularly within the suites.

Cleanliness
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa generally impresses guests with its cleanliness and maintenance. Visitors frequently highlight the spotlessly clean rooms and well-maintained facilities, complemented by comfortable furnishing and beautiful design. The housekeeping team excels in delivering clean and inviting accommodations, showcasing exceptional commitment to neatness. Many guests admire the hotel for its breathtaking views from its mountain top location, which offers stunning sunsets and a serene atmosphere.

While the majority of guests have positive experiences with the cleanliness, some reviews point out occasional issues such as stained carpets and a need for touch-ups on wall paint. However, these instances seem to be exceptions rather than the norm, overshadowed by the property's overall cleanliness and comfortable nature. The accommodations are typically described as clean and pleasing, making it a desirable destination for most travelers seeking an immaculate and cozy stay amidst remarkable natural beauty.

Staff
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa is renowned for its exceptional staff, who consistently impress guests with their friendliness and professionalism. The team at Simola is celebrated for being not only incredibly friendly but also attentive and efficient, truly embodying the five-star status of the hotel. Guests frequently rave about the warm greetings and personal service that make their stay memorable. The staff, from the front desk to the service personnel, are noted for their willingness to assist with any needs, showcasing a level of dedication that enhances the overall experience. The manager, Roxanne Marais, receives special acknowledgement for her helpfulness, further reflecting the hotel's commitment to excellent service. Despite occasional feedback about management, the overall impression is of a team that is delightful, accommodating, and goes out of its way to ensure a remarkable stay for every guest. From the superb kitchen staff to the attentive service throughout the hotel, visitors leave with a strong sense of being genuinely cared for, complemented by the beautiful surroundings and amenities that Simola offers.

Spa
Nestled within the beautiful setting of the Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa, the spa area provides a relaxing retreat for guests seeking a wellness escape. While the spa’s offerings are minimal and could benefit from some renovation, visitors often find the experience to be enjoyable and worthwhile. The highlight seems to be the heated pool, which boasts stunning views, adding to the overall impressive ambiance. Guests have expressed satisfaction with the service, particularly noting the exceptional assistance provided by Jessica at the spa. However, the early closing time and occasional lack of staff and towels have been noted as areas for improvement. Despite these minor setbacks, the spa remains a cherished part of the hotel experience, and many look forward to returning for another serene escape in the future.

Pool
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa offers a delightful pool experience within its expansive grounds, featuring both indoor and outdoor swimming options. The heated indoor pool stands out with its inviting warmth and offers sweeping views over Knysna, creating a pleasant atmosphere for a relaxing swim. This pool, designed exclusively for adults, showcases heated tiles that enhance comfort, ensuring a luxurious experience.

Meanwhile, the outdoor pool, though unheated, is set against a picturesque backdrop, providing stunning views that guests find appealing. The pool deck offers a serene setting for relaxation, making it a good spot to soak in the surrounding beauty. However, families traveling with children might find the pool situation less accommodating, as the heated pool is not accessible with children, leaving them with only the colder outdoor option. Suggestions have been made for the installation of solar panels to warm the outdoor pool, potentially improving the experience for younger guests.

Overall, the pool area is praised for its design and scenic location, with a focus on adult comfort in the heated pool, coupled with breathtaking views that enhance the poolside ambiance.

Family
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa provides a welcoming environment for families, especially those traveling with children. The hotel offers adjoining rooms and apartments, making it ideal for family stays. Guests frequently commend the friendly and helpful staff, who contribute to the family-friendly atmosphere. While there may be limited activities specifically for kids, the children's play area and the pool have been popular among young guests. Seasonal activities, like the Kids Easter Bunny hunt, add a special touch to the family experience. The hotel features spacious and well-equipped accommodations, including a well-stocked kitchen which is highly appreciated by families planning longer stays. With stunning views and a convenient location, Simola Hotel is a suitable choice for a memorable family holiday.

Golf
Nestled amid the breathtaking landscapes of Knysna, Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa stands as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts seeking unparalleled experiences. The golf course near the hotel has captivated guests with its stunning views, impeccable maintenance, and dream-like ambiance. It offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, where players can relish their morning rounds surrounded by the serene beauty of the course. For those keen on improving their game, golf lessons with Anthony come highly recommended, ensuring both fun and skill enhancement.

The proximity of the hotel to the golf course allows guests the convenience of early tee times, where they can appreciate the spectacular vistas. The facility is celebrated not only for its golfing excellence but also for its welcoming, friendly staff, particularly in the bar and restaurant. Guests can expect a delicious and extensive breakfast buffet, alongside other meal options at the onsite restaurant.

Simola is undeniably a haven for golfers, where high-quality course conditions are matched by the allure of fantastic views and an invigorating atmosphere. From clean air and soothing natural sounds to spacious suites and top-tier amenities, the accommodations contribute to an overall exceptional stay for those hoping to combine luxury and their passion for golf.

5 Star
Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa is often recognized for its exquisite 5-star accommodation and overall high standard, providing a comfortable and refined experience that aligns with the expectations of a luxury hotel. Guests consistently praise the top-tier service offered by the staff, who are described as friendly and helpful, embodying the essence of a true five-star establishment. The hands-on approach of the reception team, who take the time to show guests around, is particularly highlighted as a reflection of the warm and attentive treatment one might associate with premier hospitality.

Despite its many commendable attributes, some aspects of the hotel fall short of the five-star benchmark. Concerns are raised about the handling of maintenance and repairs, which appears to lack the required attention to detail for a hotel of this stature. Similarly, guests point out the need for more consideration regarding dietary preferences, such as avoiding cross-contamination during the breakfast service. Additionally, some express disappointment over the quality of bathroom amenities, towels, and bedding, which do not live up to the expected luxury standards.

While the experience at Simola Hotel is largely positive, with standout service and a commendable atmosphere, there are areas that require improvement to fully realize and maintain its five-star reputation.

Luxury
Nestled in the serene, gated community of Simola, the Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa stands as a beacon of luxury amidst the picturesque beauty of its surroundings. Renowned for its five-star status, guests are treated to an exceptional experience that seamlessly blends opulence with an unfussy, welcoming ambiance. The accommodation varies from luxurious chalets and suites to well-equipped apartments, perfect for longer stays, each designed to provide the utmost comfort.

The spacious, elegantly appointed rooms offer breathtaking views, allowing guests to soak up their stunning surroundings from private balconies. The meticulously maintained gardens invite leisurely strolls, adding a refreshing touch to the stay. The superb service of Roxanne and her team is frequently lauded, ensuring that every encounter is handled with care and attention. While some reviews noted occasional oversights in maintenance and repairs, the overall impression remains overwhelmingly positive.

The esteemed golf club within the hotel complex ups the ante on its premium offerings, catering to enthusiasts who appreciate leisure in luxury settings. Ultimately, Simola stands out as a truly five-star establishment, offering unparalleled service and exquisite accommodations, with a vibe that thoughtfully combines grandeur and friendly hospitality.


Yes, Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool, Panoramic View Pool, Outdoor Pool.

Yes, a spa is available at Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa.

No, Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa doesn't allow dogs.

No, parking facilities aren't available at Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa.

Yes, Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa has a gym.

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