Simola, Knysna, Western Cape: Golf Estate Living on the Garden Route

Simola is an upmarket golf and country estate overlooking the Knysna Lagoon in the Western Cape. Set on the hills above town, it blends secure estate living with Garden Route scenery and access to everyday amenities. Buyers are drawn to its Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, hotel and spa facilities, and proximity to beaches, forests, and watersports, making it appealing for primary residences, semigration, or a well-situated holiday home in Knysna.

Location and Accessibility

Positioned about 5 km above Knysna’s town centre, Simola sits off Old Cape Road (R339), which links directly to the N2 highway. This places residents within a short drive of the Knysna Waterfront, Thesen Island, and the CBD. George Airport, the Garden Route’s main air hub with domestic connections, lies roughly 70 km west along the N2, typically under an hour by car. Regional attractions in Plettenberg Bay are around 30–40 minutes east, making Simola well placed for coastal and forest outings.

Lifestyle and Amenities

The Simola Golf and Country Estate is anchored by a Jack Nicklaus Signature 18‑hole course, known for sweeping lagoon and forest views. The Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa offers dining, a fitness centre, spa treatments, and conferencing, while the estate’s roads and green belts suit walking, running, and cycling. Everyday needs are easily met in Knysna with shopping at Knysna Mall and Woodmill Lane Shopping Centre, plus dining and leisure at the Waterfront and Thesen Harbour Town. Families have access to reputable schools including Oakhill School, Knysna Primary, and Knysna High School. Healthcare is covered by Life Knysna Private Hospital and public facilities in town. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy boating on the lagoon, trips to the Knysna Heads, and nearby forest reserves.

Upcoming Events

Simola is closely associated with the annual Simola Hillclimb, a prominent South African motorsport event held on the estate’s hill that attracts competitors and spectators from across the country. Knysna’s broader calendar includes the Knysna Oyster Festival during winter, featuring food, sport, and family activities, as well as the Knysna Cycle Tour and the Knysna Forest Marathon. These well-supported events boost visitor numbers and short-term rental demand, adding lifestyle vibrancy and seasonal investment appeal to the Simola, Knysna area.

Property Market Overview

Property in Simola, Knysna comprises architect-designed freehold homes on elevated stands, sectional-title lodges and suites associated with the hotel, and vacant plots for custom builds. Homes often prioritise views, indoor-outdoor living, and energy-efficient features, with 24-hour estate security and controlled access. Buyers range from families and semigrants seeking a primary residence to retirees and holiday-home owners wanting lock-up-and-go convenience. Investors consider the hotel-linked units and short-stay demand driven by peak holiday seasons and major events. The combination of amenities, security, and location underpins long-term appeal in the Western Cape.

Conclusion

Simola in Knysna, Western Cape offers secure estate living, a signature golf course, and quick access to the amenities and natural attractions of the Garden Route. For buyers and investors seeking balanced lifestyle and investment fundamentals, Simola stands out for its setting and facilities. Explore current properties and opportunities in Simola on MyProperty.co.za.