A WORLD OF ADVENTURE AWAITS
A WORLD OF ADVENTURE AWAITS
WELCOME TO PORTLAND MANOR,
A COUNTRY ESTATE IN THE GARDEN ROUTE
Portland Manor is a historical country estate, situated on a working farm in Rheenendal, a 25 minute drive from central Knysna, on the scenic Garden Route. Surrounded by 212 hectares of undisturbed wilderness with forests of indigenous trees and rich birdlife, the recently refurbished Residence and Manor House have views across the landscaped gardens to the Lawnwood Dam and beyond to the Outeniqua Mountains.
With some activities available on-site and many more in the surrounding forests, mountains and beaches, outdoor sports lovers will revel in the trails for hiking, running and mountain biking, and the expansive dam which offers fishing, paddling and swimming. For those who just want to escape the bustle of city life, this country estate, close to the Knysna forests, is the perfect opportunity to kick back, relax, appreciate the beautiful surrounds and breathe in the fresh country air.
Nestled in the heart of nature, our farm is home to thriving macadamia nut orchards, vibrant stretches of fynbos and proteas, and our signature Portland Lamb, raised with care and integrity. We’re proud to nurture this land and share a small part of its bounty with you.
STEP INTO OUR WORLD…
Embark on a virtual jouney of our historic Portland Manor Estate, and be transported to a world of refined opulence. Immerse yourself in the warm embrace of classic design, where antique furnishings, delicate chandeliers, and intricate woodwork create an ambiance of pure enchantment.
New: the cowshed
eatery
Our rustic, country restaurant, the Cowshed Eatery, is open Friday to Sunday from 8:30 till 4 pm.
Chef Desmond Morgan’s menus feature wholesome breakfasts and fire-based lunch dishes prepared with the freshest local ingredients in the wood-fired outdoor ovens.
We cook on open fires and in this way contribute to the sustainability of Portland Manor, using wood that is being cleared from the estate as part of our conservation project.
ELEGANT COUNTRY
COMFORT
The newly refurbished Residence offers comfortable accommodation in three room types: Standard, Deluxe and Family.
All rooms are elegantly decorated in a contemporary Victorian style, some with wood-burning fireplaces and doors that open into the garden, others on the first storey with balconies.
Ensuite bathrooms have showers or baths. All rooms have cotton linen, extra blankets flat screen TVs, tea and coffee stations, and heaters are standard.
elegant country comfort
Standard rooms
Our Standard Rooms are on the second floor of the Hotel Residence and open onto balconies where you can sit and enjoy your morning coffee.
deluxe rooms
Deluxe rooms are spacious and airy and all have wood-burning fireplaces. Some have patios overlooking the estate gardens.
family rooms
The Family Rooms have 2 bedrooms, each with twin beds, and a shared foyer and bathroom. They are ideal for families or friends travelling together.
our story
As the custodians of Portland Manor’s History, RussellStone Group’s vision and core objective is to rehabilitate this 212-hectare property, restore it to its former glory, and for it to become the main activity hotel destination in the greater Knysna area.
THE PERFECT PLACE TO RELAX
OR SEEK ADVENTURE
escape to the countryside
Tripadvisor review
A very delightful surprise close to Knysna but in a quiet, secluded beautiful nature setting. The Manor Building, Rooms, Layout Swimming pool, Restaurant and Garden and Open spaces, Walking trails, Friendly and Professional service – all contributed to a memorable Experience.
getting
here
Portion 30 of Farm Portland, No. 187, Rheenendal Road, Knysna, 6570.
Portland Manor is situated inland off the N2 and is equidistant from the seaside towns of Knysna and Sedgefield. From the N2, take the Rheenendal turnoff and travel approximately 11,5 km. Turn right at the Portland Manor signboards. Follow the signs to the hotel, pub and restaurant.
Portland Manor Knysna
Coming soon
PORTLAND CAMINO
A Journey Inspired by Circles in the Forest and the Land That Birthed It
Some paths are more than trails—they echo the footsteps of those who walked before. The Portland Camino is more than a journey through nature; it is a pilgrimage of the soul, shaped by Circles in the Forest and the land that inspired it.
This route winds through ancient forests and meandering rivers, offering a space for reflection and connection. Drawing from Dalene Matthee’s novel, which tells the story of a woodcutter caught between the forces of progress and his deep connection to the forest, this walk encourages reflection on the fragile harmony between humanity and nature.
Each step is an invitation—to listen, to remember, to return to something ancient yet personal. The trees stand as silent witnesses, the wind carries forgotten truths, and the earth welcomes all who walk with intention.
This is more than a walk. It is an invitation to look within, surrender to the wilderness, and in that surrender, rediscover home.
Stay tuned—your journey into serenity is about to unfold.