06/10/2026
Knysna has always been known as the Jewel of the Garden Route. Not because of one defining feature, but because of the way so many worlds meet here. Ancient forests. Quiet estuaries. Rugged coastline. Rolling hills. Every corner holds a different story.
We like to believe that, at the centre of it all, sits The Lofts, on Thesen Island - geographically nestled in the middle of Knysna, at its beating heart.
Our emblem was created to honour all that is unique and special about Knysna, represented through the Small Five that call this remarkable place home.
Each creature reflects a different part of Knysna’s story: the Knysna Lourie, a symbol of our ancient indigenous forests; the Knysna Seahorse, found only in our estuaries; the Brenton Blue Butterfly, representing the fragility and balance of our ecosystem; the Knysna Dwarf Chameleon, hidden among the forest canopy, reminding us of the wonder waiting to be discovered; and the Knysna Leaf-folding Frog, a small but vital reminder that even the quietest voices play an essential role in a thriving ecosystem.
At the heart of the emblem sits the Mulder family crest - a nod to the family behind The Lofts and their integral role in the development of Thesen Island. It grounds the emblem in heritage, connecting the story of The Lofts not only to the natural world around us, but to the people and history that helped shape the place we call home.
Together, they tell the story of Knysna. Not simply as a destination, but as a place where nature, heritage and community exist in remarkable balance.
This emblem is more than a logo. It’s a tribute to the place we’re proud to call home. ❤️
