Phantom Forest Eco Reserve
Location: Knysna, Garden Route, Western Cape, South Africa
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Address
Phantom Pass Road
Knysna
Garden Route
Western Cape
South Africa
Overview
The Phantom Forest Eco Reserve is beautifully situated 7 km from Knysna in the heart of the Garden Route, South Africa. This magnificent and lush property occupies 137 hectares of private nature reserve comprising of 3 biospheres, which are the Afromontane Forest, the Cape Coastal Fynbos and the Estuarine Wetland.
Using only sustaining materials, from ragged thatch rising through the forest canopy, to wood shingle, from a fresh water pool to meandering boardwalks, in true eco terms the intrusion of man into Nature's wonderland has been graciously accepted by both flora and fauna. Winner of Africa's Leading Eco Destination 2007 from the World Travel Awards is proof that the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve observes a strong green code ethic.
Guests are welcome to end off a relaxing lazy day in The Eyrie Bar, sipping a sundowner drink whilst watching the day fade slowly into dusk.
The Forest Boma at the Phantom Forest Retreat in Knysna offers award-winning international cuisine for the most discerning palate: a six course dining experience, which ends on the firedeck sipping liqueurs or aromatic African coffee. The Chutzpah, a Moroccan styled fantasy with wrap-around pool, serves a North African baroque feast.
A variety of activities are available for the more energetic ranging from a quiet paddle up the river with a delectable picnic, to a stroll through the forest, where the shy Duiker and Bushbuck hide. Birdwatchers are in for a treat while staying at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve, as the forest is home to over 160 bird species. Golf, sailing and beaches are located nearby.
Accommodation at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve
The magic continues with the interior ambience which is an African celebration of natural textures: from silky percale linen, and hand woven coir carpets to stunning glass roofed bathrooms where bathing to the symphony of birdsong or the quiet contemplation of the African night sky... is a sensuous and unforgettable experience.
With breathtaking views of the lagoon or forest, the 14 elevated luxurious tree-suites at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna differ in layout and décor. Each features a mini bar and fridge, and a full range of teas and coffee. Romantic and private, the accommodation at Phantom Forest is the perfect combination for lovers and nature lovers.
The 6 Classic Tree Suites at Phantom Forest, Garden Route, with indigenous tree names comprise of entrance area, bedroom and sitting room, end-glass gable, bathroom with glass roof over double-ended bath, twin basins, separate shower room with bidet and toilet, and relaxing deck. Natural fabrics in subtle creams, earth tones and black, echoing Xhosa style complete the mood.
The 4 Upper Tree Camp Suites, which are named after plants found in the Fynbos Kingdom, offer a different mood with separate sitting room, large bedroom, outside deck with sunken-jetted bath. A full bathroom with double basins and glass walled shower, leads into separate area, with double ended bath, toilet and bidet, lit through a glass roof. These particular suites at Phantom Forest are perfect for honeymooners.
The 4 Moroccan Tree Suites, which have been named after fauna resident on the reserve, offer a touch of excitement and are decorated in a lush North African style. The suites comprise of an entrance area, large bedroom, sitting area, bathroom with double-ended bath set in glass, double basins, and a separate room with double shower, toilet and bidet. Each has a large outside deck.
The Classic Tree-suites:(6 tree-suites)
en-suite bathroom with double-ended bath and twin basins, separate shower room with double shower, bidet and toilet. Bedroom with lounge area plus outdoor living deck.
Upper Tree-camp suites:(4 tree-suites)
en-suite bathroom with double shower inside, and outdoor living area with jacuzzi/bath on the deck. Bedroom with separate lounge area.
The Moroccan Tree-suites:(4 tree-suites)
en-suite bathroom with double bath and basins, separate double shower, bidet, and toilet. Large bedroom with lounge area and private deck outside.
The Body Boma at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve
The Body Boma at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve offers a spiritual journey in a timeless place of peace and tranquility. Guests are invited to become lost to the world as the therapists work hand in hand with "Mother Nature", bringing treasures from the ancient waters of the Dead Sea or the wild Skeleton Coast, from the bounty of the Fynbos kingdom or the primordial Basalt stones of the Namib Desert.
With treatments such as "Mineral Mantle" or "Forest Fusion", "simply Stone" or "African Sea Escape" the inner mind drifts to a far space. Other romantic treats include a private "Bubble Barrel" and sauna which is the perfect setting to enjoy a special moment with your loved one.
Business Meetings
The Business Boma is a great location for intimate business meetings, seating up to 14 delegates.
Directions to Phantom Forest Eco Reserve and Lodge
Phantom Forest Lodge is 7 kilometres west of the picturesque Southern Cape town of Knysna, at the foot of the spectacular Phantom Pass.
When approaching from Cape Town, turn left onto the Phantom Pass road, the Phantom Pass turn-off is located just before the road bridge over the Knysna River. If you are approaching from Knysna, turn right immediately after crossing the Knysna River.
Follow the Phantom Pass road for about 1.2km and you will see Phantom Forest's entrance on the left, denoted by a wooden sign. The Phantom Pass Road is tarred until just beyond the entrance to the lodge. Turn left into the entrance and follow the cobbled track up to the gatehouse. You will park your car here and Phantom Forest's staff will transport you to the lodge.
Room Types
The Classic Tree Suites at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna, South Africa, have been given indigenous tree names such as Monkey Plum and Turkey Berry.
These elevated tree-suites feature an entrance area, a bedroom and sitting room, stunning end-glass gable, a sensuous bathroom with glass roof over double-ended bath, twin basins, separate shower room with bidet and toilet, and a relaxing deck.
Natural fabrics in subtle creams, earth tones and black, echo the South African Xhosa style. The Classic Tree Suites at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve enjoy views over the Knysna Lagoon or forest.
Keeping in line with exclusivity and adding substance to the word privacy, 6 serenely indulgent Classic Tree Suites have been created in harmonious balance with nature.
Today's Rate:
Single Room: R1930.00
Double Room: R2750.00
The Upper Tree Camp Suites at the magnificent Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna are intimate and romantic and provide the perfect honeymoon hideaway featuring two double ended baths. Guests are invited to count the stars together in the jetted outdoor bath, on their private deck or cosy up on the indoor daybed with a glass of wine or two.
Arum, Erica, Strelizia and Watsonia are named after species in the South African Fynbos Floral Kingdom. Bath in luxury to the symphony of birdsong or the quiet contemplation of the African sky.
Today's Rate:
Single Room: R2130.00
Double Room: R3150.00
The unique Moroccan Tree Suites at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna are in synergy with the theme of touch and taste Africa. These fabulous suites at Phantom Forest are decorated with a distinctly North African feel.
From the sensuous touch of silk and velvet to the visual beauty of mosaic and handcrafted lamps, the mood of a most fascinating part of Africa has been created.
Today's Rate:
Single Room: R2060.00
Double Room: R3020.00
Restaurants
Guests staying at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna at South Africa's magnificent Garden Route may enjoy dining at the boma where international cuisine with local colour is served in the classic style. End a memorable evening on the fire deck, sipping delectable African-blend coffee and liqueurs.
Address: Phantom Pass Road, Knysna, Garden Route, Western Cape, South Africa
The Chutzpah at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna is a sparkling Moroccan-style dining and leisure space, a time to play exotic North African baroque.
From mosaic chameleon to Goudi-style lizard lazing off thepool, from colourful cocktails to tagines, dates and Turkish delight, from candelabra to mellow hubbly bubbly pipes, this is another Phantom evening of feasting for the soul. The Chutzpah is open for special occasions and functions as well as for groups of 12 persons and more.
Address: Phantom Pass Road , Knysna, Garden Route, Western Cape, South Africa
Spa
As you start your spiritual journey through the heart of the Phantom Forest, experience this timeless place of peace and tranquillity. Become lost to the world as therapists work hand in hand with Mother Nature, bringing you treasures from the ancient still waters of the Dead Sea to the wild coast of the African Atlantic, from the bounty of the Fynbos Kingdom to the primordial Basalt Stones of the Namib.
Ultimate spa indulgence at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna, South Africa
The Minerale Mantle - 2 hours
Vitality, health and beauty, abound in the renewing properties of the Dead Sea, drawn exclusively from its mysterious life-giving waters. Share in the treasure trove of natural ingredients formulated in this ancient, mineral rich basin, renowned for its curative powers.
The waters of the Dead Sea contain an astounding 32% concentration of minerals - the highest in the world. Enigmatically, surrounded by parched desert sands, yet producing the greatest abundance of moisture retaining minerals on Earth. Be pampered and rejuvenated by this wellspring of vitality in our enchanting forest environment. Your treatment begins with the Ahava Dead Sea Mineral Body Scrub and an enveloping Black Mud body Wrap.
While your skin absorbs the mineral-rich nutrients enjoy a coconut oil head massage or reflexology and a purifying, facial mud-treatment. Benefit from a state of deep relaxation. Be revived with a warm Vichy shower, followed by a body polish of Aloe Vera, natural moisturizers and Ahava's own Osmeter compound. Be rejuvenated and revitalised! Properties of treatment: Soothing, cleansing and purifying, detoxifying, remineralising & rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory. This treatment is ideally followed by a one-hour classic massage of your choice.
African Sea Escape - 2 hours
Thriving in the strong oxygen-rich wave action of the sun drenched Atlantic surf zone, on the West coast of South Africa. Ecklonia maxima is fed by the upwelling, nutrient rich, cold Antarctic waters of the Benguella current.
This indigenous seaweed is hand harvested by divers and is processed under high pressure to prevent the denature of the cell contents. Trace elements, minerals, vitamins and amino acids, together with several polysaccharides (nature's natural moisturizers) are absorbed through the skin during treatment.
Experience the hydrating and detoxifying properties of this uniquely South African therapy. Your treatment begins with the Marine exfoliating scrub containing unrefined sea-salt, Ecklonia maxima granules and aloe oil.
This is followed by an invigorating Vichy shower and your choice of one of three Body Wraps:
- Micronised marine algae wrap - for a mild effect
- Toning body wrap - for a stimulation of blood and lymph flow
- Intensive anti-cellulite Contouring wrap (containing ivy extract) - for maximum impact on cellulite
Your Sea Escape Experience will conclude with the application of marine-based nutritive advanced body lotion to hydrate and firm the skin. Be energised and renewed.
Properties of the treatment: Stimulating blood and lymph flow, increasing metabolism, relieving water retention, hydrating and remineralising. This treatment can be followed by a one hour classic massage of your choice.
Signature Massage treatments
Amandla - 1½ hr
Kalahari Khoisan salt & Rooibos Body Scrub
Warm African Rain Shower Jets followed by Bucchu and Cape grape-seed oil Deep Tissue Massage.
Properties: Deep Tissue de-stress; diuretic; toning; anti-oxidant.
Forest Fusion - 1½ hr
Body Exfoliation of Khoisan Salt and Himalayan Cedarwood, followed by an invigorating Vichy Shower.
This treatment concludes with a full hour West African Shea Butter Fusion Massage.
Properties: Cleansing and refreshing.
Back to Nature - Earth - 1 hr
While enjoying soothing hand and foot reflexology, let your back experience the benefit of a Dead Sea Salt exfoliation and Mud treatment. This is followed by a warm Vetiver and Black Pepper Shea Butter back massage.
Properties: Relaxing, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory.
Back to Nature - Sea
Stimulating hand and foot reflexology combined with a Marine salt scrub and Seaweed back treatment. This therapy is followed by a brisk Cape Geranium and Peppermint back massage.
Properties: Cleansing and refreshing stimulant.
Classic Massage treatments - all 1 hour
Simply Stone
An individually designed therapy involving the use of Hot and Cold basalt stones; used for massage and placement on acupressure points, in conjunction with Swedish-style massage.
Properties: Energizing deep tissue de-stress.
African Sunrise
Awaken the day with a Khoisan salt foot scrub followed by Helichrysum and aloe oil, brisk, full body, deep tissue massage.
Properties: Stimulating and refreshing.
African Sunset
Warm and relaxing Aromatherapy massage, personalized for your needs from our vast range of essential oils:
A soothing coconut oil head massage finishes this special treatment.
Properties: Calming and relaxing.
Activities
As you start your spiritual journey through the heart of the Phantom Forest, experience this timeless place of peace and tranquillity. Become lost to the world as therapists work hand in hand with Mother Nature, bringing you treasures from the ancient still waters of the Dead Sea to the wild coast of the African Atlantic, from the bounty of the Fynbos Kingdom to the primordial Basalt Stones of the Namib.
Ultimate spa indulgence at the Phantom Forest Eco Reserve in Knysna, South Africa
The Minerale Mantle - 2 hours
Vitality, health and beauty, abound in the renewing properties of the Dead Sea, drawn exclusively from its mysterious life-giving waters. Share in the treasure trove of natural ingredients formulated in this ancient, mineral rich basin, renowned for its curative powers.
The waters of the Dead Sea contain an astounding 32% concentration of minerals - the highest in the world. Enigmatically, surrounded by parched desert sands, yet producing the greatest abundance of moisture retaining minerals on Earth. Be pampered and rejuvenated by this wellspring of vitality in our enchanting forest environment. Your treatment begins with the Ahava Dead Sea Mineral Body Scrub and an enveloping Black Mud body Wrap.
While your skin absorbs the mineral-rich nutrients enjoy a coconut oil head massage or reflexology and a purifying, facial mud-treatment. Benefit from a state of deep relaxation. Be revived with a warm Vichy shower, followed by a body polish of Aloe Vera, natural moisturizers and Ahava's own Osmeter compound. Be rejuvenated and revitalised! Properties of treatment: Soothing, cleansing and purifying, detoxifying, remineralising & rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory. This treatment is ideally followed by a one-hour classic massage of your choice.
African Sea Escape - 2 hours
Thriving in the strong oxygen-rich wave action of the sun drenched Atlantic surf zone, on the West coast of South Africa. Ecklonia maxima is fed by the upwelling, nutrient rich, cold Antarctic waters of the Benguella current. This indigenous seaweed is hand harvested by divers and is processed under high pressure to prevent the denature of the cell contents. Trace elements, minerals, vitamins and amino acids, together with several polysaccharides (nature's natural moisturizers) are absorbed through the skin during treatment.
Experience the hydrating and detoxifying properties of this uniquely South African therapy. Your treatment begins with the Marine exfoliating scrub containing unrefined sea-salt, Ecklonia maxima granules and aloe oil.
This is followed by an invigorating Vichy shower and your choice of one of three Body Wraps:
- Micronised marine algae wrap - for a mild effect
- Toning body wrap - for a stimulation of blood and lymph flow
- Intensive anti-cellulite Contouring wrap (containing ivy extract) - for maximum impact on cellulite
Your Sea Escape Experience will conclude with the application of marine-based nutritive advanced body lotion to hydrate and firm the skin. Be energised and renewed.
Properties of the treatment: Stimulating blood and lymph flow, increasing metabolism, relieving water retention, hydrating and remineralising. This treatment can be followed by a one hour classic massage of your choice.
Signature Massage treatments
Amandla - 1½ hr
Kalahari Khoisan salt & Rooibos Body Scrub
Warm African Rain Shower Jets followed by Bucchu and Cape grape-seed oil Deep Tissue Massage.
Properties: Deep Tissue de-stress; diuretic; toning; anti-oxidant.
Forest Fusion - 1½ hr
Body Exfoliation of Khoisan Salt and Himalayan Cedarwood, followed by an invigorating Vichy Shower.
This treatment concludes with a full hour West African Shea Butter Fusion Massage.
Properties: Cleansing and refreshing.
Back to Nature - Earth - 1 hr
While enjoying soothing hand and foot reflexology, let your back experience the benefit of a Dead Sea Salt exfoliation and Mud treatment. This is followed by a warm Vetiver and Black Pepper Shea Butter back massage.
Properties: Relaxing, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory.
Back to Nature - Sea
Stimulating hand and foot reflexology combined with a Marine salt scrub and Seaweed back treatment. This therapy is followed by a brisk Cape Geranium and Peppermint back massage.
Properties: Cleansing and refreshing stimulant.
Classic Massage treatments - all 1 hour
Simply Stone
An individually designed therapy involving the use of Hot and Cold basalt stones; used for massage and placement on acupressure points, in conjunction with Swedish-style massage.
Properties: Energizing deep tissue de-stress.
African Sunrise
Awaken the day with a Khoisan salt foot scrub followed by Helichrysum and aloe oil, brisk, full body, deep tissue massage.
Properties: Stimulating and refreshing.
African Sunset
Warm and relaxing Aromatherapy massage, personalized for your needs from our vast range of essential oils: a soothing coconut oil head massage finishes this special treatment.
Properties: Calming and relaxing.

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