Once you have stepped through the door of The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa on Thesen Island, you are in for a big surprise.
As the name implies, this used to be a power station. Built in 1939 and used to feed the towns of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. It was fueled by scrap wood from a local sawmill.
Standing on the glass floor in the reception area, arriving guests can peer down at some of the pipework from the past that the hotel’s current owners have preserved.
This was the second stop on the final leg of the road trip that my wife and I recently completed.
Back in the day, when it was a working power station, I bet that the workers would have enjoyed a pool.
Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, sipping sundowners on the deck overlooking the canal, exploring your uniquely themed room, or enjoying dinner beneath the turbines in the Island Café, the industrial past is never far away.
Now, it is here for the guests’ entertainment.
Our accommodation, or at least a part of it.
The room was more than comfortable and spacious enough for the two of us to unpack and unwind without tripping over each other.
I have to say that for us, this seating area was underutilised, as we spent most of our stay here either wandering around town or exploring all the nooks and crannies of the hotel.
I spent a lot of time before breakfast sitting on this intimate balcony that offered wonderful views and reflections.
Unlike many bathrooms I have visited over the years, this one stood out.
It was spacious, and with the decor kept to a minimum, it was relaxing to spend time here.
The sanitaryware was modern, yet classic.
I am not so certain about the ‘extra’ lights alongside the mirrors; however, I am certain that there are guests who find them useful.
And for those who still prefer a bath, they have been catered for.
For me, the difference between those who bathe and those who shower are the way we see society presently.
Those who shower like the instant gratification that it offers. Turn it on and step in.
While those who bathe are prepared to wait while it fills, constantly checking the temperature before getting in to lie and soak away all their cares and troubles.
The bedroom section of our accommodation.
To the left is a small kitchen area where you can prepare snacks, or something more filling if you desire
Luckily, this was cleverly placed out of the way so that I did not bump my toes when headed to the bathroom in the dark.
This reflection was so perfect that telling which way was up was a problem.
In this image, the ripples give away which is the correct perspective.
Secreted amongst the pipework and the old fixtures and fittings, there are intimate seating areas for those who wish to be away from the hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant.
FYI: The power station closed its doors and ceased to operate on June 26th, 2001
Between 2007 and 2010, it underwent a total and extensive transformation by the current owners, Geoff and Dandre Lerm-Engel. During this renovation, the old machinery was restored and integrated into the design
In 2010, the Turbine Hotel officially opened its doors
Just in case there is a pop quiz…
This is the main restaurant… The Island Cafe.
Breakfast is served.
This is a meal that requires restraint, as there was a variety of both hot and cold offerings.
Although this might look like the beginning of a healthy breakfast, it quickly deteriorated into a decadent plate of bacon and crumpets with syrup.
A bar, for hot and cold beverages as well as your favourite brand of spirits.
In recognition and support of the Knysna art community, the hotel showcases local artists. All the works are on sale, a great way to take your Knysna memories home with you.
And as you have to walk through this area to get from the reception to the bar and the restaurant, take a moment to admire the featured art.
Lunch is served… too much for one sitting, it became both lunch and dinner for me.
A cosy area to sit, relax and contemplate.
You can put away all your digital devices and focus on the slow passage of time as it inevitably moves from holiday-defining times… Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
I got up early one morning, and I was rewarded with this view from the balcony of our accommodation..
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