The Drift-in at Nautilus Cove

Leisure Isle Festival 2025
2025-11-08 - 2025-11-09 | Kingsway Park, Leisure Island, Kingsway Park, Leisure Island, Knysna, Western Cape, 6571, South Africa
Get ready for a weekend of creativity, community, and celebration at the Leisure Isle Festival 2025, taking place on 8 & 9 November in the heart of Knysna. This beloved annual event brings together local artists, crafters, food vendors, and musicians, creating a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can shop, explore, and enjoy the best of Knysna’s culture.
A Festival of Treasures
The Leisure Isle Festival is more than just a market—it’s a celebration of local talent and community spirit. Stroll through stalls filled with handmade crafts, unique artworks, and delicious homemade treats, all while soaking in the beautiful island setting.
🎨 Art & Craft Exhibitions – Discover stunning pieces from local artisans, perfect for gifts or keepsakes.
🍽️ Food & Drink Delights – Indulge in homemade delicacies, craft beers, and specialty teas.
🎶 Live Music & Entertainment – Enjoy performances from local musicians, adding to the festive atmosphere.
🏃 Fun Run & Walk – Join the 4km Fun Run or 1.2km Fun Walk, with proceeds supporting local charities.
Support Local & Give Back
The Leisure Isle Festival is not just about fun—it’s about giving back. Every year, the event raises funds for charities and community projects, making it a festival with heart.
Stay at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove for the Perfect Festival Weekend
After a day of exploring, shopping, and celebrating, unwind at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove, a cozy retreat just a short drive from Leisure Isle. Enjoy peaceful lagoon views, comfortable accommodations, and easy access to Knysna’s top attractions.

Knysna Extreme Triathlon 2025
2025-11-01 | Jetty next to Sirocco, 28 Thesen Island, Knysna, Western Cape, 6570, South Africa
Are you ready to take on one of South Africa’s most challenging endurance events? The Knysna Extreme Triathlon and its shorter counterpart, the Knysna Extreme 0.5, offer two thrilling race options set against the breathtaking scenery of Knysna. Whether you’re an ultra-distance athlete or looking for a serious challenge with a shorter course, this is an experience designed to push your limits.
Knysna Extreme Triathlon – The Ultimate Test
🏊 2.5km Open-Water Swim – Begin the journey in the Knysna Lagoon, battling deep waters and unpredictable currents.
🚴 174km Cycle – Ride through steep climbs, thrilling descents, and stunning mountain passes, taking in the beauty of the Garden Route.
🏃 50km Run – Conclude the race with a marathon through scenic trails and rugged terrain, with breathtaking oceanfront views.
This race demands strength, endurance, and mental grit, making it one of South Africa’s toughest extreme triathlons.
Knysna Extreme 0.5 – A Shorter, But Still Challenging Option
Not ready for the full event? The Knysna Extreme 0.5 is a half-distance race that still delivers plenty of excitement:
🏊 1.5km Swim – A challenging but manageable open-water swim in Knysna Lagoon.
🚴 100km Cycle – Ride along beautiful coastal and mountain roads, offering a mix of climbs and fast sections.
🏃 30km Run – End with a scenic and demanding run, featuring forest trails and lagoon views.
This is a perfect option for triathletes looking to test themselves in a demanding race that’s still extreme—just in a slightly shorter format.
Stay at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove – The Perfect Race Retreat
After pushing your limits, The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove offers a comfortable and peaceful escape just a short drive from the race venue. Relax, recover, and reflect on your incredible achievement while enjoying the tranquility of Knysna.

Gravel Burn 2025
2025-10-26 08:00 - 2025-11-01 17:00 (Africa/Johannesburg)
Get ready for an epic gravel adventure as the Nedbank Gravel Burn 2025 kicks off in Knysna, setting the stage for a 7-day, 800km endurance challenge through South Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.
A Race Like No Other
Starting in Knysna’s lush coastal forests, riders will embark on a journey that takes them through rugged mountain passes, vast Karoo plains, and remote wilderness camps. With 11,000m of climbing, this race is designed to test skill, endurance, and determination.
The Route Highlights
🚴 Day 1: Knysna’s Coastal Forests – Begin your adventure in the heart of the Garden Route, surrounded by towering trees and winding gravel roads.
🚴 Day 3: Entering the Great Karoo – Experience the dramatic shift from lush greenery to the semi-desert landscapes of the Karoo.
🚴 Day 7: The Grand Finish at Shamwari Game Reserve – After days of intense riding, cross the finish line in Big 5 territory, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Gravel Burn 2025
🔥 Full-Service Race Experience – Enjoy Burn Camps, where riders rest under star-filled skies with top-tier amenities.
🔥 Unmatched Scenery – From coastal forests to arid deserts, every stage offers a new and stunning backdrop.
🔥 Elite & Amateur Riders Welcome – Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a passionate gravel enthusiast, this race is built for all levels.
Stay at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove – Your Perfect Pre- and Post-Race Retreat
Before or after diving into the grueling challenge of Gravel Burn, unwind at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove in Knysna. This cozy and well-located retreat offers the perfect space to rest, prepare, and soak in the beauty of Knysna before race day.

Pink Walk - Breast Cancer Awareness
2025-10-18 08:00 - 10:00 | Engen 1 Stop, Engen 1 Stop, N2, Sedgefield, Western Cape, 6572, South Africa
Join a morning of fun, energy, and solidarity as we dress in PINK to raise awareness for breast cancer! The event kicks off at 08:30, with participants gathering from 08:00 at Engen/Wimpy Sedgefield—come early to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Enjoy a relaxed 4.5km walk around the Island, with a water station available along the route to keep you refreshed. Remember, this is not a race—it’s a celebration of strength, hope, and awareness.
After the walk, FREE coffee from Wimpy will be served as a token of appreciation for joining in. No entry fee required—everyone is welcome to take part in this meaningful event.
Put on your pink and step forward for the cause!

Tour de Plett
2025-10-18 07:00 - 15:00 | Keurbooms Lagoon Caravan Park, Keurbooms Lagoon Caravan Park, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape, 6600, South Africa
Partake in the Tour de Plett
Get out there and enjoy a great day of riding on some of Plett’s most challenging and rewarding mountain bike trails! Whether you’re tackling the 60km, 40km, or 16km race, this event has something for every rider—from seasoned pros to weekend warriors.
THIS YEAR INCLUDES THE FINAL ROUND OF EDEN MTB XCM SERIES – with Eden Colors up for grabs! Don’t miss your chance to compete in this thrilling series finale.
Join fellow riders for an epic adventure through breathtaking scenery, well-designed trails, and an unforgettable race atmosphere. Ready to ride? See you at the start line!

Garden Route Kite Festival
2025-10-12 09:30 - 16:30 | Scarab Arts & Crafts Village, Scarab Arts & Crafts Village, Sedgefield, Western Cape, South Africa
The Garden Route Kite Festival returns to Sedgefield on Sunday, 12 October 2025, promising another vibrant day of fun, creativity, and community spirit. Held next to Scarab Village, this beloved event invites families, kite enthusiasts, and curious visitors to enjoy fresh air and festive energy.
Look up to see a sky filled with kites of all shapes and sizes—flown by local kids and seasoned pros alike. But there’s more than just spectacular aerial displays. With 50+ craft and food stalls, live music, and exciting activities for all ages, there’s something for everyone. Kids can enjoy games and face painting, while animal lovers can watch dog agility demos and meet adorable KAWS puppies looking for homes.
Whether you’re a local or just road-tripping along the Garden Route, don’t miss this uplifting event. Save the date and experience the Garden Route Kite Festival in Sedgefield at its best!
Book your stay at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove.

Plett Arts Festival 2025
2025-10-03 08:00 - 2025-10-12 17:00 | In and Around Plettenberg Bay, 7 Church Street, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape, 6600, South Africa
Immerse yourself in art, culture, and creativity at the Plett Arts Festival 2025, just a short scenic drive from Knysna! From 3 to 12 October 2025, Plettenberg Bay transforms into a vibrant artistic hub, showcasing music, fine art, drama, dance, and land art against the breathtaking backdrop of the Tsitsikamma mountains, ocean, and fynbos landscapes.
Your Perfect Stay in Knysna
Escape the festival crowds and unwind at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove, a cozy retreat in Knysna that offers comfort, convenience, and easy access to Plett’s artistic wonders. After a day of exploring galleries, performances, and exhibitions, return to a peaceful space where you can relax and reflect on the beauty of the festival.
Must-Visit Galleries at Plett Arts Festival
During your visit, explore some of Plett’s finest galleries, featuring local and international artists:
🎨 Milkwood Framing and Gallery – A showcase of stunning contemporary and traditional artworks.
🎨 Dallas Smith Gallery – A must-visit for lovers of bold, expressive pieces.
🎨 Selah Fine Art Gallery – Featuring thought-provoking and elegant collections.
🎨 Bronze Fields Foundry – A unique space dedicated to sculpture and metalwork.
🎨 Iku Studio – A creative hub for modern and experimental art.
A Festival Experience Like No Other
From the Twilight Meander on Main Street, where musicians and exhibitions light up the town, to the Plett Land Art Route, showcasing ephemeral works in natural settings, the Plett Arts Festival is a celebration of creativity and connection.
Make the most of this art-filled escape while enjoying the comfort and charm of Knysna. Book your stay at The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove and experience the best of both worlds—art and relaxation!
Book your stay now at The Drift-In, just a short drive away. Book your stay.

National Boyfriend Day 2025
2025-10-03 | The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove, 12 Cove St, Knysna, Western Cape, 6571, South Africa
Make National Boyfriend Day extra special by whisking your love away for a romantic weekend in breathtaking Knysna. Nestled in a coastal paradise, The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove is the perfect retreat for intimate moments, adventure, and relaxation, offering everything you need to create unforgettable memories together.
A Weekend of Love & Luxury
Wake up in a beautiful, cozy space, where tranquil surroundings set the scene for a weekend made for romance. Sip morning coffee on the balcony, stroll hand-in-hand along Knysna Quays, and indulge in a day designed just for the two of you.
Romantic Experiences to Treasure
💙 Sunset Cruise on the Knysna Lagoon – Drift across the shimmering waters with champagne in hand as the sky turns golden.
💙 Trip to Noetzie Beach & It’s Castles – Walk hand-in-hand along this hidden gem, where stone castles meet unspoiled nature.
💙 Couples’ Spa Treatments – Indulge in a luxurious spa experience, complete with soothing massages and pampering rituals.
💙 Seaside Picnic at Brenton-on-Sea – Enjoy a private picnic, surrounded by breathtaking ocean views.
💙 Lookout Point at The Heads – Take in the dramatic cliffs and endless ocean views, the perfect backdrop for a romantic moment.
The Perfect Romantic Getaway
After a day of adventure and indulgence, retreat to The Drift-in @Nautilus Cove, where comfort and connection come together. Pour a glass of wine, reminisce about shared memories, and celebrate the love you share in one of the most stunning destinations on the Garden Route.
Book your stay now and turn National Boyfriend Day Weekend 2025 into a love-filled escape neither of you will ever forget!
