Knysna

From Freepedia

Knysna (pronounced NIZE-nuh or NACE-nuh) is a town in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It lies 34 degrees south of the equator, and is 72 kilometres from the town of George.

The town is primarily built on the northern shore of a large warm-water lagoon, fed by the Knysna River. The lagoon opens to the ocean after passing through two natural rock formations. These formations are popularly known as the "Knysna Heads," and have achieved infamy due to the deaths of fishermen while passing through their treacherous and unpredictable waters. Near them are geological formations, known locally as "The Map Stones."

The town is a popular destination for both tourists and senior citizens entering retirement, especially among the British, due to the year-round warm climate.

Knysna's other claims to fame are as the end point of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steam railway, and as home to the fabled Knysna forest elephant.