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Knysna has derived its name from the Khoi word that means 'place of wood' or 'fern leaves'. Other references to its name include 'straight down' or 'hard to reach', which is said in concern with the steep Knysna Heads. It has twice been voted as the 'favourite town in South Africa'.
Knysna is a part of the Garden Route in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It is located on N2, in proximity with places like George (72 km, east) and Plettenberg Bay (25 km, west).
The landowner, George Rex played a significant role in the development of the town and is considered as the town's founder. Knysna traces its foundation to the year 1882, when the two helmets, Melville and Newheaven were consolidated. It was named after the Knysna River. Knysna is an export hub for timber since 1780s and has a sea port that can accommodate up to 50 ships.
Since the 1870s, the Norwegian Family has played a prominent role in the infrastructural development and expansion of the town. The shipping business and export were expanded by Charles Wilhelm Thesen and his father, Arnt Leonard Thesen. On a number of occasions, Charles Thesen was named as the mayor of the town.
Knysna's indigenous forests extend up to the Tsitsikamma National Park. The town is surrounded by the Outeniqua Mountains on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other.
The warm-water estuary, Knysna River meets the Indian Ocean after passing through two large headlands, which are called 'The Heads'. These headlands are infamous for the number of boats and fishermen lost in their unpredictable water. 'The Map Stones', a geological formation, is also located near these headlands.
Knysna is quite popular for its oysters and other seafood. Tourists consider Knysna as a hot spot for activities, including water sports and other adventures. Art and craft is one of the many things that Knysna has to offer.
The town is a part of the Garden Route, which has a Mediterranean maritime climate. The summers are moderately hot whereas, winters are generally mild with chilly days on certain occasions. Knysna is one of those areas of South Africa, which receives an appreciable amount of rainfall. Throughout the year, Knysna witnesses large number of visitors.
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