The hotel has a beach, or at least access to one. I'm not aware of the ownership of the beach as at least part of it appears to be public. But the Conrad Pezula maintains a towel and drink station on it. . Perhaps you did not take advantage of the resort bus, covered by the resort fee they charge you, which takes you to Noetzie Beach 5 minutes away at the base of the bluff which Conrad Pezula sits on. You can walk down but it would take longer.

You say that Knysna does not have beaches. I'll agree they are not in the centre of town which is on a shallow inlet but there are ocean beaches on either side of the entrance to the inlet including Brenton Haven which is a superb 5+ kilometre long sandy ocean front beach on the west side of the inlet entrance. These beaches are 5-15 minutes from the centre of town.

Admittedly, it is 2 years since I was at the resort and it's possible it has changed. I'll find out later in the week. But I found the restaurants fine and of good quality charging the sort of prices you would expect in a resort of this quality. I'll give at report after my stay.

I'd agree that Knysna does not sum up South Africa but there are not many places in this beautiful, fascinating and diverse country that do and I wouldn't think it would not make a lot of sense to just come to Conrad Pezula as you might to the equivalent in Bali or the Maldives.

I did probably react to your comment dismissing the clientele as a little pretentious and the sort of people who spend $1000 per night in a game reserve. I honestly think that is unhelpful and is a little unfair on the many who like this place. Rates for the next week are around $250.00 per night which I think is a bargain, particularly as a Diamond. I am not aware of any better hotels in this beautiful area.

As always, we all have different needs and aspirations.