Premier Resort The Moorings, Knysna

The setting is a real asset: a large property right by the water, a short drive from Knysna Waterfront, with two restaurants, a spa, pools, a kids club, playgrounds and room service. Shirley, the new general manager, started on the day we arrived and was fantastic. She was doing what she could in a difficult situation, and I’d give her five stars on her own. Our experience with the reception team was very different. They were unwelcoming and unprofessional, especially Buyiswa and another colleague. Nobody showed us to our room or explained breakfast, facilities, activities or checkout, and no porter was offered. We were eventually moved after a room and booking mix-up, thanks to Shirley, since reception had ignored us. The forest-facing standard suite felt dated and needs a major update. Its kitchenette had no cutlery or crockery, and two dresser lights didn’t work. The pool-facing suite looked much better, but the bathroom had no hot water. That was manageable in peak summer, though it needs fixing. In my friends’ room, the ceiling light wouldn’t switch off fully. The Premier is a lovely hidden gem with plenty of potential, but the service during our stay was poor. I’d recommend it if there are visible improvements.