Simola Hillclimb, Knysna Speed Festival - Knysna, Garden Route
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Among the modern hyper-cars taking part a Jaguar D-Type shows why it was a "hyper-car" of its time. © Simola Hillclimb
Simola Hillclimb, Knysna Speed Festival - Knysna, Garden Route
The Simola Hillclimb is an iconic motorsport event held annually in Knysna as part of the Knysna Speed Festival. Recognized as one of South Africa’s premier racing events, it draws drivers, car enthusiasts, and spectators from around the country to the picturesque Garden Route. The Hillclimb takes place on a steep, winding route up Simola Hill, challenging drivers to push their vehicles to the limit across a 1.9-kilometer course filled with tight bends, high-speed straights, and sharp corners. With its scenic setting overlooking the Knysna Lagoon and Outeniqua Mountains, the event combines adrenaline with a stunning backdrop.
Launched in 2009, the Simola Hillclimb has grown in popularity, becoming a must-attend for fans of high-performance and vintage vehicles alike. Drivers compete in various categories, from classic cars to cutting-edge supercars, with each aiming to set the fastest time up the hill. Notable features include the Classic Car Friday, where rare and classic vehicles take center stage, and the King of the Hill, the main competition where modern supercars and modified race cars showcase incredible speed and power. The event celebrates automotive history and innovation, appealing to both hardcore racing fans and those looking to enjoy a high-energy, family-friendly event.
With a festive atmosphere, the Knysna Speed Festival also includes entertainment, food stalls, and live music, making it a fun-filled weekend for all ages. For spectators, it’s a rare opportunity to get up close to the cars and drivers and witness impressive feats of engineering and skill. The Hillclimb has become a beloved tradition that not only enhances Knysna’s tourism appeal but also celebrates South Africa’s vibrant motorsport culture.
FAQs
Where is the Simola Hill? It is just off the N2 on the George side of Knysna up Old Cape / Salt River Roads.
How do I get there and where do I park? Follow the signs from entrances to Knysna. We have ample parking for thousands of visitors. There is no charge for parking. The general parking is on the opposite side of the course and requires at least a 5 minute walk to get to the spectator points. VIP parking will be colour coded and signposted accordingly.
Where can I buy tickets? General Admission tickets are available during the weekend of the Hillclimb at the gate only.
Is food and drink available? Yes.
What type of food and drinks can one expect to buy? There are a variety of vendors on site selling hamburgers, boerie rolls, chips, chicken schnitzel rolls, beer, water, fizzy drinks, energy drinks, etc. A sit down restaurant is available at the Simola Hotel.
How many food court areas are there? Two - Gasoline Alley & Pit Stop. The food variety at each might vary.
Can I bring my own alcohol? No, unfortunately not. The liquor licensing regulations prevent us from allowing you to bring your own alcohol onto the premises.
Can I bring chairs and umbrellas? Yes. If not chairs you can bring a blanket or type of ground sheet to sit on.
Is there a disabled viewing deck? Yes. It is a specially constructed deck offering good viewing of the track. It is located between corners 3 and 4 with parking at site.
Is there a programme that one can buy? Yes. It will be available at ticket points and info kiosks.
How can I hear the action? We have a public address system along the entire course.
Should I bring ear protection? It is not essential, but recommended for sensitive ears.
What are the medical facilities? We will have paramedics on site.
Are there ATM banking facilities on site? Yes. There will be one at Gasoline Alley
Contact details for the Knysna Speed Festival:
Tel: +27 (0)44 382 7500
Address: Office 110, Thesen House, 6 Long Street, Knysna
Email: see website
Website: https://www.speedfestival.co.za/
Accommodation Near Simola Hillclimb, Knysna Speed Festival - Knysna, Garden Route
36 Ridge Dr Knysna
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Knysna
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Salt River Lodge
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Lagoon Lodge
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Lagoon Breeze Guest House
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Oyster Creek Lodge
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Oniro on Thesen
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B My Guest
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Knysna
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Cliffhanger Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Knysna
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Papillon Bleu
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- Simola Golf and Country Estate (1.20km)
- Knysna Heights (1.38km)
- Heuwelkruin, Knysna (1.61km)
- Paradise (Knysna) (1.85km)
- Kanonkop (Knysna) (1.93km)
- Westhill (Knysna) (2.06km)
- Knysna (2.39km)
- Knysna Central (3.09km)
- Flenters, Knysna (3.57km)
- Costa Sarda, Knysna (3.67km)
- Thesen Island - Knysna (4.12km)
- Belvidere Estate, Knysna (4.19km)
- Brenton, Knysna (4.27km)
- Old Place (Knysna) (4.70km)
- Brenton-on-Sea (5.55km)
- Simola Golf & Country Estate - Knysna, Garden Route (1.60km)
- Pledge Nature Reserve - Knysna, Garden Route (2.20km)
- The Waterfront Knysna Quays - Knysna, Garden Route (2.90km)
- Knysna National Lake Area - Knysna, Garden Route (4.35km)
- Knysna Lagoon - Knysna, Garden Route (4.46km)
- Knysna Golf Club - Knysna, Garden Route (6.10km)
- Featherbed Private Nature Reserve - Knysna, Garden Route (7.01km)
- Knysna Heads - Knysna, Garden Route (7.02km)
- Pezula Golf Club & Championship Course - Knysna, Garden Route (8.07km)
- Goukamma Nature Reserve - Buffels Bay, Garden Route (11.25km)
- Homtini Pass - between George and Knysna, Garden Route (12.91km)
- Prince Alfred's Pass - Garden Route, Western Cape (13.98km)
- Groenvlei Lake - Sedgefield, Garden Route (17.52km)
