Best things to do in Hermanus
Find out more about those top places in Hermanus
Located just south of Cape Town, Hermanus is best known for one thing: whale watching. As one of the largest towns in the region of Overberg, Hermanus has a workaday feel that belies its spectacular claim to fame. From June to December Walkers Bay, which lies just off the coast of Hermanus, becomes a nursery with one of the world’s largest concentrations of southern right whales. While boat trips can be taken to see the whales up close, locals like to watch nature put on a show from many of the elegant wine bars that have sprouted up along the shoreline for that exact purpose. Beyond the whales, the hills surrounding Hermanus have a variety of hiking trails that offer awe-inspiring views of the Western Cape.
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Whale and Dolphin Watching
Considered one of the best on land whale watching locations on the planet, Hermanus is one of South Africa’s most enchanting destinations. Between June and December vast numbers of southern right whales fill the bay and marine safaris offer the opportunity to get up close to these spectacular sea mammals. What is more, expert whale watching guides provide fascinating information on whale behavior.
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Hermanus Wine and Whale Tour
After exploring Hermanus’ vast offshore calving grounds, why not head inland to the world-famous Hemel-en-Aarde Valley wine region? Tours combining whale watching and wine tasting are highly recommended with many also stopping by the spectacular Betty’s Bay penguin colony.
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Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Perched in the mountains above Hermanus is the breathtaking Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Although small by South African standards, the reserve is perfectly formed with a jaw-dropping array of fynbos, small shrub-like plants with fine leaves, to be discovered. For those interested in the area’s diverse ecology guided tours area available.
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Hermanus Country Market
Open every Saturday, the Hermanus Country Market is one of South Africa’s true gastronomic delights. With produce ranging from the fine wines of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley to homemade pickles and organic herbs, the selection encompasses the best of the country’s burgeoning organic and proudly local food scene.
