Team Idwala, out and about – Hermanus
Hermanus, the once sleepy little fishing/retirement village has become an extremely popular travel hotspot with foreign and South African visitors. Development and increased tourism have however not decreased the charm and natural beauty of this lovely coastal town.
About an hour and a half drive from the city, Hermanus is ideal as an extension of the Cape Town experience. The coastal-road going through Betty’s Bay and Onrus is awe-inspiring experience of beauty at its best. Do yourself a favour and take this route from the city as opposed to the pass through Sir Lowry’s that is often filled with trucks and slow-moving farm vehicles.
Hermanus has long been world renowned as one of the best land-based whale and dolphin-watching sites. This is still very much the case; great sightings of the Southern Right Whale [Eubelena-australis] are extremely common. The famous whale-crier keeps all informed on the whereabouts of the whales. There are however many more reasons to visit Hermanus.
There are many awesome things to keep extreme-sports fans fuelled with adrenaline; hang-gliding or para-gliding from the Kleinriver Mountains, world-class surfing beaches, abseiling, shark-cage diving, deep-sea fishing, spear-fishing, kite-surfing and many other activities for the more adventurous at heart.
Daily sightseeing boat-trips leave from the old harbour and will take you to see whales, seals, penguins, dolphins and maybe even the Great White shark. Seeing the rugged coastline with the mountainous backdrop from the water is a must.
The Fernkloof Nature Reserve in the hills behind the town is filled with many bird and small mammal species. The many nature trails offer epic views of the Hermanus bay and coastline from its elevated position. Hermanus has also become a great place for antique and market-shoppers, so if the weather isn’t playing fair you most definitely won’t be bored. Many top-quality restaurants, antique and "junk shops”, the museum at the old harbour and the under-roof market should provide lots to do.
The truly South African seafood dishes such as perlemoen, crayfish and white mussels are abundant on this coast, so get a licence at the post office, ask some locals for advice and get your own fresh seafood - nothing better.
The Royal Hermanus Golf Club has an excellent, extremely well-kept 18hole course with some of the best views for a golf-course that the Western Cape has to offer. Be warned this course is surrounded by thick fynbos so hit it straight and true or you’ll be buying balls!
Grotto beach is my personal favourite and Hermanus is a place that I enjoy visiting whenever I get the opportunity. As an avid surfer and fisherman, I found Hermanus a top regular holiday destination. My better-half is entertained while I’m patiently waiting for the “big one” or catching the afternoon swell in search of the perfect wave. Great nostalgic memories of my annual summer-trips to “Ouma n Oupas” place in Stanford when holidays where long and time was abundant fill my heart with a great fondness for the whole Overberg region.
For a taste of the Western Cape coastal lifestyle and flavour Hermanus is a must!
While staying in Hermanus, Team Idwala recommends:
Whale View Guest House; Nico, his wife and their great team, offer a romantic and luxurious escape with stunning sea-views. It’s an all-white paradise in a secure setting with little touches that linger with you long after you’ve left. http://www.whaleview.co.za/
Pebble Beach Guest House; Fairway views away from sea breezes gives this guesthouse a different experience to the usual Hermanus offerings. Friendly hosts, well-equipped rooms and great breakfasts. http://www.pebblebeachguesthouse.com/
