Whale Watching & More...

There is no shortage of activities in and around Hermanus to keep visitors busy. Most significantly, Hermanus is the best land based whale watching destination in the world. The Southern Right Whales visit our shores from beginning July and return to their feeding grounds by the end of November. Easily spotted from the cliff paths that run along the length of the town, the southern right whales favour the relatively shallow waters of the bay for breeding and mating. Humpback whales and dolphins can also be seen. The Fernkloof Nature Reserve, stretching along the fynbos-covered mountains that form the backdrop to the town, offers well-maintained hiking trails and breathtaking views. These trails provide the opportunity for people of all fitness levels to walk among and appreciate the Western Cape's unique fauna and flora. Exquisite beaches are found along the coastline near the suburbs of Hawston, Vermont, Onrust River, Sandbaai, and Voëlklip. Hawston and Grotto beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status, meaning they comply with international standards regarding beach safety, cleanliness and environmental awareness. Lagoons at Klein River and Onrust River attract all manner of water sports. The beautiful beaches cater for both young and old, swimmers, surfers and body boarders alike. For the adventurous, there are numerous activities such as paragliding, sea and river kayaking, scuba diving, boardsailing, mountain and quad biking. Shark cage diving with the inimitable great white shark provides the ultimate adrenalin rush. Hermanus is also home to one of the most beautiful golf course in the country – this 27-hole course offers splendid views of the sea and mountains. An ideal way to appreciate the areas surrounding Hermanus is by horseback or mountain biking. Explore the abundant fynbos, gallop between the orchards in the Hemel-en-Aarde valley or take it easy with a gentle walk on the mountain. Several acclaimed wines have been produced in the beautiful Hemel-en-Aarde valley recently, and wine lovers can sample some of them by following the Hemel-en-Aarde wine route. Celebrate the good life with our interesting diversity of shops and fine restaurants. Hermanus boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate. Summer is dry and sunny, with extreme heat tempered by sea breezes. Early autumn (March-April) is idyllic, with balmy days and late afternoon sea mists - the so-called Hermanus 'champagne air'. Winter, although the rainy season, has many sunny days and is generally mild, with high winds possible at times.

 

Next >