For some of you, a trip to the Cape would not be complete without a shark or whale sighting.
Located in the heart of the Whale Route and nestled between majestic mountains and sparkling waters, the once sleepy fishing village of Hermanus is now a world famous coastal town and breeding ground for Southern Right Whales. Despite its popularity, the town has managed to maintain its natural beauty, occupying an idyllic seaside position with panoramic views as far as the eye can see. If beaches, wine and whales are on your agenda, we definitely recommend a stopover here.
Situated approximately 120 kilometers southeast of Cape Town makes Hermanus easily accessible for both local and international visitors.
Whale watching season in Hermanus falls between June and December so you might want to bear this in mind if you’re hoping to catch a sighting of these gentle giants. Not only is this area regarded as offering the best land-based whale sightings in South Africa, it is also said to offer the best land-based sightings of whales in the world.
South Africa has become one of the most popular Great White Shark Cage Diving destinations in the world. There are various locations along the coastline that offer this, but one particular site is at Gansbaai, a short drive outside Hermanus and where the Great Whites can be spotted all year round.
Hermanus is not only known for its stunning coastline and whale watching but also for its delectable food and wine scene. Visitors will be delighted with the wide range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries available to satisfy every palate.
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Beaches
Renowned for its breathtaking beaches that offer a unique coastal experience, Hermanus is blessed with a vibrant seaside culture. The beaches offer diverse landscapes, ranging from long sandy stretches to intimate coves, ensuring there is something to suit every preference. The natural beauty, clean waters, and ample outdoor activities such as surfing, swimming, and exploring natural rock pools make Hermanus a must-visit destination for beach lovers.
Food & Wine Tasting
Hermanus is situated in the most phenomenal wine valley, with numerous amounts of wineries and tasting rooms offering up more than 120 award winning wines. Food and wine enthusiasts will find a wealth of experiences to delight their taste buds, from exploring the incredible vineyards to savouring fresh seafood and discovering local artisanal products, the town's food and wine scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Golf
Featuring one of South Africa’s top-ranked golf courses, The Arabella, golf enthusiasts will not be disappointed. The course with its perfect views offers one of the most beautiful backdrops that can be found whilst golfing in the Western Cape - a course that was designed to be played and which loves to be admired.
Shark Dives
When Shark cage diving in Gansbaai, one needs to be prepared to literally come face to face with very big sharks. A typical tour will last between 2 and 4hrs, and will often allow you to see other marine life, for example, copper sharks, whales (during season) penguins, seals and dolphins. The tour will be both thrilling and educational as onboard experts will be able to share their intricate knowledge of these giant and mysterious predators.
Whale Watching
Hermanus is hailed as one of the best places on Earth to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of whales. Every year, From June to December, these majestic creatures can be seen frolicking, breaching, and nurturing their young in the waters just off the shoreline. One of the most exciting aspects of whale watching in Hermanus is the proximity to the whales. From the comfort of coastal paths or designated viewpoints, visitors can witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat, sometimes just a few metres away.
Hermanus Accommodation
Hermanus has such a wide variety of accommodations that nobody should battle to find something to suit their needs and pocket. From owner-run guest houses to quaint B&Bs or boutique hotels and lodges, this gorgeous seaside town has it all. A little advice would be to try and get a room with a view!
Occupying a prominent position in the old harbour area, this hotel offers a multitude of accommodation options. Featuring a blend of historical architecture with classic contemporary, studio apartments and hotel rooms, their units are designed with light modern finishings, providing comfort and luxury to all their guests - the fact that the town’s most popular attractions are all within walking distance is the icing on the cake!
This stylish and contemporary guest lodge offers luxury accommodation on the magnificent oceanfront, a great location for spotting the gentle giants during whale season. The property is tastefully decorated, showcasing South Africa’s fine art on the inside whilst enjoying the unrivalled views and tranquil setting on the outside.
Perfectly situated on the seafront, this luxury boutique guest house is an ideal base to explore Hermanus. The town centre can be accessed along the beautiful cliff path, taking approx 15 minutes on foot and offering gorgeous views across the ocean. The owners will ensure a fabulous stay you will not forget.
