Hermanus at a glance
Known for being the official Whale Watching Capital of the World, Hermanus is surrounded by crystal blue beaches, towering mountains and dense amounts Fynbos.
It is a haven for tourists and an ideal location to invest in, furnished with modern infrastructure, trendy shopping malls and high adrenaline adventures.
Hermanus has an array of titles to its name, it has won the Cleanest Town of the Year since 2003, achieved Blue Flag Beach Status and also a Winner of the Town of the Year.
The suburb sits on the panoramic shores of Walker Bay, it is situated just 120 kilometers from Cape Town and connects to the city via the R43 highway and N2 motorway. Hermanus lies 40 km away from Gansbaai, a location where the brave can dive among majestic ocean wildlife such as the Great White Shark.
The town can be said to be a modern metropolis that maintains subtle hints of the past and locals refer to it as “The Village”.
Fernkloof Golf Estate
The only 27-hole golf course in Hermanus, Fernkloof Golf Estate, promises uncompromised luxury with supremely modern finishes. Most homes on the estate are fitted with inhouse gyms, braai areas, swimming pools, solar power, open-plan kitchens and TV/entertainment rooms. It is located in the wider Fernkloof Village, which offers 24/7 security, privacy, low levies and a close proximity to the Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
History- The Fisherman’s Village
Hermanuspietersfontein shortened to Hermanus has a long history dating back to the 1800’s. Hermanus Pieters is recognized as first “discovering” the suburb. He arrived in Cape Town in 1815 as an educator and ventured eastwards to Caledon- a major farming community. He began herding flocks of sheep and cattle and continued venturing through neighbouring towns. He eventually arrived to Hermanus where he found good grazing and fresh water.
Many others then began following him in their search for lush pastures for their livestock. It became an area for farming communities to unwind during summer holidays as well as, the perfect location for fisherman as the waters were teaming with fish.
Since then, the area began to grow and evolve into a permanent settlement. Today, there is a new stairway and walkway that is situated at the exact location where the fresh water waterfall was discovered by Pieters. However, echoes of the past still remain in the form of an historic railway station building without the railway line as the founders of the town decided against laying any tracks. The move came as they wanted Hermanus to maintain its image as a “small fisherman’s village”.
An Adventure Haven
Currently, Hermanus has 30 wineries, over 40 restaurants and an array of activities. For the daring hearts and adventurous souls the area has a plethora of activities ranging from mountain biking routes, paragliding, whale watching, walking trails and walks through vineyards.
Whale-watching
The Southern Right Wales visit Walker Bay every year from July until December. Approximately 60-100 of the majestic animal’s journey from Antarctica to Hermanus to breed and tend to their young. Residents and tourists are regularly privy to these spectacular displays as the whales come within 10 meters of the coast.
Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Hermanus is famous for its diverse floral fynbos kingdom and its hiking and biking trails. The Fernkloof Nature Reserve showcases these splendid natural attractions in fine form. The reserve covers 1800 hectare in the Kleinrivier Mountains- which peaks above the suburb.
It is the first place on earth where so many different species of Fynbos grows in such close proximity- amounting to 1400 to date. Mammals can be spotted in the reserve and these include Grey rhebok, Cape grysbok and 92 different types of bird species; including Rock Jumper and Cape Sugar Bird. Raptors include the Jackal Buzzard and Black Eagle.
The Wine Route
The Hermanus Wine Route R320 is found along Walker Bay and meanders through an area known as the Hemel-en-Aarde Area. The route is strewn with fifteen different wineries, of premium quality grown in small quantities to preserve taste and ensure sustainably managed vineyards. This includes some of the nation’s finest Sauvignon Blancs, Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
The route has many offerings for the whole family, couples and friends- it is not just about wine.
There are incredible gastronomical experiences that await including irresistible cuisines for any palate. Visit the quint Valley Farm Stall or the Hermanuspietersfontein Market. The market is said to be a place where food and wine lovers come together. Guests can choose from a buffet of classic breakfast, savories and freshly shucked oysters, to name a few.
It is a family friendly restaurant that makes for a pleasant and relaxed environment.
For fine dining experience surrounded by vineyards, guests can visit Heaven and The Restaurant at Newton Johnson. There are also tasting rooms available at Bouchard Finlayson, tapas and wine pairing at Creation and, deli platters Sumaridge.
Other restaurants include Moggs Country Cook and in the Wine Village Complex you will find Eat, The Classroom, Feathers Bistro and B’s Steak House.
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking is rapidly becoming one of the most popular sports across South Africa. Routes available in Hermanus promise spectacular views and refreshing mountain air. As a bonus, if you cannot bring your own equipment, local bike shops provide all you need.
Bike routes along the wine routes start at Hemel-en-Aarde Village and take you through river meanders to vineyards where stunning views of Hermanus and Overstrand are awe-inspiring. The Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers mountain biking along a 17 km circular trail which promises an opportunity to surround by natural beauty off the beaten track.
The Hermanus Cycling Club is an information hub- offering all the knowledge enthusiasts need about routes and equipment to ensure and safe and enjoyable experience. Their main purpose is to create a platform for social interaction while being immersed in the wondrous scenery of Hermanus.
Amenities in the area
Shopping Centres
For all your shopping needs Hermanus provides a perfect balance for trendy fashion and high quality necessities. Shopping complexes include: Gateway Shopping Centre, IPIC Shopping Centre and Village Square.
Village Square has been described as “the heart of Hermanus” and caters to the needs and wants of residents and tourists. It is situated closely too many tourist attractions and is home to intimate restaurants. One of Village Square’s main allure points is its open-air waterfront piazza littered with vibrant umbrellas and outside tables. It also converts into a venue to accommodate special events and festivals such as the Whale Festival which transforms the whole area into a celebratory playground.
Schools
The suburb maintains and sustains a high-levels education across all levels of learning consisting pre-primary schools, primary schools, high schools and universities. Some of the learning institutions in the area include:
• Hermanus Primary School
• Bosko Christain School and Play School
• Hermanus High School
Hospitals
For high quality and professional healthcare, Hermanus does not compromise. The health care facilities in the area include, to name a few:
• Hermanus Medi-Clinic
• Hermanus Provincial Hospital
• Hermanus Animal Hospital
Your Partner in Finding an Ideal Hermanus Home
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