Hermanus
General Information on Hermanus
Hermanus is situated in the heart of the whale route, just 100 km from Cape Town on the Cape Whale Coast of the Western Cape in South Africa. Hermanus has developed from a rustic fishing village into one of the world’s best whale-viewing and tourist destinations.
Hermanus offers visitors magnificent scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops, endless adventure options and a wide selection of restaurants and coffee shops. Visitors from near and far flock to the town to enjoy its many charms while local residents and homeowners savour the privilege of living in this unique region.
The Fernkloof Nature Reserve with over 1600 identified species of indigenous Fynbos has some stunning hikes, a mountain bike trail and a short wheel chair accessible path. Examples of flowers in bloom are on display at the reserve’s centre. Porcupines, baboon, klipspringer, grysbok, genet, mongoose and otter, and over 92 species of birds can been viewed in the reserve.
The secluded, rock-sheltered coves and the long, pristine beaches are perfect for strolling, swimming and surfing. Other outdoor activities include cycling, kayaking, paragliding, scenic chartered plane flights, paint ball, horse riding, quad biking, golf, fly fishing, tree top sliding, scuba diving, canoe river trips, canopy tours, quad biking and horse riding. Hermanus also has facilities for tennis, squash, bowls and fishing. View the activities section for a list of advertisers.
Shopping is a treat with interesting local art, jewellery, pottery and crafts to choose from.
Hermanus is well known as the best land-based whale watching destination in the world. Southern Right whales visit Walker Bay from June through to December and can be viewed from aboard a boat, an airplane or the shore. Hermanus is home to the world’s only Whale Crier who blows his kelp horn when whales are spotted along the coast.
The town hosts an annual whale festival at the end of September, when the Southern Right whales come into the local bay during the mating season. Prior to this main whale festival is the "Kalfiefees" (or "Calf Festival"), to welcome the first whales (usually in August). Both festivals are characterised by food and craft stalls and also attract South African drama productions to the town.
Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options. There is everything from bed and breakfasts, guesthouses and camping to 5 star hotels. The accommodation section provides a list of advertisers.
More information on Hermanus can be found at www.hermanus-info.co.za as well as part of the
SA Info Magazine Range and online.
Hermanus Tourism Office Information | |
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Web address: | https://hermanus-tourism.co.za |
Telephone: | 028 313 8930 / 079 492 1949 |
E-mail: | hermanustourism@overstrand.gov.za |
Address: | Old Station Building C/o Mitchell & Lord Roberts Stre Hermanus |