Enjoy Hermanus!

Hermanus is situated on the Western Cape southern coastline between Kleinmond and Stanford and is a very popular destination for locals and international travellers alike. Hermanus is also on the way to Gansbaai which is the destination for the best Shark Cage Diving in South Africa.

Brief History

Hermanus was given municipal status in 1904, but the first farmer to settle in the area was Hermanus Pieter's in the early 1800's. The town was first called Hermanuspietersfontein, but later shortened to Hermanus. Although Hermanus Pieter's was a sheep farmer, it was the abundance of fish in the area that attracted fishermen and their families to settle here. To this day, Hermanus is still a renowned fishing village.

Whale Season

One of the most popular times of year to visit Hermanus is during whale calfing season which is during the months of September and October. The bay is filled with Southern Right Whales that have migrated north from the icy waters of the Antarctic to mate, calf and rear their young. Whales can be seen interacting with each other in the bay's around the area. Whales are said to communicate by means of sonar, similar to dolphins. They also make clicking, whistling and grunting sounds which can be heard for km's under water. Further communication between these mammals is thought to be by breaching and lobtailing (slamming their tails on the surface of the water)

Accommodation

There is plenty of self catering accommodation in Hermanus, suitable for both long lazy stays and weekend getaways. Self catering holiday accommodation is a popular choice and relatively easy to come by. Please give us a ring on +27 (0)21 438 6441 if you require assistance. Alternatively, fill out an enquiry form and we'll get back to you!

Other Activities

Hermanus Beaches

The beaches in Hermanus are a sunworshipper's dream. There are many small bays to choose from, the more popular being Grotto Bay which is a long white sandy stretch of beach, spanning km's, which was given the very prestigious Blue Flag status in November 2002 for it's pristine cleanliness.

Wine Tasting

The cool breeze from the sea and the ideal soil conditions in the Hemel and Aarde Valley make the perfect conditions for excellent wine making. Enjoy a day tasting and purchasing some of the best wines in the country! A couple of well recommended wine farms in the Hemel and Aarde Vally are:

Diving

There are various dive sites and reefs which can be explored by divers. There is a diving school at the New Harbour which offers equipment hire, training and charters.

Horse Riding

There are some fantastic horse riding trails in and around Hermanus, both in the mountains and along the beach. Pack a picnic and spend the day on horseback!

Annual Events in Hermanus

April

Stanford / Hermanus Canoe Race

June

First whales arrive in Hermanus

August

Whales seen almost daily in Walker Bay

September

Whale Festival
Fernkloof Wild Flower Show
Spring Surf Festival

October

Walker Bay Golf Classic
Best Whale watching time

November

Whales start leaving Walker Bay

December

Carol's by candlelight
Child Welfare Christmas Ligths switch-on Ceremony