TOURISM NEWS - When most of us think Hermanus, we only think whales. Wrong – because although it is a famous whale-watching destination, which sees foreigners and South Africans flocking here in the winter, this town which hugs the Walker Bay coast in the Overberg region rocks for many reasons.
There’s the sea of course, but it’s got so much more on-the-go – from hikes, to wine farms, to good restaurants, shopping even.
I have a takkie fetish and I don’t need not even one more pair, but in the main shopping drag just off the waterfront in Hermanus, I managed to find a trendy brand I didn’t have from a surf shop and of course I bought them.
There are plenty of bespoke shops to tempt visitors including art galleries.
I first came to know about Hermanus when I worked in Cape Town years ago and locals used to blame Hermanus holiday-home owners for the traffic on a Friday afternoon headed that way, but until then I hadn’t visited.
Well-heeled South Africans have holiday homes here and there are dozens of guesthouses and accommodation establishments to take your pick from.
Unless you have many millions to spend, property prices here have shot through the roof as it’s a very desirable town to live in. The municipality works, the pavements are clean, there’s no sign of urban decay – rather a noticeably well-maintained infrastructure.
Property agents say Hermanus has seen more younger generations of families relocating here and calling it their home.
There are good schools, hospitals and amenities – all the hallmarks of a town that is desirable.
Hermanus Boutique Guest House: A stay to remember
We spent two nights at the Hermanus Boutique Guest House overlooking the sea and it was crazy to see two groups of foreign tourists arrive in the late afternoon, head out for supper and leave after breakfast the next morning, something that happens a lot here, one manager said.
What a waste of all the super things to do here because you really need a few days to do Hermanus justice.
The location of Hermanus Boutique Guest House screams location, location, as it has a prime oceanside position across the road from the scenic coastal path and the famous Fick’s tidal pool cradled between rocks – providing a sheltered and safe place for families and children to swim.
It’s also a central location so that the area can be explored on foot. From our sea-facing patio, from early in the morning until sunset, there are an endless stream of walkers, hot-mommy joggers and cyclists who go by.
The Cliff Path, which you pick up directly opposite Hermanus Boutique Guest House, is a perfect option for a scenic stroll along the coastline, with the path hugging the cliffs for over 10km. This path facilitates walks from the New Harbour all the way to the other end of Hermanus, near the mouth of the Kleinrivier Lagoon.
It’s a vibey and chic place, the décor reflecting the mood here in Hermanus with coastal blues and sunshine yellow, flashes of turquoise, modern and bright.
Read more on Caxton publication, The Citizen
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