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Hermanus

South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Travel Guide

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Beautiful ocean and rocky coast landscape in Hermanus, South Africa

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Overview

Hermanus is generally considered the best land-based whale-watching destination in the world. From June to December, the bay becomes the swimming grounds for a large number of southern right whales. So what might have otherwise just been a small fishing village is today a large, bustling town with an excellent range of accommodation, restaurants and shops.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Creation

    Hermanus

    Best known for its various wine-pairing options, which include a superb brunch pairing (R495) as well as tea pairings (R435) and even a juice pairing for…

  • Old Harbour

    Hermanus

    The harbour clings to the cliffs in front of the town centre and is the hub of Hermanus. You'll find three museums here: the Old Harbour Museum, Whale…

  • Fernkloof Nature Reserve

    Hermanus

    This 15-sq-km reserve is wonderful if you’re interested in fynbos (literally 'fine bush' – shrubby plants with thin leaves). There’s a 60km network of…

  • Old Harbour Museum

    Hermanus

    This museum doesn’t have a lot going for it, but outside there’s a display of old fishing boats and the admission fee includes entrance to the more…

  • Photographic Museum

    Hermanus

    There's a mildly interesting collection of photos from the Hermanus of yore at this small museum. The admission fee is included in the ticket for the Old…

  • Whale House Museum

    Hermanus

    There's lots of info on whales, including daily audiovisual shows. The admission fee is included in the ticket for the Old Harbour Museum and the…

  • Newton Johnson

    Hermanus

    As with other wineries in the region, the pinot noir really shines here. The real star, though, is the superb restaurant (mains R150 to R200), which…

  • Bouchard Finlayson

    Hermanus

    This picturesque winery is best known for its superlative pinot noir. As well as wine tasting, there are gentle walks through fynbos vegetation on the…

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