Hermanus Accommodation
On The Cliff Guest House
Star Graded Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
On The Cliff Guest House offers accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Hermanus Central on the Whale Coast, Western Cape. Situated on the famous cliff paths of Hermanus and is also walking distance to the old harbour in the town's centre. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
House on Westcliff
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
House on Westcliff provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. A stone's throw from the cliff paths overlooking Walker Bay is House on Westcliff. This boutique Bed and Breakfast comprises six... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 303
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
Bayview 303 offers luxury self catering apartment accommodation in Hermanus Central in the Overberg / Whale Coast region, Western Cape. Our seafront apartment is centrally situated between the swimming beaches and the Hermanus town centre. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Nantucket
Room Only / Limited SC Accommodation in Voelklip
Overberg / Whale Coast
Nantucket offers self catering accommodation in Voelklip, Hermanus in the Overberg / Whale Coast region, Western Cape. Experience champagne air, sweeping panoramic ocean and mountain views, majestic meandering mountain walks... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 104
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
Bayview 104 is a spacious self catering apartment situated near the water’s edge in Hermanus, on the Western Cape's Whale Coast and can accommodate 4 guests comfortably and is a stone’s throw away from the water. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Anchor's Rest
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
Anchor's Rest offers the option of bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Hermanus Central in the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Situated in the quaint seaside village of Hermanus, 120Km from Cape Town. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Fig Tree Cottage
Self Catering Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
Fig Tree Cottage offers self catering accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast. situated in the quiet suburb of Eastcliff, away from the hustle and bustle of the Hermanus village centre, yet conveniently close enough to leave your car... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Norfolk Guest House
Room Only / Limited SC Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
Norfolk Guest House offers accommodation on a limited self catering or room-only basis in Hermanus, and is ideally situated within easy walking distance to all the amenities and a stones throw from the cliff path, famous for unforgettable whale viewing. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Brown Jug
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Eastcliff, Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
Brown Jug provides visitors to Hermanus with self catering accommodation. Centrally situated in sought after Eastcliff, a quiet leafy suburb, is a mere two minute stroll to the shops, restaurants and seafront where you can enjoy the famous whale watching. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Pacem
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Voelklip
Overberg / Whale Coast
Pacem offers visitors self catering accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Located in the Hermanus suburb of Voelklip it has a magnificent view on the mountain as well as sea views. Pacem is situated in a quiet area... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Potting Shed Guest House
Star Graded Accommodation in Hermanus
Overberg / Whale Coast
The Potting Shed offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Hermanus Central on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Annamarie and David welcome you to our bed and breakfast accommodation. Enjoy personal service at this owner-run establishment. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sandbaai Country House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Sandbaai
4.5km from Hermanus
Sandbaai Country House offers quality accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Sandbaai, in the Hermanus area in the Overberg / Whale Coast region. Expect the very best at this residence, from luxury bedrooms to quality service and fine cuisine. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
138 Marine Beachfront Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Sandbaai
5km from Hermanus
138 Marine Beachfront Guesthouse provides front-row bed and breakfast accommodation with uninterupted panoramic seaviews in Sandbaai in the Hermanus area. It is a luxurious, upmarket guesthouse with spectacular sea front views. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Marine Drive Manor
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Vermont
7.5km from Hermanus
Marine Drive Manor is a self-catering beach house situated on the beach front in the tranquil, seaside village of Vermont, a mere 10-minute drive from the popular coastal town of Hermanus. Sleeps up to 14 people with additional cottage included. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Lagoon View
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hermanus Lagoon
10.8km from Hermanus
Lagoon View offers self catering accommodation in Hermanus in the Western Cape's Overberg and Whale Coast region. Looking for a quiet self catering getaway with fantastic views. This large stylish home (sleeps 7) overlooks the Hermanus Lagoon and is ideal …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Chalet 10 - Meerensee
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Fisherhaven
14.1km from Hermanus
Chalet 10, Meerensee is a self catering chalet in Fisherhaven, Hermanus area on the Overberg / Whale Coast. Our self catering holiday home is about an hour's drive away from Cape Town International Airport and 6km outside Hermanus on the R43. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sea Star Cliff
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in De Kelders
18.8km from Hermanus
Sea Star Cliff is a luxury lodge providing guest house accommodation in De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast region of the Western Cape. The luxuriously appointed guesthouse was designed and decorated with luxury in mind to create a... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Whale Cove A104
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in De Kelders
18.8km from Hermanus
Whale Cove A104 offers self catering apartment accommodation on the beachfront at De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast region in the Western Cape. Whale Cove A104 (sleeps 6) is a four-star rated, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom luxury apartment. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ganders & Geese
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in De Kelders
19.1km from Hermanus
Looking for a pet-friendly and child friendly getaway to the lovely town of De Kelders just outside Gansbaai? Our fully equipped self-catering house (Sleeps 4, maximum 6 with extra 2 "trundle" beds suitable for children in the lounge). …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Crayfish Lodge Sea & Country Guest House
Guest House Accommodation in De Kelders
19.4km from Hermanus
Crayfish Lodge Sea & Country Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast in the Western Cape. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Hermanus Harbour © Hermanus
The town of Hermanus, famous for its September Whale Festival and frequented by Europeans for at least the last 100 years because of its healing air, lies in the western cove of Walker Bay, sandwiched between impressive sea cliffs and the Olifantsberg. Hermanus has the world's only "whale crier" and between July and December every year, Hermanus is home to a returning group of Southern Right Whales who come here from Antarctica to calf.
A 14 km path along the cliffs at Hermanus has earned the town the reputation of being the best land based whale watching site in the world. The town welcomes the whales every year with a 5 km human chain along this path. But it isn't the whales alone that make Hermanus such an attractive town. The hiking in the area is superb, there is fishing, diving, cycling, fly-fishing, boating, bird-watching, paragliding, golf, riding and a myriad other activities; there are first class restaurants, arts and craft markets and sheer serenity in the beauty of the surrounds.
A terrific choice of accommodation in Hermanus makes it a perfect "base" from which to explore the region. While bed and breakfasts in Hermanus are popular, those wishing to create their own meal itineraries should consider the many options of self catering in Hermanus.
Hermanus, located in the Western Cape of South Africa, is a picturesque coastal town renowned for its whale watching, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene.
Here are 15 things to see and do in and around Hermanus:
1. Whale Watching: Hermanus is famous for land-based whale watching, particularly from June to November. Visit during the annual Whale Festival in September for a celebration of these majestic creatures.
2. Cliff Path: This 12-kilometer scenic trail along the coastline offers breathtaking ocean views, opportunities for whale spotting, and access to secluded beaches.
3. Grotto Beach: A Blue Flag beach known for its clean sand, excellent facilities, and beautiful surroundings. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
4. Fernkloof Nature Reserve: Covering 1,800 hectares, this reserve offers diverse hiking trails through fynbos, with stunning mountain and coastal views and rich biodiversity.
5. Old Harbour Museum: Located in the heart of Hermanus, this museum showcases the town's maritime history, including exhibits on fishing and whaling.
6. Hermanus Wine Route: Explore the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, known for its cool-climate wines. Visit wineries like Hamilton Russell, Creation Wines, and Bouchard Finlayson for tastings and tours.
7. Hermanus Country Market: Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, artisanal foods, crafts, and live music. It's a vibrant place to sample local delicacies and buy souvenirs.
8. Shark Cage Diving: Experience the thrill of shark cage diving in nearby Gansbaai, where you can see great white sharks up close in their natural habitat.
9. Walker Bay Nature Reserve: Ideal for hiking, bird watching, and exploring ancient caves with archaeological significance. The reserve offers pristine coastal scenery.
10. Sea Kayaking: Take a guided sea kayaking tour to explore the coastline of Walker Bay. Paddle through crystal-clear waters and encounter marine life like seals, dolphins, and whales.
11. La Vierge Restaurant: Located in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, this restaurant offers fine dining with spectacular vineyard views. Enjoy gourmet meals paired with local wines.
12. Voelklip Beach: Another beautiful beach in Hermanus, Voelklip is popular for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by stunning landscapes.
13. Hoy's Koppie: A small hill in the center of Hermanus offering panoramic views of the town and coastline. It's an easy hike and a great spot for photography.
14. Hermanuspietersfontein Market: A lively Saturday market offering local wines, fresh produce, artisanal foods, and crafts. It's a great place to enjoy local flavors and culture.
15. Cape Whale Coast: Drive along the scenic coastal route from Hermanus to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa. The journey offers stunning landscapes and charming coastal towns.
These attractions provide a diverse range of experiences, from outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters to cultural exploration and fine dining, making Hermanus a top destination in the Western Cape.
History of Hermanus at a glance:
Hermanus has a rich history that reflects its transformation from a small fishing village to a popular tourist destination. Here's an overview of Hermanus' history:
Early Inhabitants
- Khoisan People: The area around Hermanus was originally inhabited by the Khoisan people, who were hunter-gatherers and pastoralists. They lived off the land and sea, utilizing the rich marine resources.
Founding and Early Development
- Hermanus Pieters: The town was named after Hermanus Pieters, a Dutch teacher and shepherd who discovered the area while searching for grazing land for his sheep. In the early 19th century, he found a freshwater spring and began bringing his flock to the area. Word of the good grazing and fresh water spread, and soon more people settled there.
- Early Settlement: By the mid-1800s, the area, initially known as Hermanuspietersfontein, began to attract fishermen due to its abundant marine life. The town's name was later shortened to Hermanus.
Growth and Development
- Fishing and Whaling: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hermanus grew as a fishing and whaling community. The Old Harbour became the focal point of the town's economy, with fishermen and whalers operating from the harbor.
- Health Resort: Hermanus started gaining a reputation as a health resort in the early 1900s. The fresh sea air and mild climate attracted visitors from inland areas seeking relief from ailments. Hotels and guesthouses began to spring up to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Modern Era
- Whale Watching: In the mid-20th century, Hermanus started to be recognized for its whale-watching opportunities. The southern right whales migrate to the coastal waters of Hermanus to calve and mate from June to November. This natural phenomenon has become a major tourist attraction.
- Conservation Efforts: The establishment of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve in 1957 and other conservation efforts helped preserve the unique flora and fauna of the region, promoting eco-tourism.
- Whale Festival: The first Hermanus Whale Festival was held in 1992, celebrating the return of the southern right whales. This annual event has grown significantly, drawing thousands of visitors and raising awareness about marine conservation.
Present Day
- Tourism Hub: Today, Hermanus is a bustling tourist hub known for its stunning coastline, whale watching, and outdoor activities. The town offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and accommodation, catering to both local and international visitors.
- Cultural and Natural Heritage: Hermanus maintains a balance between development and preserving its cultural and natural heritage. The Old Harbour Museum, art galleries, and local markets reflect the town's rich history and vibrant community.
Hermanus' transformation from a small fishing village to a renowned tourist destination highlights its adaptability and the importance of its natural beauty and marine life in shaping its identity and economy.
- Eastcliff, Hermanus (0.43km)
- Northcliff, Hermanus (1.07km)
- Westcliff, Hermanus (1.72km)
- Voelklip (3.72km)
- Sandbaai (5.06km)
- Hermanus Lagoon (6.65km)
- Onrus (7.01km)
- Vermont (9.01km)
- Fisherhaven (12.73km)
- Mereenbosch (14.77km)
- De Kelders (18.25km)
- Gansbaai (19.60km)
- Stanford (21.14km)
- Kleinbaai (22.57km)
- Van Dyks Bay (22.58km)
- Hermanus Tidal Pool - Hermanus, Whale Coast (0.12km)
- Old Harbour Museum - Hermanus, Whale Coast (0.29km)
- Whale House Museum - Hermanus, Whale Coast (0.30km)
- Hermanus Whale Festival - Hermanus, Whale Coast (0.36km)
- Fick's Pool - Hermanus, Western Cape (0.98km)
- Hermanus Country Market - Hermanus, Whale Coast (1.10km)
- Dreunkrans - Cliff Jumping in Hermanus (1.13km)
- Fernkloof Farmers Market - Hermanus, Garden Route (1.20km)
- Hermanus Golf Club - Hermanus, Whale Coast (1.24km)
- Hermanus Cliff Path - New Harbour to Grotto Beach, Hermanus (2.37km)
- Hermanus New Harbour - Whale Coast, Western Cape (2.48km)
- Langbaai Beach - Hermanus, Whale Coast (2.97km)
- Kammabaai Beach - Hermanus, Whale Coast (3.23km)
- Voelklip Beach - Hermanus, Overberg, Whale Coast (3.41km)
- Cliff Path - Milkwood Forest, Hermanus (3.75km)
- Grotto Beach - Hermanus, Whale Coast (3.95km)
- Fernkloof Nature Reserve - Hermanus, Whale Coast (4.31km)
- Hermanuspietersfontein Boerdery - Hermanus, Whale Coast (4.42km)
- Sandbaai Beach & Coastal Path - Sandbaai, Hermanus (5.15km)
- Onrus Beach - Onrus, Overberg, Whale Coast (6.00km)
- Kalfiefees Hermanus Arts Festival - Hermanus (6.58km)
- Davies' Tidal Pool - Onrus (7.09km)
- Jan Rabie Tidal Pool - Onrus, Western Cape (7.50km)
- Maanschynkop Nature Reserve - nr Hermanus, Whale Coast (9.07km)
- Hoek-van-die-berg Private Nature Reserve - Vermont, Whale Coast (10.17km)
- Walker Bay - Whale Coast, Western Cape (10.22km)
- Walker Bay Nature Reserve - Whale Coast, Western Cape (13.51km)
- Botrivier Lagoon - nr Fisherhaven, Overberg (14.53km)
- Kleinrivier Private Nature Reserve - nr Hermanus, Whale Coast (15.10km)
- Arabella Golf Course - Kleinmond, Western Cape (15.11km)
